Diagne stresses cooperation and dialogue at UN Open Day in Nicosia

Nicosia, Cyprus. Cooperation, dialogue and a common commitment to the public good are essential for durable progress, Khassim Diagne said at Saturday’s United Nations Open Day. The UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Cyprus and head of Unficyp addressed visitors outside the Ledra Palace at an event marking the organisation’s 81st anniversary.

Cooperation across communities

Diagne said a message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had special relevance to Cyprus, where cooperation among communities remained vital to building mutual understanding and trust.

He said people were working across divisions each day to strengthen their communities, foster trust and make lives better. He linked that cooperation to the event’s theme, “Cyprus and the United Nations: Partnering for Peace and Progress”.

Diagne expressed thanks to the UN agencies, civil society organisations, schools, youth groups, community associations and volunteers that helped with the event. He also acknowledged support from the Stelios Haji-Ioannou Foundation.

Guterres calls for renewed international commitment

Delivering Guterres’ message, Diagne conveyed the Secretary-General’s appeal for a fresh international commitment to peace, human rights and cooperation through multilateral institutions.

“On United Nations Day, we celebrate not only an organisation, but an idea: that humanity’s future depends on our ability to work together to advance peace, development and human rights,” Guterres said in his message.

Guterres outlined the organisation’s efforts during its 81 years, including diplomatic and international legal approaches to settling disputes, action against poverty, the defence of human rights and humanitarian support for those affected by displacement, disasters and conflict.

He also cautioned that mounting global challenges included armed conflict, a changing climate, increasing inequality and fast-evolving technologies.

Hundreds visit afternoon event

The Open Day drew hundreds of people on Saturday afternoon. Visitors could explore the UN’s work in Cyprus and speak with representatives from organisations active throughout the island.