The UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Cyprus and UNFICYP Head of Mission Colin Stewart visited the Cyprus Foundations Authority and received information about the institution’s work. During this important visit, which was also attended by the Foundations Authority Director General Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tümer and the Head of Religious Affairs Hakan Moral, the issues of protecting the multicultural and multifaith structure of Cyprus, maintaining religious structures with mutual understanding and building trust between the two peoples were discussed.

During the meetings held as part of the visit, the Cyprus Foundations Authority’s multifaceted foundation tradition from the past to the present, comprehensive restoration work aimed at protecting cultural heritage and steps taken to present this heritage equally to all communities were conveyed in detail. Stewart stated that he particularly welcomed the inclusive approach taken towards the protection of foundation works belonging to different faiths and communities.

Visits to the Hala Sultan Tekke in Larnaca Were on the Agenda

Prof. Dr. During the meeting, Mustafa Tümer emphasized that the number of visits to the Hala Sultan Tekke in Larnaca, which Turkish Cypriots can only make three times a year, should be increased. Noting that these visits have great symbolic importance in terms of freedom of belief and mutual understanding, Tümer also stated that the long waiting times at the crossing points should be eliminated.

He also drew attention to the fact that group visits are organized to over 100 different churches from Southern Cyprus to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus every year, and stated that this practice should be expanded to Turkish Cypriots in a similar manner within the framework of the principle of mutual understanding and equality. Tümer also drew attention to the increasing Muslim population living in Southern Cyprus, and emphasized that other mosques should be opened for worship in this direction.

Stewart: “An Exemplary Model for Social Dialogue and Respect”

Speaking during the visit, UN Representative Colin Stewart stated that the activities carried out by the Cyprus Foundations Administration are not limited to the repair of physical structures, but also build dialogue, mutual respect and tolerance among peoples. Stewart said, “The work carried out by the Cyprus Foundations Administration not only builds historical structures but also dialogue and mutual respect between peoples. This approach sets an important example on the path to permanent peace on the island.”

“Protecting the Heritage is a Responsibility to the Future”

Vakıflar İdaresi General Manager Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tümer expressed his satisfaction with Colin Stewart’s visit and stated that the foundation culture is a common value that belongs not only to the Muslim community but to all of humanity. Tümer said, “This heritage is not just a reflection of the past; it is also a responsibility that must be carried into the future for peace, solidarity and humanity.”

Emphasis on Peace and Empathy from Religious Affairs Director Moral

Religious Affairs Director Hakan Moral stated in his assessment that the protection of religious structures and ensuring access to these structures by the relevant public serves to strengthen trust. Moral said, “For faiths to exist in peace, mutual respect, empathy and embracing common values ​​are essential. This is only possible through well-intentioned dialogue.”

Shared Heritage, Shared Future

This visit by Colin Stewart to the Cyprus Foundations Administration once again revealed how important cultural understanding, mutual respect and embracing a common heritage are for sustainable peace on the island. The meeting opened the door to a new process that will contribute to the deepening of constructive dialogues in religious and cultural areas.