The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Cyprus and Head of UNFICYP, Ms. Elizabeth Spehar, on 21 October presided over a Medal Presentation ceremony for United Nations Police in Cyprus.

Held at the UN Protected Area within the buffer zone, the event saw 31 UNPOL officers from seven contingents awarded medals in the service of peace. Speaking at the event, SRSG Spehar noted that the United Nations Police had been an integral part of UNFICYP since it began operations in 1964, playing a significant role in the efforts of the United Nations in Cyprus, particularly in the maintenance and restoration of law and order in the buffer zone.

SRSG Spehar also expressed her appreciation for the work of UNFICYP’s Senior Police Adviser, Col. Andrii Sachavo of the Ukraine, for his leadership and excellent cooperation within the mission.

Following opening remarks by Chief Superintendent Ionut Jordache, the national anthems of the medal recipients were played, followed by speeches from Col. Sachavo, who praised the work of the UNPOL medal recipients, and SRSG Spehar, who later presented the medals on behalf of the UN Secretary-General.

The event was followed by a lively reception at the UNPOL Club.