On 26 August, 41 Slovak peacekeepers from Sector Four were awarded for their contributions to the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. The event took place in their headquarters, in Famagusta.

UNFICYP’s Force Commander, Major General Cheryl Pearce, presided the ceremony and in her remarks expressed appreciation to the men and women for their commitment to peace in Cyprus, especially during this challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Your contributions have been essential to maintaining calm and security in the buffer zone and in supporting the Mission. You have been a part of this Mission during unprecedented times with the coronavirus pandemic creating great challenges for all of us,” she stated.

A total of 190 peacekeepers from Slovakia are deployed to UNFICYP and are based in Sector Four, including 23 women. The contingent’s largest base is at Camp General Stefanik, located Famagusta. In addition, Slovaks are also responsible for several patrol bases and observation posts in the area within the eastern section of the buffer zone.

The Slovak contingent in Sector Four is working to ensure the effective implementation of UNFICYP's mandate in the area and it has been supporting the Mission’s efforts to achieve lasting peace in Cyprus.