Every year on 29 May, the United Nations commemorates the International Day of Peacekeepers to pay tribute to the women and men who serve and have served as civilian, military, or police in UN peacekeeping operations.

This year, as we mark 60 years since the establishment of UNFICYP and the Secretary-General’s Good Offices mandate, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Cyprus and Head of UNFICYP, Colin Stewart, hosted a ceremony in front of the monument outside Ledra Palace Hotel to commemorate the efforts of all peacekeepers who served for peace on the island.

Relaying to the audience the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres's remarks, Stewart emphasized: "Day in and day out, at great personal risk, these women and men bravely work in some of the most dangerous and unstable places on earth to protect civilians, uphold human rights, support elections and strengthen institutions. They are part of a long tradition. For 76 years, United Nations peacekeepers have supported communities rocked by conflict and upheaval across 71 missions."

On this day, and every day, we commend their professionalism and dedication and honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.