Young people’s voices are vitally important, not just as the leaders of tomorrow but as citizens of today, Ben Rawlings, British Deputy High Commissioner, has said adding ‘Cyprus has a complex and challenging history.’ According to a press release by the British High Commission, Rawlings was addressing an intercommunal student camp organized by Cyprus Friendship Programme. The British High Commission and the French Embassy supported the camp. The British diplomat described the Cyprus Friendship Programme as ‘a hugely valuable initiative bringing young people together from across the island to address this difficult history and imagine a brighter future.’ The camp took place in the Turkish-occupied Maronite community for the first time and students followed trainings on the island’s two main languages, Greek and Turkish, the release said, adding they also attended interactive workshops on addressing stereotypes and developing a better understanding on diversity and identity. ‘The history of Cyprus and dealing with its controversies was one of the most interesting parts of the camp, with sessions including personal reflections from relatives of missing persons,’ the Commission added. Students visited sites of ancient and cultural heritage, like Soloi and the Skouriotissa mine. They were also given a brief history of negotiations on the Cyprus issue and were called to imagine the future of Cyprus. Furthermore, several documentaries on the history of Cyprus were screened during the camp, while music and drama workshops were also offered. Lastly, participants were introduced to the history and culture of the Maronite community. A second camp is taking place in Troodos this week. CFP’s summer camps aim to promote friendship between the Greek and Turkish speaking teens, learning the history of Cyprus from both sides of the divide and develop leadership skills. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

Source: Cyprus News Agency