Meral Akinci and Andri Anastasiades attend a bicommunal concert by young musicians 

First Lady Meral Akıncı and the spouse of the Greek Cypriot leader Andri Anastasiades attended on Thursday evening a concert by young musicians from both sides in Cyprus, at Pallas theatre in Nicosia, and both expressed their support to efforts for a solution that would reunite Cyprus.Soloist at the concert was Wolfgang Schroeder, violin, and Artistic Director George Kountouris.

Meral Akinci said that women are part of the population and have the need for opportunities to put all their power, knowledge and enthusiasm to solve the Cyprus problem. Akinci thanked the Bicommunal Technical Committee on Culture for the concert, which was under its auspices, as well as the young musicians.

“It is a great pleasure to be here in this concert with Meral,” said Andri Anastasiadis, adding that “this is one of many steps that prompt us together to find a solution to the Cyprus problem.” I believe that women can do a lot and that we are part of the solution to our problem. My wish is to have a solution to the problem this year, “she added.

On her part, in his address Co-President of the Bicommunal Technical Committee Kani Kanol said “we fully understand the role of art and artists and particularly young artists in creating a free, independent, democratic and bright equal future.” He welcomed with great enthusiasm the effort made by young musicians from the two communities who have worked together.

In her address, Co-President of the Bicommunal Technical Committee Androulla Vasiliou said “we want to hope that the solution to the Cyprus problem and the reunification of our island is not far.” However, she added, for the eventual solution to be consolidated and stand the test of time, political will and cooperation from the political leaders will not suffice. “We will need to already create the proper climate between our people. Us all, and especially younger people, will need to believe in the solution and the peaceful coexistence, as well as the cooperation between the two communities. We must believe that, together, we will be able to work towards and create our mutual future, in our mutual homeland, Cyprus”, she said.

UN special adviser to Secretary-General for Cyprus, Espen Barth Eide, also attended the concert.