War in Ukraine must come to an end, President tells Peace Summit (video)

The war in Ukraine must come to an end, President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides said during his intervention at the International Conference for Peace in Ukraine, that took place in Switzerland, noting that illegality stemming from invasion, occupation and the use of force will never be tolerated or recognised.

"We are all here today to reiterate once again that Ukraine is not alone. This broad participation of leaders reflects our strong commitment for lasting peace in Ukraine. For lasting peace in the European continent, in a time where the perception that 'peace is a given has crumbled," he said, speaking on 16 June.

The President noted that "our presence here today aims also to highlight the great respect of the international community towards the heroic, brave and resilient Ukrainians. Today, we all actively and collectively substantiate that our solidarity and support to both Ukraine and its people, as well as towards establishing a just and sustainable peace remains solid, far-reaching and unified".

President Christodoulides said that Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine has caused unthinkable consequences for the country and immeasurable loss to its people and has also led to devastating regional and global repercussions.

"Russia’s actions have endangered food security for millions of people across the globe. It is therefore crucially important to keep shipping channels open so that Ukraine exports its products, making it adamantly clear that food security must in no way be weaponised," he pointed out.

An additional tragic humanitarian aspect of this war, he went on to say, are the captives, prisoners of war and the Ukrainian children, forcibly deported to Russia.

"A generation of Ukrainian children has experienced fear, loss, tragedy, violence, both physical and psychological, for more than two years. Today, we reiterate our determination and persistence to act as catalysts for their safe return to their families," he stressed.

This war must come to an end, the Cypriot President underlined, adding that illegality stemming from invasion, occupation and the use of force will never be tolerated or recognised.

"We remain at Ukraine’s side, assisting all just efforts for a lasting peace in the country. At the same time, our respect for the inviolability of borders, the territorial integrity and independence of all states is unconditional for all nations across the world," he noted.

Concluding, the President expressed hope that the Summit will pave the way for a meaningful dialogue, on a results-oriented platform, that will eventually set a path towards a comprehensive peace based on international law and the core principles of the UN Charter.

(Source: CNA)