Press Releases

We have gathered here today, on the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of the creation of UNFICYP, to pay tribute to those that have lost their lives while serving in Cyprus and through them, to the troop contributing countries. 

Sixty years ago, the United Nations (UN) Security Council adopted Resolution 186, which authorised the establishment of the Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus.

UNFICYP was tasked with a mandate to preserve “international peace and security, to use its best efforts to prevent a recurrence of fighting and, as necessary, to contribute to the maintenance and restoration of law and order, and a return to normal conditions.” 

That mandate has been carried out with commitment and at high cost. 

Today, we solemnly lay a wreath at this monument, erected to commemorate the sacrifice of three Austrian peacekeepers, First Lieutenant Johann Izay, Master Seargeant Paul Decombe and Corporal August Isaak, who lost their lives on August 14, 1974, when their white Jeep carrying the UN flag was hit in an air attack during the second phase of the Turkish invasion.

Indeed, many UNFICYP soldiers were killed during that time, when their positions came under fire and in defence of what is now the UNFICYP Headquarters in Nicosia Airport.

The Government and the people of the Republic of Cyprus are deeply indebted to the people that lost their lives during their service in Cyprus, and equally to their families and their countries.

We are grateful to the United Nations for 60 years of service in the name of peace in Cyprus, to the 43 troop and police contributing countries, and the 150,000 men and women in uniform that have served with UNFICYP over the years.

In its sixty-year history, UNFICYP has played an invaluable role.  Its presence is required until a lasting settlement is reached, ending foreign occupation and reuniting the island and its people.

We remain appreciative and we thank you for your service.

(MF/EP)