By Vibhu Mishra
After nearly three decades on the frontlines of UN’s peace operations – from Timor-Leste’s turbulent independence referendum to Western Sahara’s protracted ceasefire and Cyprus’ frozen conflict – Colin Stewart is leaving the Organization with his faith in it intact.
“I started feeling very idealistic about the UN, and I’ve never lost that feeling,” Mr. Stewart told UN News in an exclusive interview.
In early August, he steps down as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
His departure comes at a moment of cautious optimism on the island. Just last week, the Secretary-General reported that talks between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders were “constructive”, with “common understanding” on new initiatives.
Mr. Stewart called the talks “an important step” in maintaining momentum.
“We are at a bit of a challenging moment for Cyprus because of upcoming elections in the north and other dynamics,” he explained. “The intent was to keep the ball rolling and keep the momentum going, and I think that succeeded.”
Continue reading the story at UN News.