FAMAGUSTA, Cyprus (AP) – Greek and Turkish Cypriot politicians on Wednesday pledged to preserve Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage after hailing the restoration of a 14th century seaside garrison that is the fictional setting of Shakespeare’s play “Othello.”
The promise came amid renewed hopes that the east Mediterranean island nation’s ethnic divisions can be healed.
Seizing on the strong positive vibe from peace talks that resumed last month after months of stalemate, politicians from both sides of the divide inspected the completed restoration work of the Othello Tower and Citadel during a visit to the sandstone structure in the city of Famagusta. It reopens next month.
“Restoration of this monument is proof that when Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots cooperate, we can create miracles,” said Christos Christofides, from the Greek Cypriot left-wing AKEL party. “We need a solution like the desert needs water.”
Turkish Cypriot Turfan Erhurman from the left-wing CTP party said that culture should rise above politics to bind the two communities, which until a decade ago had virtually no contact with each other.