General Assembly Session 54 meeting 63

Mr. Zackheos (Cyprus)

I would like, at the outset, to express my pleasure at the great number of countries that joined in sponsoring the present draft resolution, which shows the importance that the international community places on the Olympic ideal.

The great challenge now is to take the first practical steps towards turning into reality the observance of the Olympic Truce during the Summer and Winter Olympics, starting with next year's Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. The Olympic Truce is an expression of the yearning of mankind for peace, understanding and reconciliation and for the noble notion of distinction based on honest competition. In the search for excellence every athlete is equal, and victory is the result of ability, training, hard work and perseverance. Discrimination with regard to a country or a person on grounds of race, religion, politics, sex or other characteristic is incompatible with the Olympic spirit.

It is important to strengthen adherence to Olympic ethics, especially the need to conduct the Games in a fair way. In this context, the efforts against the use of prohibited anabolic and other drugs are to be commended.

Cyprus, a small country, has since its independence followed an active foreign policy based on the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, which coincide with and fully adhere to the Olympic ideals. The latest manifestation of our determination to become a bridge of peace in our sensitive region in the eastern Mediterranean and a homeland of harmony and understanding for all communities living on the island is the proposal of President Clerides for the demilitarization of Cyprus. On this solemn occasion, we renew our appeal for the acceptance of this proposal, so that Cyprus will be able to participate in the next Olympics as a reunited and peaceful State.

The people of Cyprus felt immense satisfaction over the decision of the International Olympic Committee concerning the hosting of the Olympic Games in Greece in 2004, the birthplace of the Olympic Movement. We interpret this decision as an appeal for a new beginning and as an expression of the collective will of mankind to make the twenty-first century a period of serious efforts for peace and the advancement of social progress and prosperity.

The twentieth century, which is approaching its end, has seen two world wars, ideological antagonisms, regional and local conflicts and the policy of ethnic cleansing. It is hoped that human rights and the respect of international law will be the norm of the day in the new millennium.

I would like, in conclusion, to express our appreciation for the great efforts of the International Olympic Committee in imbuing youth with these ideals, which is a guarantee of a better and more humane world.