October 5, 2001

Cypriot women from all walks of life and of different political shades held a silent candle vigil tonight to condemn the recent terrorist attacks in the US and express their support and solidarity with the families of the victims.

"A candle and a flower" was the name women gave their protest against violence and terrorism, which began with a church service officiated by the primate of the Church of Cyprus Archbishop Chrysostomos. Present at today's vigil were First Lady Irini Clerides, deputies, wives and relatives of missing persons since the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and many other Cypriot women.

The women called for peace and justice for the entire world and reminded the international community that Cyprus continues to suffer as a result of the division and Turkey's occupation of its northern areas.

"We condemn the recent terrorist attack against thousands of innocent people in the US, this was an attack not only against America but also against the whole of humanity," a declaration, adopted by the women today, said.

It noted that Cypriot women feel and understand fully the drama of the families of thousands of dead and missing "as we have been living through the same experience since the 1974 Turkish invasion."

"We invite all world leaders to stand united and work to secure peace and justice for everyone," it added.

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