New UN chief arrives in Cyprus

By Murat Demirci

LEFKOSA, Northern Cyprus (AA) – The new head of the United Nations’ peacekeeping force in Cyprus arrived on the island on Monday.

Elizabeth Spehar, who was appointed to the role on 30 March, will be the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative and Chief of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).

According to a UN statement, Spehar takes over from her predecessor Lisa Buttenheim who spent six years in the role.

"Having previously served as interim Head of Mission in 2008, I am honored and grateful to have this opportunity to return to Cyprus at such an important time during the UN-facilitated peace talks," Spehar, a Canadian national, said.

She said she looked forward to continuing the work of the UN in Cyprus for the benefit of all Cypriots.

"I hope to forge strong working relationships with all stakeholders over the coming months," she added.

- Anadolu Agency correspondent Servet Gunerigok contributed to this report