Nicosia mayors withdraw from Cyprus Forum

The Cyprus Forum has announced the withdrawal of both the Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos, and the mayor of occupied Nicosia, Mehmet Harmanci, from this year’s event.

The decision follows a dispute regarding a title used in a non-final agenda posted on the Forum’s website, which was deemed unacceptable by the Greek Cypriot side. After the organizers attempted to resolve the issue by using a title consistent with recent meetings between the two leaders, Mehmet Harmanci sent a letter withdrawing from the ceremony. Charalambos Prountzos subsequently withdrew in a show of solidarity.

The Cyprus Forum stated it respects both decisions and remains committed to encouraging dialogue between the two communities. Despite the withdrawals, the Peace and Democracy Award will still be presented to one Greek Cypriot and one Turkish Cypriot recipient, with the posthumous awards being delivered to their representatives.