Background

The Mediterranean Island of Cyprus has been dominated by diverse civilizations for more than 2,000 years and only gained true independence in 1960. Cyprus as a place of tolerance, coexistence and diversity could be a symbol of hope for the Balkans, the Middle East and beyond. If coexistence is achievable in Cyprus, the prospects for peace where conflicts are even more intractable may seem within reach.

The main objective of this program is to begin preparing Cypriot youth for mutual understanding and cooperation, so they can help lead the two communities to live side by side in an open society. The challenge is to prepare these children for the time when a political settlement is achieved and peaceful coexistence is essential. As future leaders, they must learn to respect each other's cultures and explore what they can share. Creating positive images of each other can help promote future coexistence.

For the three-week long Cyprus program, 10 Greek-Cypriot and 10 Turkish-Cypriot youth ages 14 and 15, who have grown up on opposite sides of the "Green Line" dividing the island, came together in Washington, D.C. Participants were selected based on their interest in the arts so that they youth shared a common bond. Washington, D.C. was an ideal venue because the area offers participants an excellent opportunity to experience a variety of cultures and observe diversity in action. The program will underscore the leadership role of our nation�s capital at a critical time when our country and the world face dangers and threats that cloud the future of all children.