Minister Fantino honours international reputation of Canada's modern-day Veterans
Reference N14022E
March 14, 2014 – Nicosia, Cyprus – Department of Veterans Affairs
This week, Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and a delegation of 10 Canadian Veterans are participating in commemorative ceremonies in Cyprus in recognition of Canada's work to support peace and stability in the Mediterranean nation. The year 2014 marks the 50th anniversary of the beginning of Canadian efforts in Cyprus. The visit supports efforts to bring about a greater understanding of the achievements of Canada's modern-day Veterans.
Events include the launch of "Canada House in Cyprus," at the Hall of Peace; a Canadian War Museum exhibition on display at the Famagusta Gate Cultural Centre; a rededication of the Canadian Peacekeeping Monument at the United Nations Buffer Zone in Nicosia; a United Nations reception for peacekeepers past and present; and a visit to the Dhekelia Cemetery (British War Graves) where nine fallen Canadian personnel now rest.
While in Cyprus, the delegation will have the opportunity to greet one of the last rotations of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel returning from Afghanistan to take part in decompression in Cyprus.
Following his time with the delegation in Cyprus, Minister Fantino will go to Israel to meet with representatives of the Israeli government in an effort to learn from their work to support injured military members. The Minister’s visit will include a site visit of a state-of-the-art Beit Halochem Tel Aviv facility, one of the several locations in a nation-wide network of centres designed to support Israeli war Veterans and their families.
