President Ersin Tatar participated in the 19th Orchid Walk that was organised by the Cancer Research Foundation (KAV) where more than 800 people took part in the event.

The President took part in the walk that started from Bufanevto Junction and routed 9km in the Five Finger Mountains to the finishing point at Taşkent Picnic area, which was this year attended by about 800 people.   Sponsored by Telsim, the event was co-organised by the CENGO-V foundation.

President Ersin Tatar, speaking at the event, underlined the importance of living healthy lives and raising awareness on cancer, and he commended the work of KAV volunteers and its Turkish Cypriot founder, Mustafa Djamgöz, Professor of Cancer Biology at Imperial College London and Chairman of the College of Medicine’s Science Council.

President Tatar stated: “I am delighted to be present at the 19th Orchid Walk and being able to walk side-by-side with hundreds of people which not only raise awareness on issues related to cancer, but also sends out the clear message to our public that highlights the importance of maintaining healthier lifestyles, and indeed appreciating nature and the environment.

“Protecting our health passes through the protection of our environment. We need to be careful as individuals and as a whole, to protect our environment from pollution of all kinds, and to aspire to live healthier lifestyles – albeit from healthier foods to exercising daily.”

The President said that cancer also existed in the TRNC, as it does so in every part of the world, and he underlined the “importance of raising awareness through different campaigns and for people to be aware about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, particularly on cancer. The State will continue to support people on diagnosis and treatment”.

“The importance of maintaining good health has been reminded to us during the pandemic. I believe with all my heart that we will reach much healthier and happier days as our people are fully aware that it is necessary to protect the environment if we want good health and measures that must be taken by the State,” the President added.

The President commended Professor Djamgöz, stating: “[He] is the pride of the Turkish Cypriot people. His exemplary work has become recognised globally. . .with the passing of this pandemic period, I hope that these beautiful organisations will continue.”  
“I wish our people healthy and peaceful days.”

Prof Djamgöz said that more than 1,500 tickets had been sold for the event this year and he expressed his gratitude to the more than 800 people who took part in the event.

KAV has been holding the annual Orchid Walk since 2003 that is aimed at raising funds for the foundation and raising awareness on cancer.