Britains Queen Elizabeth II said reconciliation in Northern Ireland cannot be taken for granted in a statement marking the centenary of when a partition was created between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
The anniversary comes at a time of political turmoil for Northern Ireland. Elizabeth said the date reminds us of our complex historyand provides an opportunity to reflect on our togetherness and our diversity.
She added that the establishedpeace between Northern Ireland and the Republic should be credited to political leaders and its citizens, on whose shoulders the future rests.
It is clear that reconciliation, equality and mutual understanding cannot be taken for granted, and will require sustained fortitude and commitment, the queen said.
Her message came 100 years since the state was founded on May 3, 1921.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson followed the same theme, stating the eventwas an opportunity for people to come together.
Arlene Foster, the outgoing first minister for Northern Ireland andleader of the Democratic Unionist Party, did notpublish a statement marking the anniversary but retweeted a message from Economy Minister Diane Dodds,who championed the nations industry.
The calls for people to join together come after a tumultuous few months for Northern Ireland.
Violence was sparkedin April in response toissues surrounding the European Union border, which is in place between Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom after Brexit.
Foster last week announced her plans to step down. (dpa/NAN)
Source: NAN News