Daniel Craig joins the UN to help to clear mines in Cyprus

NICOSIA , Cyprus, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Daniel Craig has teamed up with the United Nations to help clear out mines inside the island country of Cyprus.

The James Bond star accompanied a U.N. mine-clearance team on the eastern Mediterranean island Tuesday as part of a two-day visit to inspect their work clearing minefields placed there more than four decades ago.

"Witnessing the potential impact that mines can have on people and communities, years after the end of conflict, brings home the humanitarian importance of the UN's demining efforts in Cyprus," the actor said in a statement.

This was Craig's first mission since being appointed as the first United Nations Global Advocate for the Elimination of Mines and Explosive Hazards in April.

"The fact that the U.N. Global Advocate chose to come to Cyprus for his first mission, at a time when demining demonstrates positive momentum in the peace process, is significant. His visit draws attention to the UN's long-expressed goal of achieving a mine-free Cyprus for all," said Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of Mission Lisa Buttenheim.

Craig became familiar with the widespread existence of mines while filming movies in Cambodia. The 47-year-old was impressed to see experienced Cambodians clear mines in Cyprus.

"For these peacekeepers to take their expertise, gleaned over the last 40 years in Cambodia, and make it available to the people of Cyprus, half-way around the world, is truly inspiring," he said.

After this mission, Craig plans on continuing to work with the UN and dedicate as much as time as needed to help eradicate the threat of landmines all over the world.

"I don't have a lot of experience in warzones and minefields," he said. "Hopefully I'll get to visit somewhere this year where UNMAS are doing their incredible work and with that I'll be able to get the message out there."