[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 97 (Friday, July 22, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 22, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
       THE TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF TURKISH OCCUPATION OF CYPRUS

                                 ______


                               speech of

                       HON. ROBERT G. TORRICELLI

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 19, 1994

  Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, the 1974 division of Cyprus was a 
tragedy that continues to plague the harmony of the island. The United 
States has always maintained strong and close ties with Cyprus and it 
is clearly in the United States interest for there to be a fair 
settlement between the Greek and Turkish Cypriots.
  But a fair solution, while attainable, is undermined by the Turkish 
Government's insistence on recognition for a separate Turkish Cypriot 
State. No other Government aside from Ankara recognizes this State. 
Ankara's obstinateness is a disservice not only to the international 
community, Cyprus and all the nations of the region, but to Turkey 
itself. The Turkish military occupation of Cyprus is condemned by the 
international community and prevents a peaceful solution to the 
conflict.
  A solution to this problem must be found, and the United Nations is 
making every effort to find one. Congress must also make every effort 
to support the United Nations in its attempts to reach a settlement 
between the two parties.
  It is disappointing that recent U.N. negotiations on Cyprus have 
failed. It is imperative that the Greek and Turkish Cypriots cooperate 
with the Secretary General in his attempt to provide an outline for a 
settlement of the dispute.
  I have sponsored legislation calling on a peaceful U.N. sponsored 
solution to the Cyprus dispute. I am also a cosponsor of legislation to 
provide an investigation of people missing since the 1974 Turkish 
invasion of Cyprus. I will continue my commitment to legislation and 
other measures designed to bring a peaceful solution to the situation 
on Cyprus.
  Until the Ankara government recognizes the need for a compromise 
acceptable to all parties and negotiates under the guise of the United 
Nations, this conflict will continue to be an unnecessary and unwanted 
burden on the region and the world.

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