[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 95 (Tuesday, July 8, 1997)]
[House]
[Page H4844]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           CYPRUS PEACE TALKS

  (Mr. PAPPAS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, this week Greek Cypriot President Glafcos 
Clerides, and Rauf Denktash, the Turkish Cypriot leader, have agreed to 
meet in upstate New York to start serious bilateral peace negotiations.
  It has been 23 years since the Turkish invasion of the Island of 
Cyprus, and a significant military presence on both sides still 
remains. It is my hope that the discussions will concentrate on the 
removal of Turkish troops, the restoration of the territorial integrity 
of the Republic of Cyprus, and the implementation of a constitutional 
democracy.
  Just as neighboring Greece, the birthplace of my grandparents, is the 
birthplace of democracy, it is very important that Cyprus serve as 
another cradle of democracy in southeast Europe.
  Today marks a positive first step forward. Opening a line of 
communication can only lead to greater understanding.
  Mr. Speaker, I wish both sides well and hope for a lasting and 
peaceful resolution for the people of Cyprus.

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