[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 135 (Wednesday, October 10, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1843]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   THE 41ST ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 10, 2001

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
commemorate the 41st anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of 
Cyprus. On October 1, 1960, Cyprus became an independent republic after 
decades of British colonial rule.
  Over the last decades, Cyprus and the United States have established 
close political, economic and social ties, developing a valued 
friendship. Both countries gained their independence from Great 
Britain, and now each country celebrates the anniversary of that 
independence as their national holiday. More significantly, Cyprus and 
the United States share a deep and abiding commitment to democracy, 
fundamental human rights, free markets, and the ideal and practice of 
equal justice under law.
  This year, the September 11th terrorist attacks cast a heavy shadow 
over the celebrations for Cyprus Independence Day, as the shock and 
grief continues to be felt. The leaders and the people of Cyprus have 
expressed their abhorrence and their strong condemnation for the 
terrorists and those who support them, while voicing their solidarity 
with the American people. In a moment of true friendship, the Republic 
of Cyprus declared September 14th as a Day of Mourning for the victims. 
Flags were flown at half-mast, flowers were laid at the American 
Embassy in the capital of Nicosia, while high-ranking officials and 
ordinary people signed a book of condolences.
  The government of Cyprus has pledged to cooperate fully with the Bush 
Administration in the battle against terrorism. Cyprus shares our 
belief that the horrendous act of violence on September 11th did not 
constitute just an offensive against America, it was an assault against 
democracy and freedom. Cypriots do not stand indifferent and passive in 
responding to heinous acts that target our sense of security, our civil 
liberties and our faith in the democratic process. Having achieved its 
independence after a bitter fight to uphold freedom and democracy, 
Cyprus understands that great determination and unity are needed in-
order to safeguard the treasured ideals we share.
  As the Republic of Cyprus celebrates its 41st Independence Day, I 
share their joy for having created a prosperous, open society based on 
solid foundations. Furthermore, I believe this is a opportunity for the 
United States of America and Cyprus to come closer together, as they 
stand united in their resolve to fight the battle on terrorism. As we 
move forward, I am confident that our friendship will continue well 
into the future.

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