[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 103 (Thursday, July 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1489]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF TURKEY'S INVASION OF CYPRUS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 2004

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, as a proud member of the Hellenic Caucus, 
I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of Turkey's invasion of 
Cyprus. On this occasion, we mourn those who lost their lives and 
remember the barrier created in 1974. Sadly, that barrier still exists 
today, and despite attempts by the United Nations for a reunification 
settlement, the island remains divided between the Turkish Cypriots and 
the Greek Cypriots. I thank Mrs. Maloney and Mr. Bilirakis for their 
ongoing leadership in the Hellenic Caucus and for bringing much-needed 
attention to issues of importance to the Hellenic community.
  On the occasion of this anniversary, in addition to mourning and 
remembering, let us also look forward. The events of this past spring 
represent great triumphs for the Cyprus state and reaffirm Cyprus's 
willingness and determination to become an integral part of both the 
European community as well as the greater global community. Just this 
past May, Cyprus joined the European Union and will enjoy all of the 
privileges and opportunities of full membership. Inherent in that 
membership is a commitment to the human rights and fundamental freedoms 
that underscore that partnership. Despite this step forward, the nation 
remains divided. As the Greek Cypriots steer their nation toward 
greater prosperity and legitimacy, the Turkish Cypriots continue to 
pursue division and isolation.
  The government of Cyprus remains committed to reunification, as a 
bizonal, bicommunal federation with democratic and human rights for all 
Cypriots. In April, the people of Cyprus held a democratic vote on a 
reunification plan put forward by the UN. An astonishing 90 percent of 
the Greek Cypriot community turned out for this important vote. Yet, 
with 76 percent of Greek Cypriot voters opposing the plan, many in the 
international community were disappointed with the final outcome. What 
we must recognize is that any disappointment and criticism should be 
directed at the inadequacies of the reunification plan, rather than the 
free, democratic choice of the Greek Cypriots not to accept such a 
plan. Not only was the rejection of that plan an exercise of the 
democratic rights of the Greek Cypriots, but it further demonstrates 
their commitment to finding a viable and workable settlement.
  In reflecting on this historic vote, we should heed the words of the 
Greek Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulus: ``We are determined to 
try, until the end, in a peaceful manner and through negotiations, to 
end the invasion and occupation. The people should be brave, patient, 
and work hard.'' Patience in particular is tantamount to this endeavor. 
A lasting solution is not one that will be attained with the 
implementation of a rushed plan.

  Both the recent accession to the EU as well as this recent democratic 
vote should give us renewed determination to seek a full and peaceful 
reunification. Along with my colleagues, I will continue to put 
pressure on the Bush Administration and the international community to 
help Cyprus work toward a peaceful solution. Now more than ever, the 
U.S. must continue its role in supporting negotiations. It has been a 
long, hard road, but with support from the United States, the European 
Union, and the United Nations, a reunification of Cyprus is still 
within reach. Such a reunification would benefit us all. It would bring 
long-awaited peace and stability to the people of Cyprus, to the 
region, and to the larger international community.
  Again, I thank my colleagues on the Hellenic Caucus for their 
recognition of this important event.

                          ____________________