[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 37 (Tuesday, April 5, 2005)]
[House]
[Pages H1750-H1753]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[[Page H1750]]
GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) is recognized for 5 minutes.
General Leave
Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members
may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their
remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of this Special
Order.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, today I proudly rise to celebrate Greek
Independence Day and its strong ties that bind the nation of Greece and
the United States.
Mr. Speaker, 184 years ago, the people of Greece began a journey that
would mark a symbolic rebirth of democracy in the land where those
principles to human dignity were first espoused.
They rebelled against more than 400 years of Turkish oppression. The
revolution of 1821 brought independence to Greece and emboldened those
who still sought freedom across the world. I commemorate Greek
Independence Day each year for the same reasons we celebrate our 4th of
July. It proved that a united people, through sheer will and
perseverance, can prevail against tyranny. Both our nations share an
illustrious history and defense of this cherished ideal.
The concept of democracy was first conceived by the ancient Athenians
more than 2,500 years ago. Men such as Aristotle, Socrates, Plato, and
Euripides developed the then-unique notion that men could, if left to
their own devices, lead themselves rather than be subject to the will
of a sovereign.
It was Thomas Jefferson who said, ``One man with courage is a
majority.'' Jefferson and the rest of the Founding Fathers looked back
to the teachings of ancient Greek philosophers for inspiration as they
sought to craft the Declaration of Independence. On March 25, 1821,
Archbishop Germanos of Patras embodied the spirit of those words when
he raised the flag of freedom and was the first to declare Greece free.
News of the Greek revolution was met with widespread feelings of
compassion in the United States. Several American Presidents, including
James Monroe and John Quincy Adams, conveyed their support for the
revolution through their annual messages to Congress.
Various Members of Congress also showed a keen interest in the
Greeks' struggle for autonomy. Henry Clay, who in 1825 became Secretary
of State, was a champion of Greece's fight for independence.
After 7 years of fighting, the Greeks finally got their independence.
Unfortunately, many people were killed in the struggle for freedom. We
all know that the price of liberty can be very high. History is replete
with the names of the millions who have sacrificed for it.
This year's celebration of Greek Independence Day is especially
fitting in light of the current wave of political and social movements
around the world in the name of democracy. International events in
recent months have brought stunning news of political upheaval and
dramatic changes from the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Most
notably, through peaceful demonstrations, Syria lost its political
stronghold on Lebanon. Ukraine elected Viktor Yushchenko as its new
President, and Iraq held its first democratic elections. The common
theme among all of these movements has been democracy.
However, at a time of democratic celebration, the divided Republic of
Cyprus remains a sore spot. Sadly, Turkey still illegally occupies
Cyprus, as it has since its invasion in 1974. Despite sincere efforts
by the United Nations and the United States, a fair plan was not
presented to the people of Cyprus on April 24, 2004. Many people,
including the Greek-Cypriots themselves, regret that the plan presented
to them did not allow both communities to respond positively. It is one
thing for others to comment on the terms and conditions for settlement;
but it is the Cypriots, the Cypriots who must live with whatever plan
that would be adopted. Finding a fair resolution for Cyprus will help
stabilize a region marked more often by conflict than accord. I urge
our government to remain committed to finding a peaceful settlement for
Cyprus.
Although the ties between Greece and America go back hundreds of
years, the fruit of this bond is visible today. During the early 1900s,
one out of four Greek males immigrated to the United States. Today
there are close to 3 million Greek Americans. I am especially proud of
my fellow Greek Americans who have made contributions to our society in
the fields of medicine, science, business, law, and politics, among
other areas. In the words of a notable British poet, Percy Shelley, he
said, ``We are all Greeks! Our laws, our literature, our religion, our
art have their roots in Greece.''
Mr. Speaker, on this 184th birthday of Greek independence, we
celebrate the triumph of the human spirit and the strength of man's
will. Today we commemorate the reaffirmation of the democratic heritage
that our two nations share so closely. Lastly, this occasion also
serves to remind us, Mr. Speaker, that we must never take for granted
the right to determine our own fate.
Mr. Speaker, today I proudly rise to celebrate Greek Independence Day
and the strong ties that bind the nation of Greece and the United
States.
One hundred and eighty-four years ago, the people of Greece began a
journey that would mark the symbolic rebirth of democracy in the land
where those principles to human dignity were first espoused.
They rebelled against more than 400 years of Turkish oppression. The
revolution of 1821 brought independence to Greece and emboldened those
who still sought freedom across the world. I commemorate Greek
Independence Day each year for the same reasons we celebrate our Fourth
of July. It provided that a united people, through sheer will and
perseverance, can prevail against tyranny. Both our nations share an
illustrious history in defense of this cherished ideal.
The concept of democracy was first conceived by the ancient Athenians
more than 2,500 years ago. Men such as Aristotle, Socrates, Plato, and
Euripides developed the then-unique notion that men could, if left to
their own devices, lead themselves rather than be subject to the will
of a sovereign. It was Aristotle who said: ``If liberty and equality,
as is thought by some, are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will
be attained when all persons alike share in the government to the
utmost.'' It was this concept that our Founding Fathers drew heavily
upon in forming our representative government.
It was Thomas Jefferson who said that, ``One man with courage is a
majority.'' Jefferson, and the rest of the Founding Fathers, looked
back to the teachings of ancient Greek philosophers for inspiration as
they sought to craft the Declaration of Independence. On March 25,
1821, Archbishop Germanos of Patras embodied the spirit of those words
when he raised the flag of freedom and was the first to declare Greece
free.
Revolutions embody a sense of heroism, bringing forth the greatness
of the human spirit. Encouraged by the American Revolution, the Greeks
began their rebellion after four centuries of Turkish oppression,
facing what appeared to be insurmountable odds. Both nations faced the
prospect of having to defeat an empire to obtain liberty. Although many
lives were sacrificed at the altar of freedom, the Greek people rallied
around the battle cry ``Eleftheria I Thanatos'' ``liberty or death,''
mirroring the words of American Patriot Patrick Henry who said: ``Give
me liberty or give me death.'' These words personified the Greek
patriots' unmitigated desire to be free.
Not surprisingly, the Greek Commander-in-Chief Petros Mavromichalis
appealed to the citizens of America, ``Having formed the resolution to
live or die, we are drawn toward you by a just sympathy since it is in
your land that liberty has fixed her abode. . . . Hence, honoring her
name, we invoke yours at the same time, trusting that in imitating you,
we shall imitate our ancestors and be thought worthy of them if we
succeed in resembling you.''
News of the Greek revolution was met with widespread feelings of
compassion in the United States. Several American Presidents, including
James Monroe and John Quincy Adams, conveyed their support for the
revolution through their annual messages to Congress. William Harrison,
our ninth president, expressed his belief in freedom for Greece,
saying: ``We must send our free will offering. `The Star-spangled
Banner' must wave in the Aegean . . . a messenger of fraternity and
friendship to Greece.''
Various Members of Congress also showed a keen interest in the
Greeks' struggle for autonomy. Henry Clay, who in 1825 became
[[Page H1751]]
Secretary of State, was a champion of Greece's fight for independence.
Among the most vocal was Daniel Webster from Massachusetts, who
frequently roused the sympathetic interest of his colleagues and other
Americans in the Greek revolution.
Many Americans sympathized with the ``Philhellenic'' cause and sent
the Greeks supplies, food, and medicine; anything that could help
maintain and boost the moral of the Greeks. In fact, many traveled to
Greece to join the revolution in the fight for freedom.
After seven years of fighting, the Greeks finally got their
independence. Unfortunately, many people were killed in the struggle
for freedom. We all know that the price of liberty can be very high--
history is replete with the names of the millions who have sacrificed
for it. Many great scholars throughout history warned that we maintain
democracy only at a great costs. The freedom we enjoy today is due to a
large degree to the sacrifices made by men and women in the past--in
Greece, in America, and all over the world.
Freedom is America's heart. It is central to our being, and from the
beginning we have recognized that freedom is not just an American
right. It is a God-given right to every citizen of the world. The
lessons the Greeks and our colonial forefathers taught us provide hope
and inspiration to victims of persecution throughout the world today.
This year's celebration of Greek Independence Day is especially
fitting in light of the current wave of political and social movements
around the world in the name of democracy. International events in
recent months have brought stunning news of political upheaval and
dramatic changes from the Middle East, Africa and Eastern Europe. Most
notably, through peaceful demonstrations, Syria lost its political
stronghold on Lebanon, Ukraine elected Viktor Yushchenko as its new
president and Iraq held its first democratic elections. The common
theme between all of these movements has been democracy.
However, at a time of democratic celebration, the divided Republic of
Cyprus remains a sore spot. Sadly, Turkey still illegally occupies
Cyprus, as it has since its invasion in 1974. Despite sincere efforts
by the United Nations and the United States, a fair plan was not
presented to the people of Cyprus on April 24, 2004. Many people--
including the Greek-Cypriots themselves--regret that the plan presented
to them did not allow both communities to respond positively. It is one
thing for others to comment on the terms and conditions for settlement,
but it is the Cypriots who must live with whatever plan would be
adopted. Finding a fair resolution for Cyprus will help stabilize a
region marked more often by conflict than accord. I urge our government
to remain committed to finding a peaceful settlement for Cyprus.
I believe these principles of which my colleagues and I have spoken
about today are not uniquely Greek or American. They are our promise to
the world and they form a legacy that we all cherish and have
responsibility to protect and defend.
The priceless ideas of democracy and equality born in ancient Greece
have strongly shaped the American national identity. We continue to
give hope and inspiration to millions around the world who yearn to
live in a free society like ours. We enjoy our freedom only because we
have been willing to fight and die for it, just like our forefathers
and the valiant Greeks in 1821. Greece set the example for us and we
have set the example for countless others.
Although the ties between Greece and America go back hundreds of
years, the fruit of this bond is visible today. During the early 1900s
one out of four Greek males immigrated to the United States. Today
there are close to three million Greek-Americans. I am especially proud
of my fellow Greek-Americans who have made contributions to our society
in the fields of medicine, science, business, law and politics, among
other areas. In the words of a notable British poet, Percy Shelley,
``We are all Greeks! Our laws, our literature, our religion, our art,
have their roots in Greece.''
Mr. Speaker, on this 184th birthday of Greek Independence we
celebrate the triumph of the human spirit and the strength of man's
will. Today we commemorate the reaffirmation of the democratic heritage
that our two nations share so closely. Lastly, this occasion also
serves to remind us that we must never take for granted the right to
determine our own fate.
Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor for me to pay tribute on Greek
Independence Day to one of the United States' most important allies and
one which is regarded with such deep affection by millions of Americans
of all ethnic origins.
Western civilization as we know it today owes the deepest debt and,
indeed, its very origins, to the Greek nation. Greek philosophy,
sculpture, and theater set standards to which today's practitioners
still aspire. And, as the cradle of democracy, Athens is the spiritual
ancestor of our own Republic and, in many respects, its role model.
Mr. Speaker, the history of Greek independence is one of the
inspiring stories of our time. It is the tale of the revival of an
ancient and great people through sheer commitment, sacrifice, and love
of freedom and heritage. Transmitted through the generations, the
ideals of the ancient Greeks inspired their revolutionary descendants
in the nineteenth century, and great and gallant stalwarts of the War
of Independence such as Theodore Kolokotronis and Rigas Velestinlis
wrote of their belief in the rights of man.
The histories of the United States and Greece have been intimately
intertwined ever since the beginning of modern Greek sovereignty. The
cause of Greek independence evoked sympathy throughout the Western
world. Well known is Lord Byron, whose uncompromising commitment to
Greece was epitomized by his declaration ``In for a penny, in for a
pound.'' Less renowned but no less committed were the many American
Philhellenes, who repaid their debt to Greek culture by crossing the
ocean to fight for Greek liberation. I am pleased that these American
citizens have been honored with a monument in Athens.
Mr. Speaker, Greek citizens also crossed the ocean in the other
direction, emigrating to the United States, where they enjoyed great
success and shared their prosperity with their kinfolk in their
original homeland. They have served as a bridge of understanding
between our two nations, and they have refreshed America with their
spirit, their patriotism, and their hard work. Today, some five million
Americans claim Greek ancestry, with understandable pride.
Our close relations with Greece became even closer after World War
II. The Truman Doctrine helped save Greece from communism, indeed
helped save it for the Western and democratic world, and the Marshall
Plan helped in Greece's economic regeneration. In 1952, Greece joined
NATO, formalizing the deep, mutual commitment of Greece and the rest of
the Western world to protecting freedom.
In more recent times, Mr. Speaker, Greece has been one of the world's
amazing success stories. A full-fledged member of the European Union
for nearly a quarter-century, Greece has become increasingly
prosperous; it whipped chronic inflation and joined the ``Euro currency
zone.'' Its once unsettled domestic politics--including the sad chapter
of military rule from 1967-74--has long since given way to an
incontestably stable, yet still colorful, democracy. The Greek people
cherish democracy not only as their contribution to world civilization
but as a system which they achieved only through enormous sacrifice and
commitment in modern times.
Greece remains one of our critical strategic partners in today's
post-cold war world. We cooperate closely in promoting peace and
stability in the Balkans. Economic ties with Greece are vital to
virtually every Balkan state. Athens has been a firm supporter of a
just, lasting, and democratic settlement of the Cyprus issue. More than
1,300 Greek troops took part in Operation Enduring Freedom and helped
liberate Afghanistan from Taliban tyranny. And I'm sure everybody in
this body applauds Greece's historic and courageous effort to resolve
differences with its neighbor Turkey, punctuated by its strong backing
last year for Turkey's successful bid to open accession talks for EU
membership.
Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in congratulating the
Greek people on the 184th anniversary of their independence and in
thanking them for their substantial contributions to world civilization
and especially to our nation.
Mr. DOYLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise here today to honor a great American
ally and an inspiration to people striving for freedom throughout the
whole world--Greece.
Today the House observes the 184th anniversary of Greek independence
from the Ottoman Empire. This anniversary not only represents a triumph
for the nation of Greece but a triumph for all Western democratic
nations. The ancient city-states of Greece created many of the
fundamental elements that have shaped our modern culture such as logic,
mathematics, the empirical method of scientific discovery, politics,
and the philosophical ideals that were embraced by our Founding
Fathers, especially the motion of democracy and self-governance.
In a perplexing world where terrorism and war confront our nation, it
is comforting to know that we can count on the nation of Greece for
support. Greece remains one of our staunchest allies. Greece was one of
the first nations to express solidarity for the United States after 9/
11 and since then has been in the forefront of the War on Terror.
I join Greek Americans in my district of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and
throughout the world in celebrating a proud nation with a rich long
heritage in inspiring and influencing men and women around the world. I
am proud to stand here today to recognize and honor
[[Page H1752]]
Greece on this the 184th Anniversary of its independence.
Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join millions of Greeks
and Greek-Americans in celebration of the 184th anniversary of Greek
independence from the Ottoman Empire.
Through it was 184 years ago this day that the Greek people fought
for their unquestioned freedom, the Greek tradition of liberty and
self-governance extends back thousands of years. The city-states of
that storied peninsula were truly the forefathers of our democratic
lineage. Our own founders drew upon the teachings and experiences of
the ancient Greeks in their pursuit of individual freedom.
There is no area of human thought that does not pay homage to the
enduring contributions of Greece. Our greatest masters of mathematics,
literature, science, art, architecture, theatre and philosophy all
trace their intellectual heritage through its people. It is without
question that the ancient Greeks were responsible for bringing light on
what was an otherwise dark world.
In two centuries, we have watched as a new democracy has been
reforged where the very idea of democracy was born. The Greek people
have also helped build America as well. Greek-American communities
continue to add to the richness and tradition of many of America's
cities, not least of all, in my own district in New York City. Our
shared values of freedom and individual excellence have made Greek-
Americans an important part of the quilt of American society.
Mr. Speaker, on this occasion in which we celebrate Greeks
independence, let us all remember the great debt we owe to the
civilization that has given so much of itself to become the foundation
of all democracies. By carrying on the great tradition of democracy,
let us remember and honor the legacy of ancient Greece, as we stand
with our Greek friends and allies of today.
Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to
commemorate Greeks Independence Day.
March 25, 2005 marked the 184th anniversary of the revolution that
freed the people of Greece from the Ottoman Empire. Today, I extend my
solidarity in commemoration of this celebration of independence and
democracy.
As the cradle of western civilization, we are deeply indebted to the
nation of Greece and the Greek people for their wisdom and commitment
to the ideals of freedom and democracy. Our own democracy was created
from the blue prints of ancient Greece.
The contribution of Greeks to the arts, sciences, and political
fields are felt profoundly to this day. It is through Greek experiences
and insight that the ideals of self-governance were shaped. In modern
times, the Greek people have reaffirmed their commitment to the goals
of their proud past. As a member of the European Union, Greece has
constantly championed democratic principles and been an important
advocate for freedom fighters throughout the world.
I congratulate the people of Greece for their vital contributions to
our world, in both ancient and modern times, as we celebrate Greek
Independence Day.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, March 25, 2005 has
been designated ``Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration
of Greek and American Democracy.'' I am pleased to join my colleagues
in recognizing the unique contribution of Greece and of Greek-
Americans.
Ancient Greeks created a form of government that got people involved
in the task of governing themselves. Our founding fathers, as ratified
in our Constitution, enshrined this principle in American law and
created a system of ``Grecian republics'' which was based on the
Hellenic belief that the authority to govern derives directly from the
people. We will always owe a great intellectual debt to that rich and
vibrant civilization. Today, our two countries share a great cultural
affinity, are partners in the NATO alliance, and have many other ties
that bind us together.
In Dallas, Texas, the warm winds of the Greek Isles are just a step
away in Yiayia Sofia's Greek Village, the permanent exhibit at the
Dallas Children's Museum which offers children the rare opportunity to
explore a replica of a home and village square in Greece. Mr. Speaker,
more than a million citizens of Greek descent live in America today,
and their devotion to family, faith, community, and country has
enriched me, my community in Dallas, Texas, as well as our Nation. For
that I am always appreciative of the Greek beauty and culture that has
enriched my entire life. I'm pleased we take time out each year to
recall how we are all enriched by the art, the ideals, and the spirit
of Greece.
Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in celebration of the 184th
Anniversary of Greek Independence and to thank my colleagues, Mr.
Bilirakis and Mrs. Maloney, who have once again shown great leadership
in their efforts to organize this special order.
On Greek Independence Day, we celebrate our special ties of
friendship, history, and shared values with Greece. In doing so, we not
only honor such an important day in Greek history, but also the strong
and unique relationship that exists today between the United States and
Greece.
Our two nations have enjoyed close relations since the people of
Greece declared their independence on March 25, 1821. Our country has
welcomed generations of Greek immigrants, and we are grateful for how
they have enhanced our culture and contributed to our country in a
variety of fields, including philosophy, architecture, politics and the
arts. I am so proud to have a thriving community of Hellenic-Americans
in the 9th District of New Jersey. I salute them and their ancestors'
struggle for freedom on the anniversary of Greek Independence Day and I
commend them for their tremendous contributions to the very fabric of
our community.
For nearly 200 years, the American and Greek peoples have shared a
profound commitment to democratic principles, and have worked to create
societies built on these principles. The United States and Greece have
stood together in every major struggle for freedom and democracy and
now they continue to work together in the fight against terrorism.
Greece continues to be a valuable military partner to the United
States, as is evident through their support of both Operation Enduring
Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and an important member of both
NATO and the European Union.
I am so pleased to have this opportunity to toast the Greek people
and celebrate Greek culture once again. It is an honor to rise and
commemorate the 184th Greek Independence Day. On this day we celebrate
more than just Greece's independence, we celebrate Greece as an
important military ally and longstanding friend of the United States.
Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in proud recognition of the
184th anniversary of Greek Independence. On this special day for
Greece, we commemorate the strength and determination of its people to
restore their democratic roots and identity.
The political philosophies of both the United States and Greece have
been challenged by oppressive powers, and both nations have proudly
defended their right to self-government and individual freedoms. Greece
endured eleven long years of war to succeed in gaining independence
from the Ottoman Empire. American and Hellenic cultures greatly respect
this tradition of independence and recognize the importance of
democratic principles.
The United States and Greece have always enjoyed a friendship and
alliance in international and cultural endeavors. Hellenic principles
resonate in our culture and politics, since the United States was
founded on the principles of democracy developed thousands of years ago
in the city-states of ancient Greece. The beauty of Greek architecture
can even be found while taking a walk through our beloved Capitol
building. Likewise, our country's influence on Greece can be seen in
their first Constitution, which was based on our Declaration of
Independence and the principles behind the American Revolution.
On a cultural level, I would like to commend Greece on the great
success of the Olympic Games in Athens last August. Since Greece
resurrected the Olympics in 1896, they have symbolized peace and
excellence for people around the world. The Olympics show that great
athletic skill and spirited competition can bring nations together
despite their differences. Greece served as a gracious host of the
Games, and the 25th Summer Olympics proved again to the world how
Hellenic ideals such as equality and friendship have stood the test of
time and continue to flourish at a global level. Hellenic culture,
whether through its development of democratic government or its
espousal of friendly competition, encourages people to come together
amicably even during the most difficult of times.
Mr. Speaker, it would be hard to imagine the United States of
America, or the world for that matter, without the great contributions
of Greece. I will continue to work in Congress to support Hellenic
causes, and I would like to join my colleagues in congratulating Greece
on the anniversary of its independence.
I urge my colleagues to join me in celebrating this anniversary.
Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join my colleagues here in
the United States Congress in celebration of the 184th anniversary of
Greece's Independence Day. We would not be standing in this very
building were it not for the influences of ancient Greek architecture
and ancient Greek notions of freedom, democracy, and independence.
On the anniversary of Greek independence, we honor the achievements
and contributions of the Greek people and the Greek state, and salute a
proud nation that has accomplished so much in history, science,
philosophy, mathematics, literature, and art. But by far the most
notable of all their achievements is the notion of democracy. Our own
founding fathers incorporated the ancient Greek's political experience
and philosophy when they formed our
[[Page H1753]]
representative democracy. In 1821, the Greeks continued this tradition
by revolting against nearly 400 years of repressive rule by the Ottoman
Empire and began their journey toward independence.
Greek concepts of government and freedom have had an immense and
inestimable influence on the world. The world witnessed this as Greece,
home of the first Olympics, hosted the Games once again in 2004. So
March 25th marked a historic day for the world, not just for Greece
alone. It is yet another day for all to celebrate the principles of
democracy, freedom and self-governance.
Over the years, the United States and Greece have shown their
commitment to and admiration for democratic ideals. Greece is one of
only a handful of countries that stood by the United States in every
major international conflict in the 20th century: World War I, World
War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm, and the Balkans.
The Greek government responded to the September 11th terrorist attacks
with strong political support, as well. The United States and Greece
have formed a special bound based upon their shared commitment to
democracy and freedom.
Today, the world needs to come together and stand on the basis of
Greek principles to protect the human and religious rights of the
Ecumenical Patriarchate. While this is an issue that concerns the Greek
community, it is one that is vital to all communities. We must protect
the rights of Ecumenical Patriarchate as Turkey has: refused to
recognize the Ecumenical Patriarchate's international status and its
significance of Orthodox Christians around the world; prevented the
Orthodox Christian church from selecting bishops from anywhere in the
world to become the Ecumenical Patriarch by requiring Turkish
citizenship; confiscated Ecumenical properties since 2002; and levied a
retroactive tax on the Balukli Hospital, a philanthropic institution
run by the Ecumenical Patriarchate which treats thousands of patients a
year.
We also call on Turkey to grant appropriate international recognition
and ecclesiastic succession to the Ecumenical Patriarch, along with the
right to train clergy of all nationalities.
Finally, the resolution calls on Turkey to respect the property
rights and religious rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
From the history of democracy to the religious freedom and human
rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, we share a common vision with
Greece and all of her people. On this day, the United States of America
and Greece stand side-by-side in our commitment to the principles of
democracy, freedom, and independence. And I would like to thank the
Greek people for leading the way and giving us the inspiration and
strength to pursue these ideals.
Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, on March 25th Greece celebrated its 184th
year of independence. I am here tonight to praise a society that
represents, in a historical sense, the origins of what we call Western
culture, and, in a contemporary sense, one of the staunchest defenders
of Western society and values. There are many of us in Congress, on
both sides of the spectrum, who are staunchly committed to preserving
and strengthening the ties between Greek and American people.
In the years since Greek independence, Americans and Greeks have
grown ever closer, bound by ties of strategic and military alliance,
common values of democracy, individual freedom, human rights, and close
personal friendship.
The timeless values of Greek culture have endured for centuries,
indeed for millennia. Four hundred years of control by the Ottoman
Empire could not overcome the Greek people's determination to be free.
But, I regret to say, Mr. Speaker, to this day, the Greek people must
battle against oppression. For over 30 years now, Greece has stood firm
in its determination to bring freedom and independence to the illegally
occupied nation of Cyprus.
I also have grown increasingly concerned over the Bush
administration's blatant shift in policy towards Cyprus that's become
apparent since the Greek Cypriots rejected a United Nations
reunification proposal offered by U.N. Secretary General Koffi Annan
last year. I reject the belief that the United States Government should
punish Greek Cypriots for going to the voting booth and concluding,
rightly in my opinion, that the Annan Plan forced the Greek Cypriots to
make far more concessions than Turkey.
I'm particularly concerned by comments made earlier this year by
Secretary Rice in Turkey in which she stated: (and I quote) ``We are
looking at what we can do to ease the isolation of the Turkish Cypriots
because, we, like everyone else, were disappointed that the Annan plan
was not adopted. We have taken some steps, direct aid for instance to
Turkish Cypriots, but there are probably other things that we should
look at doing.''
I shouldn't have to remind the Secretary of State that the isolation
of the Turkish Cypriots derives from the ongoing occupation of the
northern third of the island by Turkish troops and that our nations
efforts should be concentrated on the withdrawal of these troops.
While the U.S. government should work to make the lives of Turkish-
Cypriots better, it's simply unacceptable for our government to help
the Turkish-Cypriot 'government' that continues to illegally rule the
northern third of the island. The Bush administration simply cannot
ignore well-established international law as a way to punish the Greek
Cypriots for their democratic vote in opposition to the Annan Plan.
It's important that Secretary of State take a historic look at the
Cyprus problem over the last 30 years when developing U.S. policy. It's
important the U.S. Government not only look at the Cyprus problem
through the lens of the Annan vote last year, but also from the
perspective of three decades of illegal actions on the Turkish side.
I would hope that the Bush administration would then conclude that
it's in the best interests of our nation to support a united democratic
Cyprus, free of any Turkish occupation or any Turkish troops.
Mr. Speaker, I want to once again congratulate the Greek people for
184 years of independence, and hope someday soon we can celebrate the
independence of the Greek-Cypriots.
____________________