[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 107 (Tuesday, July 20, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1369]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TURKISH INVASION OF CYPRUS

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                          HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 20, 2010

  Mr. ROYCE. Madam Speaker, today marks the 35th anniversary of the 
Turkish invasion of Cyprus. The 1974 invasion claimed the lives of 
approximately 5,000 Greek Cypriots, while 200,000 were forcefully 
expelled from their homes. This is a dark chapter not only for 
Hellenes, but for all of Europe.
  As this occupation continues, nearly 43,000 Turkish soldiers--nearly 
one soldier for every two Turkish Cypriots--are embedded in Cyprus, 
occupying over 35 percent of the island. This occupied area is one of 
the most militarized areas in the world.
  Yet despite this military presence, Turkish and Greek Cypriots live 
in relative harmony. Since Ledra Street was opened, connecting occupied 
Cyprus to the south, over 13 million Greek and Turkish Cypriots have 
crossed the partition without incident. One can't help but wonder whom 
the Turkish military is protecting.
  While Turkey's influence continues to wreak havoc on reunification 
negotiations, Cypriot President Demetrius Christofias continues to make 
the solution to the Cyprus problem his top priority. Having met with 
him in Nicosia last year, his commitment to finding a solution greatly 
impressed me. There was certainly no lack of will on the Greek Cypriot 
side.
  To conclude, as we remember the invasion that split Cyprus in two, it 
is important to note that there are concrete efforts underway by the 
heads of the respective communities to reunify. Greek and Turkish 
Cypriots alike want to see a solution. What stands in the way is 
Turkey. If it still cares about ascending to the European Union, Turkey 
would be wise to remove its troops and stop impeding progress. For the 
sake of Cyprus, I hope Turkey wakes up.

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