[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 133 (Wednesday, September 29, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CALLING ON TURKISH-OCCUPIED CYPRUS TO PROTECT RELIGIOUS ARTIFACTS

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                               speech of

                           HON. ED WHITFIELD

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 28, 2010

  Mr. WHITFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong 
opposition to H. Res. 1631, a one-sided resolution that seeks to 
advance political interests under the guise of the protection of 
religious sites on the island of Cyprus. This resolution carries with 
it the potential to significantly damage relations between Turkish and 
Greek Cypriots at a time when reconciliation talks are at a critical 
stage. In fact, the United Nations special envoy for Cyprus expressed 
hope that, an agreement on the divided island could be brokered by the 
end of the year.
  In 2009, Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders took a tremendous step 
toward reconciliation with the formation of the Cultural Heritage 
Technical Committee, an organization tasked with the protection, 
preservation, and restoration of the rich cultural heritage of Cyprus. 
This committee has made enormous progress in identifying sites, located 
in both northern and southern Cyprus, which are suitable for 
restoration and protection. This committee has been one of the most 
successful vehicles yet created for fostering open dialogue and honest 
conversation between Greek and Turkish Cypriots on an issue of great 
importance to both communities. It would be unfortunate if actions by 
the U.S. Congress were to somehow unintentionally disrupt the progress 
that has been made so far to protect and restore precious artifacts and 
heritage sites.
  While I commend my colleagues for their desire to protect the rich 
cultural heritage of Cyprus, the two parties in this conflict are 
already working to correct the wrongs of the past. This resolution puts 
their hard work in jeopardy, and I urge Congress to play a peacemaking 
role, rather than take sides in a dispute.

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