[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 148 (Monday, November 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1886]
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. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 28, 2010

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
convey my opposition to H. Res. 1631, which passed by a voice vote on 
September 29, 2010.
  Unfortunately, I was not able to come to the floor of the House to 
personally express my concerns that this resolution will be against the 
interest of the America's Foreign Policy. I have always been and will 
continue to be a strong advocate for religious freedom, and human 
rights around the world, but this resolution, while cloaked under the 
mask of religious freedom is actually a direct attack towards our NATO 
Ally, Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots.
  The United States has supported the many efforts by international 
organizations who have long been engaged in the efforts to bring about 
a negotiated compromise to the dispute in Cyprus. Moreover, the current 
Greek and Turkish Cypriot Leaders are currently engaged in peace talks.
  Instead of helping to solve the problem between Greece and Turkey, 
two NATO Allies, this resolution could harm those careful negotiations. 
This Congress should be supporting the efforts to find a mutually 
agreed resolution between the parties instead of passing one-sided 
resolutions.
  I urge this Congress to take actions to ensure that an accord is 
achieved that would lead to an independent government with both Greek 
and Turkish Cypriot governmental engagement, and I oppose H. Res. 1631 
since it may harm the United States Foreign Policy in that region.

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