[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 104 (Wednesday, July 13, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1314]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE 37TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TURKISH INVASION OF CYPRUS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 13, 2011

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, on July 20, we mark the 37th anniversary of 
the Turkish invasion and subsequent occupation of Cyprus.
  Cyprus has a rich culture and religious history. However, its history 
has been difficult due to myriad conflicts with its neighbor Turkey, 
including the occupation, which continues to this day on over a third 
of the Island.
  I want to express my concern about violations of human rights and 
fundamental freedoms of the Cypriot people. Moreover, reports of the 
segregation of Greek and Turkish Cypriot people are equally troubling. 
Any means of violence has simply exacerbated conflicts between the 
Cypriot and Turkish people, and cannot be an option moving forward.
  Cyprus and the U.S. share a deep and abiding commitment to upholding 
the ideals of freedom, democracy, justice, human rights, and the 
international rule of law. Infringements upon these American--and 
Cypriot--principles should not go unnoticed. I remain steadfast in my 
dedication to correcting these problems and working with others to 
ensure that Cyprus can flourish for years to come.
  Thirty-seven years later, I remain committed to the goal of a 
reunified and prosperous Cyprus where Greek Cypriots and Turkish 
Cypriots can live together in peace and security.

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