[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 110 (Thursday, July 21, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1378]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           37TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TURKISH INVASION OF CYPRUS

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                          HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 21, 2011

  Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 37th anniversary of the 
Turkish invasion of Cyprus. The 1974 invasion claimed the lives of 
approximately 5,000 Greek Cypriots, while 200,000 were forcefully 
displaced from their homes. This is a dark chapter not only for 
Hellenes, but for all of Europe.
  Thirty-seven years later, 43,000 Turkish soldiers still occupy over 
35 percent of Cyprus illegally. This occupied area is one of the most 
militarized areas in the world, despite the fact that Turkish and Greek 
Cypriots live in relative harmony.
  An agreement for a bi-communal governance and power sharing between 
Greek and Turkish Cypriots would not only serve the best interests for 
all of Cyprus, but it would also serve the U.S. in promoting peace and 
stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
  Cyprus has supported the U.S. in the efforts to counter terrorist-
related activities and threats to peace and security. During the wars 
in Afghanistan and Iraq Cyprus has provided over-flight and landing 
rights to the United States aircraft and port access for U.S. ships. In 
Beirut barracks bombing in 1983 Cyprus provided the staging ground for 
the U.S. evacuation and rescue efforts. In July-August 2006, Cyprus 
served as the principal transit location for people evacuating Lebanon.
  Cyprus shares the United States' deep and abiding commitment to 
upholding the ideals of freedom, democracy, justice, human rights, and 
the international rule of law, making the unification of Cyprus 
important. History shows us that Cyprus is a reliable partner to the 
U.S.
  I've met with Cypriot President Demetrius Christofias and his 
dedication to reunifying Cyprus is commendable, and continues to be his 
top priority. If only he could be met halfway by Turkey, Cyprus could 
flourish faster in this global economy with a unifying identity and 
single sovereignty.

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