[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 48 (Wednesday, March 26, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E452]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   ACKNOWLEDGING THE ONGOING NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN GREEK AND TURKISH 
                      CYPRIOTS ON A UNIFIED CYPRUS

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. STEVE COHEN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 26, 2014

  Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the importance of 
the ongoing negotiations in Cyprus between Greek and Turkish Cypriots 
that would bring about a peaceful resolution to the dispute on a 
unified Cyprus. On February 24, 2014, Greek Cypriot negotiator, Andreas 
Mavroyiannis, and his Turkish Cypriot counterpart, Kudret Ozersay, 
resumed talks in what the United Nations has deemed as ``substantive 
discussions.'' This is promising news and it is my hope that these 
talks will mark the first, new steps toward a final settlement that 
will achieve a unified Cyprus.
  The Republic of Cyprus has endured a long history of ethnic and 
religious battles between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. While Greek and 
Turkish Cypriot communities remain divided, with the latter isolated 
from the international community, a unified Cyprus has much to offer to 
the region and global community. A peacefully unified Cyprus would see 
increased tourism, exchanges of close culture ties, expanded trade 
opportunities, and a new and stable source of energy. Additionally, a 
unified Cyprus would create a state and society that protects the 
rights of all its citizens and help establish a sound government that 
reflects its rightful place in Europe.
  During a phone call with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, 
President Barack Obama thanked the Prime Minister for his role in 
reviving negotiations. Turkey's leadership in bringing this conflict to 
an end is welcomed during this time of heightened intensity in the 
region. Any resolution agreed to should emulate the UN mission in 
Cyprus' declaration that a settlement ``will be based on a bi-communal, 
bizonal federation with political equality.'' I ask my colleagues to 
join me in encouraging both parties to see past the roadblocks that 
have held back progress and redouble their efforts as they move forward 
on a solution. Likewise, I hope the Obama Administration will continue 
to use its influence to push for a swift resolution on the Cyprus 
question.
  I stand with all Cypriots--in both communities--who seek to build a 
better Cyprus together.

                          ____________________