[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 110 (Tuesday, July 15, 2014)]
[House]
[Page H6226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DIVISION OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
(Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today because Sunday, July
20, marks the 40th anniversary of the division of the Republic of
Cyprus.
I fully support the reunification of Cyprus, and it is encouraging
that the Government of Cyprus remains fully committed to the U.N.-
sponsored process to reach an enduring settlement that would reunify
Cyprus based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation in accordance with
relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions.
The occupation of Cyprus has led to thousands of Greek Cypriots being
denied their fundamental right to return to their homes, freedom of
worship continues to be severely restricted, and access to religious
sites blocked.
Cyprus is an important ally of the United States, and its newest
discovery of offshore gas reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean will
strengthen cooperation with the United States and with our ally,
Israel, and offer an alternative source of energy supply to Europe.
As a strategic partner of the United States, Madam Speaker, Cyprus
can help us promote security and stability in this volatile region.
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