[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 118 (Friday, July 25, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1239]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    IN RECOGNITION OF THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DIVISION OF CYPRUS

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 25, 2014

  Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, as you know, July 20th marked the 40th 
anniversary of Turkey's invasion of Cyprus. At this time, the need for 
reunification becomes even more apparent.
  Although negotiations between the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish 
Cypriots have been occurring since 2008, the two sides have been unable 
to reach an agreement that would reunite the country. Both sides must 
come to the table and discuss key status issues, including the right to 
return, future governance structures, and the citizenships status of 
Turkish settlers. As a member of the European Union, a united Cyprus 
can act as a stable and democratic strategic partner for the United 
States in a volatile region.
  Unfortunately, while these unsuccessful negotiations have been taking 
place, many Greek Cypriots face continued discrimination and 
obstruction. A number of Greek Cypriots have been unable to return to 
their homes in northern Cyprus, and their property is often illegally 
confiscated and sold without their consent. They live in fear of the 
Turkish military troops that still occupy the island and are unable to 
determine the fate of those who have been missing since the 1974 
division. Greek Cypriots are denied access to religious sites and a 
number of important sites have been looted and destroyed. The discovery 
of gas fields off the coast of the island has been complicated due to 
territorial disputes between the communities. It is unlikely these 
issues will be resolved unless a final resolution is agreed upon by 
both sides.
  In February, with help from the United States, the negotiation 
proceeded when leaders of the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots 
reached an agreement regarding the language of the ``joint 
declaration,'' which identifies the goals both sides hoped to reach by 
the end of the negotiations. Negotiations have resumed since the 
``joint declaration'' was established and must continue until there is 
a consensus on the final status of the island.
  Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Cyprus in May underscored U.S. 
support for negotiations and the importance of Cyprus as a key partner 
in the region. The United States must uphold its commitment to helping 
the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots reach an agreement 
regarding the reunification of their country. I ask my colleagues to 
join me in expressing continued support for the people of Cyprus as 
negotiations continue.

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