[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 13]
[House]
[Pages 18108-18114]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



            25TH ANNIVERSARY OF TURKEY'S INVASION OF CYPRUS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, as I have done every year, I rise again 
to declare my deep concern and utter indignation regarding the 25-year 
occupation of the island of Cyprus by Turkish troops.
  It was in July 1974, that Turkish forces, consisting of 6,000 troops 
and forty tanks, landed on Cyprus' northern coast and captured a good 
part of the island nation. This military operation was appropriately 
code-named ``Attila.''
  A few days later, the three guarantor powers, namely, Greece, Turkey 
and the United Kingdom, were negotiating to determine the fate of the 
island. To maximize its illegal territorial gains, Turkey used this 
opportunity to launch the second phase of its pre-planned assault, 
code-named ``Attila II.''
  Since then, Turkey has occupied 37% of the island in defiance of any 
code of civilized behavior in the community of nations.
  The consequences of that brutal action were devastating. More than 
5,000 people were killed during the invasion. Even today, the fate of 
1,614 Cypriots and 4 U.S. citizens, missing since the invasion, remains 
a mystery.
  More than 200,000 Greek Cypriots--men, women and children--were 
forcibly expelled by the invading Turkish army in a mass exodus 
reminiscent of Bosnia and Kosovo. These ``refugees'' settled in the 
southern part of the island. Of course, they have never been 
compensated by Turkey for their confiscated lands and houses, or for 
their ruined businesses.
  Ever since this atrocious act, Turkey has embarked on a methodical 
effort to first entrench and fortify its military presence on the 
island, and second, to alter the demographic characteristics and ethnic 
composition of its population.
  To achieve the former goal, Turkey beefed up its occupation force to 
more than 40,000. In addition, a large amphibious assault force is 
permanently stationed at the Turkish mainland base closest to Cyprus.
  To accomplish the latter goal, scores of Turkish people from Anatolia 
were transplanted into the occupied lands to take possession of the 
properties and businesses of the expelled refugees. These settlers, 
conservatively estimated at 80,000, and the Turkish occupation force 
currently outnumber the Turkish-Cypriot population who legitimately 
inhabited northern Cyprus before the invasion.
  The illegal nature of this aggressive act, and the brutality with 
which it was conducted, aroused the indignation of the international 
community. In the ensuing years, the arbitrary declaration of the 
occupied northern Cyprus as an independent ``republic'' failed to 
expunge its illegal nature. A quarter of a century later, the occupied 
Northern Cyprus has remained a pariah ``entity,'' not recognized by any 
nation in the world, except Turkey.
  Over the years, repeated attempts have been made by individual 
governments and by the United Nations to find a solution to the problem 
of Cyprus. All of them failed because of the intransigence of Turkey. 
As a result, the relations between Greece and Turkey have been 
adversely affected to the point that direct military confrontations 
between them have been narrowly averted on at least two occasions. 
Given their geographic location and the fact that both countries are 
member states of NATO, such a conflict would seriously impact the 
stability of the eastern Mediterranean region.

[[Page 18109]]

  Demilitarization would alleviate the security concerns of all parties 
and substantially enhance the prospects for a peaceful resolution of 
the problem. Unfortunately, Cyprus' efforts to resolve the situation 
have been rebuffed by Turkey and the self-proclaimed leader of the 
illegitimate Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Mr. Denktash.
  The intransigence of the Turkish side is clearly reflected in the two 
pre-conditions set by Mr. Denktash for a solution of the Cyprus 
problem. Specifically, he demanded that this illegal ``government'' in 
the occupied part of northern Cyprus be formally recognized. He also 
said Cyprus must withdraw its application to join the European Union, 
threatening that ``there will be war if Cyprus joined the European 
Union''.
  Both demands are obviously unacceptable to the Congress, the United 
States Government, the Government of Greece, the legitimate Government 
of Cyprus, and to any neutral member of the international community.
  Denktash's threats have been echoed by the Government of Turkey which 
has threatened to annex the occupied part of the island if Cyprus joins 
the European Union. In fact, Turkey has already signed a number of 
``agreements'' with the illegal Turkish regime that lay the groundwork 
for the eventual annexation of the occupied area.
  What Mr. Denktash and Turkey fail to understand is that acceptance to 
membership in the European Union must be earned on the basis of 
performance and achievement.
  Over the years, it has become obvious that the intransigence of 
Turkey on a just settlement of the Cyprus problem represents a strategy 
aimed at forcing Turkey's acceptance to membership in the European 
Union. Such membership has so far been denied for several reasons. 
First, is the fact that Turkey has not yet achieved the level of 
economic prowess deemed necessary for membership in the European Union. 
Second, the political system and the philosophy and practices of its 
governments over the past several decades do not conform with the 
democratic principles of the western world. Third, Turkey's record on 
respect of human rights and political freedom leaves a lot to be 
desired.
  Lastly, Turkey continues to reject proposals for a just and permanent 
solution of the problem of Cyprus, despite the European Parliament's 
position that membership is contingent upon resolution of the Cyprus 
problem.
  The recent dispute over Cyprus' plan to purchase defensive anti-
aircraft missiles to protect itself also demonstrates the bellicose 
posture of Turkey as opposed to the conciliatory stance of the 
Government of Cyprus. This incident clearly illustrates the need for a 
concerted effort to solve the problem of the divided Cyprus.
  Turkey objected to the planned deployment of the defensive missiles, 
falsely claiming that they represent a threat to its security. It also 
made clear its intention to use force to block this deployment.
  In response to these threats, the Government of Cyprus offered to 
cancel deployment if Turkey would resume serious and constructive 
reconciliation talks. Yet, the Turkish side remained intransigent in 
its refusal to renew negotiations and continued to threaten Cyprus with 
military action.
  In a remarkable gesture of good will, the Government of Cyprus 
eventually and unilaterally canceled the deployment of the missiles, 
forgoing its legitimate right to self-defense against Turkish 
aggression. It is regrettable that this conciliatory decision failed to 
bring the Turkish side to the negotiations table.
  Prolonging this explosive state of affairs in eastern Mediterranean 
is fraught with risks for all parties involved, including the United 
States. An armed conflict between Greece and Turkey over the Cyprus 
dispute remains a dire possibility. Such a conflict would have 
devastating consequences for peace and stability in that sensitive and 
highly volatile region.
  It is the interests of the United States, the countries involved in 
the dispute, as well as other neighboring countries to have this matter 
settled in a spirit of mutual respect.
  I, along with Representatives Maloney and Kelly, today introduced a 
bill that urges Turkey's compliance with all relevant United Nations 
resolutions relating to Cyprus. This bill also requests our 
administration to use its influence to persuade Turkey to accept the 
United Nation's Secretary General's invitation for negotiations without 
preconditions in the fall of 1999.
  To this end, I call upon the administration to focus its attention on 
the problem at hand and to apply the necessary diplomatic pressure on 
Turkey and Mr. Dektash in order to promote a peaceful and negotiated 
resolution of the dispute. If nothing else, history has taught us that 
neglecting a smoldering problem that has the potential of a major 
crisis, only makes its consequences more devastating. In the threshold 
of the third millennium, the United States can hardly afford to turn a 
blind eye to the Cyprus problem.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Mr. Bilirakis and 
Mrs. Maloney, who are the co-chairs of our congressional caucus on 
Hellenic issues, by organizing this special order on Cyprus and for 
their leadership on this issue.
  I rise today to acknowledge the 25th anniversary of Turkey's invasion 
and occupation of Cyprus. As a result, an estimated 35,000 heavily 
armed Turkish troops continue to occupy 37% of the island.
  Nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots, who fell victim to a policy of ethnic 
cleansing, were forcibly evicted from their homes and became refugees 
in their own country. Tragically, a quarter of a century later they are 
still refugees as they continue to be prevented by the Turkish 
occupation army from returning to their ancestral homes.
  To this day, over 1,600 Greek Cypriots--civilians, soldiers, women 
and children--including four Americans of Cypriot descent, have been 
missing since the Turkish invasion of 1974, and their fate is still 
unaccounted for. The Turkish Government refuses to provide any 
information of their status.
  In June, the leaders of the seven most industrialized countries and 
Russia, the G-8, urged the U.N. Secretary General to invite the leaders 
of the two sides to comprehensive negotiations without preconditions in 
the autumn of 1999. As the G-8 leaders stated recently in Cologne, 
``The Cyprus problem has gone unresolved for too long. Resolution of 
this problem would not only benefit all the people of Cyprus, but would 
also have a positive impact on peace and stability in the region.''
  Several rounds of negotiations have taken place which have failed, 
principally because of a lack of political will on the Turkish side and 
its refusal to abide by international law and to comply with Security 
Council resolutions which provide the framework for a solution. 
Moreover, Turkey has upgraded its military presence on the island, it 
has made repeated threats against the Republic of Cyprus for further 
military action and has spared no effort to block any progress toward a 
just and viable solution.
  If a solution is ever to be achieved, it is essential that the 
Turkish side respond positively to the call of the international 
community for a resumption of the negotiations without preconditions 
and within the agreed parameters.
  Sadly, Turkey continues to reject numerous gestures of goodwill by 
the Cyprus Government to facilitate the achievement of a solution. The 
Cyprus Government has canceled an order for the importation and 
deployment of a Russian defense air-to-missile system on Cyprus, and 
has put forward a comprehensive proposal for the complete 
demilitarization of the island, which has also been rejected by the 
Turkish side.
  The current status quo is unacceptable. It is imperative to take all 
necessary steps to actively support all efforts to end the forcible 
division of the island and its people and reunify Cyprus through a just 
and lasting solution. I urge Turkey to comply with the resolutions of 
the United Nations and to work constructively for a solution to the 
Cyprus problem. Twenty-five years of occupation are enough.
  Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to mark the 25th anniversary of 
Turkey's invasion of Cyprus.
  As Greek-Cypriots around the world mark a tragic day in their 
nation's history, hundreds of people joined hands in a circle of hope 
around the U.S. Capitol to ask for Congress' help in making Cyprus 
whole again.
  All the commemorations held today marking the 25th anniversary of 
Turkey's invasion of Cyprus highlight one of the great and continuing 
tragedies of the 20th century. With 37% of Cyprus currently occupied by 
Turkish forces, with 1,618 Greek-Cypriots still unaccounted for from 
the conflict, and with over 200,000 Cypriots displaced from their homes 
since 1974, it is long past time for the United States to lead the 
international community in addressing this great injustice.
  We, in this body, have passed resolution after resolution urging 
Turkey to withdraw its forces from Cyprus, urging Turkish-Cypriot 
leaders to renounce ``declarations of independence'' that they have 
issued in defiance of international law. And in the United Nations, the 
Security Council has consistently and forcefully urged Turkey to end 
its military occupation of over a third of the sovereign territory of 
the Republic of Cyprus. These efforts, coupled with vigorous diplomatic 
initiatives sponsored by the United States and the European Community, 
remain central to securing a final settlement that will end the 
artificial division of Cyprus.
  It is my firm belief that today and every day, Congress has solemn 
obligation to support a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus 
problem. A solution which must follow the precepts

[[Page 18110]]

laid down in United Nations Security Council 1250, which was adopted on 
June 29, 1999 and which in part reads, ``. . . a Cyprus settlement must 
be based on a State of Cyprus with a single sovereignty.'' In short, 
the House of Representatives should serve as a guiding force in the 
pursuit of a reunified Cyprus, an island nation where all citizens 
enjoy fundamental freedoms.
  Mr. Speaker, let me conclude by saying that I am of the belief that 
the solution to the Cyprus problem resides in the will of the United 
States and the international community to renounce the violence that 
divided Cyprus a quarter century ago and to affirm that the 
reunification of Cyprus is a priority. The resolutions concerning 
Cyprus that we in this body consider and pass, those passed by the EU 
and other distinguished international organizations, are all important. 
They are important because they uniformly call on Turkey to abide by 
international law by withdrawing its troops from Cyprus and in so 
doing, serving to advance a swift and certain resolution to the Cyprus 
problem. I support the speedy resolution of the Cyprus problem and look 
forward to a day when the unification, not the division, of Cyprus is 
celebrated in this body and around the world.
  Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, twenty-five years is too long. 
It is too long to be kept from your home. It is too long to be 
separated from family. It is too long to have children have to make the 
decision to go to school and never see their family again. Twenty-five 
years is too long.
  It is too long for Cyprus' rich 9,000 year-old cultural and religious 
heritage in the occupied part to be destroyed or plundered. It is too 
long to watch helplessly the continual stream of atrocities and human-
rights abuses. It is too long for the world to watch in silence and do 
nothing. Twenty-five years is too long.
  It is time to correct the injustice that has been occurring on 
Cyprus. It is time to return displaced Cypriots to their homes. It is 
time to reunite families. It is time to allow children to go to school. 
It is time try to restore the rich cultural and religious heritage of 
Cyprus.
  After 25 years, it is time for the United States to take a vocal role 
in speaking out against the division of Cyprus and the horrible 
atrocities that have happened there. That is why the Gentleman from 
Florida and I introduced a resolution today that urges compliance by 
Turkey with United Nations Resolutions on Cyprus.
  In the last year, the U.N. Security Council has passed four 
resolutions regarding the invasion of Cyprus. It is time that a Cyprus 
settlement is reached: Based on a single sovereignty and a single 
citizenship with its independence and territorial integrity safeguarded 
and compromised of two politically equal communities--a bicommunal and 
bizonal federation.
  The Republic of Cyprus has agreed to these conditions. It is time 
that Turkey come to the bargaining table without unacceptable 
preconditions and the idea of a confederation of two sovereign states. 
We have challenging work to do. But, with the help of everyone here, 
hopefully soon we will be celebrating the reunification of Cyprus 
instead of commemorating the invasion.
  Already there are 34 cosponsors of the bill. The momentum in Congress 
is growing. Take, for instance, the Hellenic Caucus. There are 75 
members of the Hellenic Caucus this year which is up from 69 last 
Congress.
  The momentum is here in Congress and we must continue that momentum 
and use our influence with Turkey to push them to bring real goals to 
the table instead of unviable preconditions.
  Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 25th anniversary of 
Turkey's invasion of Cyprus, and I rise with my colleagues to sadly 
commemorate this tragic event. I have always supported efforts, 
including legislation, calling for the end of the tragic separation of 
the island of Cyprus. I am proud to be a cosponsor of important 
legislation calling for a just and peaceful resolution to the current 
situation on Cyprus (H. Con. Res. 81), and have also called for an 
immediate end to the militarization of Cyprus. I have also written to 
President Clinton numerous times to point out instances of Turkish 
aggression on the island. Lastly, I have also supported the Republic of 
Cyprus's application for entry into the European Union.
  It goes without saying that the situation on Cyprus is of great 
importance to the United States and to me. The appointment of 
Ambassador Richard Beady as special emissary for Cyprus demonstrates 
this importance to the Clinton Administration. I believe that after 25 
years of stagnation, the situation on Cyprus demands a fair and 
comprehensive solution. The UN Security Council has condemned the 
declaration of independence by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 
and has called for the withdrawal of all Turkish troops. The Security 
Council also called on all states not to recognize the purported state 
of the ``Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.''
  In fact, no country in the world recognizes the so-called ``TRNC'' 
except for Turkey. UN resolutions since 1974 have called for the 
withdrawal of all foreign forces from Cyprus, the return of all 
refugees to their homes in safety, and respect for the sovereignty, 
independence, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of 
Cyprus. Several rounds of negotiation have taken place, all of which 
have failed because of a lack of political will on the Turkish side and 
its refusal to abide by international law and to comply with Security 
Council resolutions.
  Turkey has also continued to upgrade its military presence on Cyprus 
despite the fact that the Republic of Cyprus decided recently not to 
deploy Russian S-300 missiles on Cyprus. The TRNC has further blocked 
progress by setting two preconditions for the resumption of peace talks 
by requiring the recognition of the ``TRNC,'' and the withdrawal of 
Cyprus' application for membership in the European Union. Neither of 
these are acceptable to the Republic of Cyprus, and only serve to 
continue to block any kind of possible resolution.
  I therefore call on this Administration, in this 25th year, to take a 
hard sand on Cyprus, to help enable the people of Cyprus to live under 
a government chosen by their people. The United States must take the 
lead in finding a solution to Cyprus, and demonstrate to the world that 
people of different ethnic backgrounds and religious beliefs can 
successfully coexist. The people yearn for it and the country needs it.
  Mr. BLAGOJEVICH. Mr. Speaker, it has been twenty-five years since 
Turkish Troops invaded Cyprus, tearing that nation in two. And for 
those twenty-five years, the world community has repeatedly denounced 
the illegal Turkish invasion. Through various United Nations' 
resolutions, joint communiques, and other diplomatic statements, 
nations around the globe have sent the clear, unequivocal message that 
the Turkish occupation of Cyprus is patently illegal and must end.
  Nonetheless, Turkey continues to arrogantly ignore this unified 
message. Turkey chooses instead to complain that the world community is 
biased against it, but nothing could be further from the truth. The 
world community is simply asking that Turkey abide by the same 
obligations that all other peace-loving states accept. If Turkey 
expects to enjoy the privileges of a responsible member of the world 
community, it must also accept the responsibilities that come with this 
status.
  The time has come, Mr. Speaker, for the United States to say enough 
is enough. We can no longer continue to ignore the fact that Turkey 
flaunts the very values which America has fought wars to protect: 
namely democracy, human rights, and the sanctity of national borders. I 
urge the Administration to use all possible leverage to bring Turkey, 
like the rest of our NATO allies, into the fold of responsible, 
peaceful, democratic nations. This can only happen by bringing Turkey's 
occupation of Cyprus to an end.
  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman for Florida 
(Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentlelady from New York (Mrs. Maloney) for 
organizing this special order.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to once again add my voice to that of many 
others demanding the reunification of Cyprus. Twenty-five years is 
twenty-five years too long for our voices to go unheard.
  Defense Secretary Cohen said last week that he welcomes both sides of 
this conflict coming to the table to negotiate a settlement. What he 
did not say is that the Greek Cypriots have always been at the table. 
It is the Turkish Cypriots who have refused to negotiate until northern 
Cyprus is recognized as a sovereign nation. No country, except Turkey, 
has ever recognized northern Cyprus and no country should or ever will.
  Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash has defined himself, his side 
and Turkish policy by consistently obstructing reunification. In doing 
so, he consigns Turkish Cypriots to third class status--consigns the 
Turkish Cypriots to a standard of living far below those of the 
Republic of Cyprus, a status equal to that of most developing nations.
  Approximately 35,000 Turkish troops have occupied northern Cyprus for 
twenty-five years. During that time, Turkey's government has shown what 
it is. It is not a democracy. It is a military dictatorship, in which 
the generals allow as much democracy as they want.
  The Clinton Administration has clearly shown that its policy is one 
of not leaning on Turkey. It supports Turkey's application to the 
European Union even as Turkey continues to illegally occupy Cyprus, 
continues to persecute its Turkish population, continues to spurn 
normal relations with Armenia and continues to defy our policy of 
working with the Iraqi opposition to overthrow Saddam Hussein.

[[Page 18111]]

  The time has come for the U.S. to tell Turkey to sit down and 
negotiate on Cyprus. It is time for the Congress to send a message to 
the generals, to Rauf Denktash, and to President Clinton--Twenty-five 
years is twenty-five years too long.
  Mr. HORN. Mr. Speaker, most Americans and, indeed, most of the world, 
are remembering the historic landing on the moon by our brave 
astronauts 30 years ago today. This event will be remembered as one of 
the greatest events of this century and this millennium not only for 
the sheer technological leap that made it possible but also for the 
finest qualities of mankind that the journey to the moon exemplified. 
When one thinks of July 20th, one wants to believe in the best for 
mankind.
  Sadly, July 20th is also the anniversary of an occasion far less 
noble and inspiring. Twenty-five years ago, Turkey invaded Cyprus took 
control of almost 40 percent of the island. In the wake of Turkey's 
attack, 1,619 people--including five Americans--disappeared. Their fate 
remains unknown.
  Today, Turkish troops continue to occupy the northern portion of 
Cyprus, maintaining thousands of troops there in an affront to 
diplomacy and international law. Barbed-wire cuts across the Island 
separating thousands of Greek Cypriots from the towns and communities 
where their families had lived for generations.
  On a day when we remember the wonder and bravery of the moon landing, 
we must not forget the shame and cowardice of the illegal occupation of 
northern Cyprus. I join my colleagues here today in the hope that we 
will soon be able to remember the best of this century without a 
reminder of the worst.
  Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island. Mr. Speaker, I would like first to thank 
my colleague from Florida, Mr. Bilirakis, for this special order to 
commemorate and acknowledge the 25th anniversary of the Turkish 
occupation of the island of Cyprus.
  In the past decades we have witnessed many human rights violations 
such as in Kosovo and in East Timor. This has to change and this 
commemoration is a step towards change in Cyprus. The United States 
needs to show our strong support for a unified Cyprus. Until we bring 
about change, Cyprus and its people will continue to live divided into 
an island that has a North that is occupied by Turkish troops and an 
independent South.
  There is no reason why the Cypriots should become refugees in their 
own country or denied access back to their homes. July 20, 1974, was a 
dreadful day for the Cypriots. Many, until this day, do not know what 
happened to their families on that day.
  We have seen many changes around the world in the past years: The 
fall of the Berlin Wall, the beginning of peace in the Middle East, and 
the signing of a peace agreement in Northern Ireland. It is now time 
that Cyprus becomes part of the list so that freedom can prevail.
  I urge my fellow colleagues join in support for a unified Cyprus so 
that the necessary changes will occur.
  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, it has been 25 years since the Turkish 
invasion of Cyprus. In 1974, Turkish troops evicted 200,000 Greek 
Cypriots from their homes, making them refugees in their own country. 
And yet, the elapsing of a quarter century has not darkened the memory 
of the invasion. Turkey's continued violation of the Greek Cypriots' 
human rights, and the need for the reversal of Turkey's actions and a 
return to peace remains as strong today as it did in 1974.
  For 25 years, Turkey has fought to increase its grip on Cyprus. In 
violation of international law, Turkey has moved more than 80,000 
settlers into the ancestral homes of the Greek Cypriots. A campaign of 
harassment and the destruction of cultural sites has been used to 
intimidate the Greek Cypriots.
  Despite these abuses, the people of Cyprus struggle to seek a way for 
peace to grow. The Cypriot Government called for the demilitarization 
of Cyprus, even with the threat of the Turkish army occupying 37% of 
the island's territory. Cyprus sought to advance and develop by 
applying for membership to the European Union. Even as it is constantly 
confronted with uncertainty and instability, the Cypriot Government 
acts in the best interest of its people.
  The threat of force and noncompliance are used by Turkey to delay a 
peaceful resolution, even when the world community is calling for 
peace.
  This spring the members of the G-8 and the UN Security Council again 
called for negotiations for peace in Cyprus. To the international 
community, the bitterness over the invasion of 1974 remains as strong 
today as it did 25 years ago. For the Greek Cypriots, who struggle to 
move forward underneath the burden of human rights violations and 
refugee status, the desire for peace is unending. In the name of 
democracy and in the defense of human rights, we must continue to 
support the people of Cyprus in their efforts to bring peace and 
stability back to their country.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I commend the gentleman from Florida, Mr. 
Bilirakis, who has over the years assured us that this House does not 
fail to observe the events of July 1974 whose tragic consequences still 
persist today a quarter of a century later.
  The occupation of northern Cyprus by Turkish troops, which began some 
twenty-five years ago, has turned into one of the most vexing problems 
of the international community. It has confounded the efforts of five 
U.S. Presidents, four United Nations Secretaries General, and many of 
the world's top diplomats, including our own. Even the strong efforts 
last year of Ambassador Richard Holbrooke and Ambassador Tom Miller ran 
into a brick wall as Mr. Denktash, backed by the Turkish government, 
came up with new conditions before they would agree to resume 
negotiations with President Clerides. These conditions, as the Turkish 
side well understood, were non-starters--the Turks insisted that 
northern Cyprus be regarded as a sovereign entity, and the government 
of Cyprus halt negotiations on joining the EU.
  Although we are all disappointed that the hard-fought efforts of our 
envoys did not produce a breakthrough, we call upon our government and 
the international community not to abandon efforts to break the 
impasse. I agree with their assessment that the impasse is a result of 
the Turkish position, and that the key to breaking the current 
stalemate lies in Ankara. The Secretary General's invitation to the 
leaders of the two sides to begin talks on all the issues, without 
preconditions needs to be reinforced by our and other interested 
governments.
  The situation in Turkey is exceedingly complex: The recent elections 
have produced a coalition government whose partners are odd 
bedfellows--Center Left, Center Right with a junior member that has 
never been in government before but has espoused a radical and violent 
form of ultra-nationalism in the past. It is not likely that such a 
government will be strong enough to make the necessary compromises, and 
indeed we have already heard statements from Prime Minister Ecevit that 
he believes that the Cyprus problem no longer exists, that the the 
status quo is the solution. We don't know how to put the appropriate 
pressure on Turkey without giving the negative influences within 
Turkish society grounds to say that we have turned our backs on Turkey 
and are not truly interested in its integration into Europe and the 
West.
  The comments that the present situation on Cyprus--division of the 
island and 35,000 Turkish troops in occupation of one third--is the 
solution are completely unacceptable for the United States and the 
international community. It should also be unacceptable to Turkey 
because if partition is good for Cyprus, then why not for northern 
Iraq, or even the Kurdish areas of Turkey itself? Obviously the 
officials who make these ill-advised statements have not thought 
through the implications of partitioning Cyprus.
  When I came to the Congress some twenty-seven years ago, Cyprus was 
one of the first international crisis that I became involved with as a 
member of our Foreign Affairs Committee, as it was then called. It is 
one of the most frustrating facts that I face as I look back on my time 
in the House, that now after a quarter of a century, during which we 
have seen the collapse of communism in Europe, greater peace in the 
Middle East, a possible settlement in Northern Ireland, and conflicts 
resolved in the Balkan tinderbox, but no movement on Cyprus!
  Although we have hit a serious obstacle to progress, The United 
States has no choice but to continue our efforts to get serious 
negotiations between the parties on Cyprus resumed. I thank the 
gentleman for allowing me to participate in this Special Order.
  Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 25th 
anniversary of the invasion and forcible division of Cyprus. One 
quarter century after Turkish troops occupied Cyprus, beginning an 
unfortunate pattern of human rights violations, violence, and forcible 
evictions, thousands of Greek Cypriots are still unable to return to 
their ancestral homes, hundreds more are missing, and precious cultural 
and religious sites have been irreparably damaged.
  I believe, however, that renewed interest in the plight of occupied 
Cyprus will lead to positive diplomatic developments in the near 
future. Just last month, the leaders of the G-8 urged the U.N. 
Secretary General to invite the two sides to participate in 
comprehensive negotiations. The U.N. Security Council followed suit, 
adopting one resolution echoing this sentiment and another reiterating 
its commitment

[[Page 18112]]

to a final settlement which restores the territorial integrity and 
independence of Cyprus.
  It is my hope that in upcoming meetings, President Clerides of the 
Republic of Cyprus and Mr. Denktash of the Turkish Cypriots will honor 
both the spirit and letter of these resolutions, negotiating in good 
faith to reach a solution which will restore peace, freedom, and 
security to Cyprus.
  I urge all of my colleagues to continue their drive for a resolution 
to the problems plaguing Cyprus these 25 years. We are faced with an 
historic opportunity to reinforce the support for a settlement shown by 
the international community, and to bolster our allies in Greece and 
Turkey in their quest for peace. We must continue to keep the peace 
process in Cyprus at the forefront of our foreign affairs agenda if we 
are to put an end to a quarter century of terrible injustice for the 
people of Cyprus.
  Mr. MARTINEZ. Mr. Speaker, I join my friend, the distinguished 
gentleman from Florida, and my colleagues in commemorating the 25th 
anniversary of Turkey's military invasion and continued illegal 
occupation of northern Cyprus.
  On July 20, 1974, Turkey invaded northern Cyprus, forcing more than 
200,000 Greek Cypriots from their homes. Turkey's bloody invasion 
forced one-third of the population of the island to live as refugees. A 
quarter century has since passed and Turkish troops still occupy nearly 
40 percent of the island in defiance of a myriad of U.N. resolutions.
  Mr. Speaker, the 25th anniversary of Turkey's military occupation of 
northern Cyprus weighs heavily on the conscience of all civilized 
peoples of the world who share in the fundamental principle that 
military aggression must not prevail.
  Mr. Speaker, the status quo must be broken. The paralysis in U.N. 
sponsored negotiations must be broken. And the intercommunal strife 
that has torn Cypriots apart must be settled peacefully. But none of 
these worthy objectives can occur as long as Turkey continues to 
violate international law and flout U.N. resolutions condemning its 
oppressive occupation of 40 percent of Cypriot territory.
  It is indeed a sad testament to Turkey's intransigence that a quarter 
of a century after its invasion of northern Cyprus, it still maintains 
tens of thousands of troops on the island. Turkey must realize that its 
military occupation of northern Cyprus stands as an obstacle to a just 
and permanent solution of the Cypriot problem.
  Mr. Speaker, any permanent solution to the Cypriot impasse must take 
into consideration the anxieties and legitimate concerns of both Greek 
and Turkish Cypriots. However, the first step toward reconciliation and 
peaceful reunification must be the end of Turkey's illegal occupation 
of northern Cyprus.
  Mr. COYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 
the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish military forces.
  Despite overwhelming condemnation from the international community, 
Turkish forces have occupied northern Cyprus for the last 25 years. On 
July 20, 1974, Rauf Denktash, supported by over thirty thousand Turkish 
troops, took control of 37 percent of the island and proclaimed it to 
be the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. During the invasion, 
Turkish troops murdered over 5,000 Greek Cypriots, evicted 200,000 
Greek Cypriots from their ancestral homes and captured five Americans 
and 1,614 Greek Cypriots, all of whom, with just one exception, are 
still missing.
  The United Nations has always recognized the Greek Cypriot government 
as the legitimate government of the island, while Turkey remains the 
only country that recognizes Mr. Denktash's government and supports it 
with a strong military scattered throughout the northern third of 
Cyprus. The Turkish Cypriot government has repeatedly refused to 
negotiate a peaceful solution to the conflict.
  In the past years, the international community has attempted to 
encourage Turkey to alter its policy on the Cyprus conflict. Most 
recently, the United Nations Security Council passed resolutions in 
December of 1998, calling for a staged process aimed at limiting and 
then substantially reducing the level of all troops and armaments on 
Cyprus. Furthermore, the United Nations has advised that for there ever 
to be lasting peace on the island, a Cyprus settlement must be based on 
a Cyprus with a single sovereignty, a single international personality, 
and a single citizenship.
  Mr. Denktash, however, has rejected these UN resolutions on grounds 
that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus should be recognized by 
the international community as a legal and sovereign state. Denktash 
has also refused to meet with the internationally recognized president 
of Cyprus, Glafcos Clerides, until his Turkish Cypriot state is 
recognized as independent.
  It is my belief that the international community must persuade the 
Turkish government--Rauf Denktash--to resume negotiations and to work 
diligently toward a peaceful solution to this 25 year old conflict. The 
United States must make it clear that it is willing to use foreign aid, 
sanctions, and its power as a member of several international 
organizations to elicit a resolution. Mr. Speaker, we must acknowledge 
our position as a world leader and remain firmly committed to promoting 
peace and reconciliation on the island of Cyprus.
  Mr. McGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, this year marks 25 years of continued 
injustice, 25 years of human rights violations, the displacement of 
people from their homes, of ethnic cleansing. This year marks the 25th 
year of Turkey's illegal invasion of northern Cyprus, the division of 
an island, a community, a culture, and a religion more than 9,000 years 
old.
  In the last 25 years, about 40,000 Turkish troops have been stationed 
in Cyprus; 85,000 Turkish colonists have been moved to northern Cyprus, 
where they live in the houses of the more than 200,000 Cypriots forced 
out of their homes. We must all ask ourselves why such an unjust 
situation has been allowed to persist for a quarter of a century.
  After 25 years, some might be tempted to throw in the towel, to 
become resigned to the Turkish occupation. After 25 years, some might 
feel that the international community is helpless to act in the face of 
such aggression and injustice. But they would be wrong. The United 
States and its international partners must not adopt such an attitude. 
For the cause of a united and free Cyprus is not lost. And it is 
important, now more than ever, for all of us to continue and strengthen 
our support for a peace agreement in Cyprus. Members of this House must 
continue to pressure the Administration to urge the Turkish government 
to reach a peace agreement. To date, Turkey has rejected every attempt 
to move forward on a peace settlement.
  There is reason, however, to hope that peace can be achieved. Both 
Turkey and Cyprus have applied for admission to the European Union. 
Turkey is bitter that their application has been rejected, while Cyprus 
is close to being accepted into the EU.
  It would serve Turkey well to reflect on how its own actions work 
against its acceptance. For example, the Turkish Cypriot community was 
invited by the government of Cyprus to participate in the Cyprus-EU 
negotiations; they declined the invitation. Turkey has made no effort 
to come to an agreement, and has recently made the situation more 
difficult to resolve. Turkey has established a puppet government on 
Cyprus, that is not recognized by any other nation except Turkey. 
Turkey has increased its military presence on Cyprus, retains a large 
armor advantage over the Cypriots, and threatened military action. 
Cyprus, on the other hand, does not even have a Navy, Army or Air 
Force, and only maintains a small National Guard.
  The United States and the international community must take greater 
action. A moment of opportunity exists with the desire of Cyprus and 
Turkey to enter the European Union. We must live up to the promises we 
have made to the people of Cyprus. The acceptance of Cyprus into the 
European Union will benefit all the communities of Cyprus. We should 
strive to see a united Cyprus join the EU and have that action serve as 
a catalyst for regional economic, political and humanitarian 
advancement. A step in that direction is continuing the $15 million in 
U.S. assistance for bi-communal projects and scholarships in Cyprus.
  I urge my colleagues to join those of us who are members of the 
Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues to work more forcefully than 
ever to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Cyprus, to 
help return to their homes the some 200,000 Greek-Cypriots who were 
evicted from their land, to demilitarize the Turkish forces in northern 
Cyprus, and to find out the fate of the 1,614 Greek-Cypriots and the 5 
American citizens who have been ``missing'' since the Turkish invasion.
  I want to thank Congressman Bilirakis and Congresswoman Maloney for 
their leadership on and dedication to this issue. I know they hope, as 
I do, that next year we will gather together on the floor of this House 
to praise a peace agreement for a united Cyprus.
  Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join with my colleagues in 
marking the 25th Black Anniversary of Turkey's invasion of the island 
of Cyprus. On July 20, 1974, the government of Turkey sent troops to 
Cyprus and forcefully assumed control of more than one-third of the 
island. This action dislocated nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots, forcibly 
evicting them from their homes and creating a refugee problem that 
exists to this day. Additionally, over 1600 Greek Cypriots are still 
missing or unaccounted for as a result of this brutal invasion.
  The Turkish Cypriot community has continually shown its unwillingness 
to move toward

[[Page 18113]]

a negotiated settlement with their Greek neighbors. The removal of the 
roughly 35,000 Turkish troops from the island of Cyprus is central to 
any such agreement, as is compliance with the previously agreed upon 
parameters for any solution. However, the Turkish government is doing 
the exact opposite. They have continued their arms buildup on the 
island, have abandoned reconciliation efforts begun on a bi-communal 
grassroots level, have added two new preconditions for resumption of 
the peace talks and are now seeking the creation of a confederation of 
two sovereign states. The net result of these actions is to make any 
sort of rapproachment all the more unlikely.
  The Greek Cypriots, have continually demonstrated their flexibility 
and willingness to compromise in order to bring an end to this long-
standing dispute. The Cyprus government has made numerous gestures of 
goodwill in an effort to move the peace process forward. In the last 
year, they have canceled the deployment of a Russian defensive surface-
to-air missile system on Cyprus in an effort to head off any escalation 
of this conflict. In addition, Cyprus has continued to comply with the 
preconditions established by the United Nations Security Council 
resolutions, and has even put forth a plan for demilitarization of the 
island.
  However, these efforts have failed to produce any movement toward an 
agreement. The U.S. government must again take bold steps to show its 
continued resolve to the Turkish government that it is serious about 
moving toward peace on Cyprus. In this regard, I am pleased to be a 
cosponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 100 urging the compliance by 
Turkey with United Nations resolutions relating to Cyprus. It is 
essential that the United States and the entire international community 
continue to work for the long awaited resolution to this tragic event.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with decisive steps such as these that we can 
begin to hope for a brighter future for Cyprus. I wish to commend the 
Gentleman from Florida. Mr. Bilirakis, for his steadfast work in this 
area. I look forward to working with him, and all my colleagues who 
share our concerns, to achieve a unified and peaceful Cyprus in the 
future.
  Mr. WEYGAND. Mr. Speaker, 25 years ago today, Turkish troops advanced 
into the Republic of Cyprus and forcefully occupied the island. Today, 
Cyprus remains divided with heavily armed Turkish troops occupying 
approximately 37 percent of the Island. Over the past twenty five years 
there have been signs of hope only to be shattered by statements or 
displays of aggression resulting in increased tensions and little 
progress toward resolving the conflict over Cyprus.
  Last month, the G-8 countries, at their meeting in Cologne, urged the 
UN to encourage the resumption of negotiations, stalled since 1997, in 
the Fall of this year. As a result, the UN Security Council passed 
resolution 1251 calling for ``. . . all States to respect the 
sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of 
Cyprus, and requesting them, along with the parties concerned, to 
refrain from any action which might prejudice that sovereignty, 
independence and territorial integrity, as well as from any attempt at 
partition of the island or its unification with any other country.''
  The Republic of Cyprus has on many occasions offered an olive branch 
to end this conflict. The Republic of Cyprus has offered to 
demilitarize the entire island, and has canceled an order of a surface-
to-air missile system. Turkey has rejected these overtures and in fact 
continues to upgrade its military presence on Cyprus and seeks to 
purchase $4 billion worth of attack helicopters.
  Mr. Speaker, throughout its history the United States of America has 
stood firmly against the forces of oppression and aggression across the 
globe. We should continue to advocate and support a peaceful resolution 
to the problem in Cyprus. As a cosponsor of H. Con. Res. 80, I continue 
to urge the President to take steps to end the restrictions of freedoms 
on the enclaved people of Cyprus by the Turkish-Cypriots and to work 
with our allies to peacefully resolve this unfortunate situation.
  As the millennium is upon us, it is my sincere hope that we will see 
significant progress toward a unified Cyprus obtained by peaceful 
means. This can only improve the economic and political stability of 
the region, which is undoubtedly in the national security and economic 
interests of the United States.
  Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 25th 
anniversary of the invasion of the Republic of Cyprus. Since the 
beginning of this invasion, nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots have been 
evicted from their homes and forced from the land where they worked, 
lived, and raised their families for over 9,000 years.
  Today, less than 1,000 Greek Cypriots reside in Northern Cyprus, even 
though a 1975 humanitarian agreement would have allowed 20,000 Greek 
Cypriots and Maronites to stay in Northern Cyprus. It is truly a 
tragedy that so few of the original residents of Northern Cyprus remain 
in their homeland. The basic rights that we take for granted in the 
United States have been denied to these citizens.
  Now, 25 years after this tragedy, I hope that a resolution can be 
found that will reunify this island nation that has been torn apart for 
so long. I join the call of Glafcos Clerides, the President of the 
Republic of Cyprus, who on Sunday called upon all in Cyprus to strive 
for a settlement that will ``heal the wounds of the past.'' Mr. 
Speaker, I stand before you today in hopes that a settlement will be 
found, one that will bring lasting peace and unity to the entire Island 
of Cyprus. After 25 years, we must remember the suffering this invasion 
has caused, and strive for a peaceful future in Cyprus.
  Mr. CAPUANO. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 25th anniversary of a 
tragically historical point in Greek-Turkish-Cypriot relations. On July 
20, 1974, Turkish troops began a campaign to forcibly evict nearly 
200,000 Greek Cypriots from their homes in the northern part of the 
island of Cyprus. During the invasion, more than 1,600 men, women and 
children vanished, and to this day, the Turkish government refuses to 
provide information as to their whereabouts. After twenty-five years, 
Greek Cypriots are still prohibited from returning to their homes and 
remain refugees within their own country.
  Turkey has actively worked to change the demographic structure in 
Northern Cyprus by resettling 80,000 Turkish citizens there, mostly in 
the homes of evacuated Greek Cypriots. Additionally, in 1983, Turkey 
encouraged a ``unilateral declaration of independence'' by the Turkish 
Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). This declaration was condemned by 
the U.N. Security Council, as well as the U.S. government. To date the 
TRNC is not officially recognized as a sovereign State by any country 
except for Turkey.
  In light of the recent atrocities against the Kosovar people, it is 
time to confront the Turkish aggression against Greek Cypriots. With 
several failed attempts at a peaceful settlement on the island, the 
Greek Cypriots continue to suffer. The few remaining Greek Cypriots 
living in the TRNC are forbidden to attend school or work, seek medical 
assistance, or visit families living in the Republic of Cyprus. In 
blatant violation of international laws, Turkey has subjected these 
people to harassment and intimidation and violated their basic human 
rights.
  Despite the continuing efforts on behalf of the U.S. and the 
international community to negotiate a peaceful settlement, 35,000 
heavily armed Turkish troops continue to occupy more than one-third of 
the island. In an interview on Turkish television this past Sunday, 
July 12, a government official claimed that ``the Cyprus problem ceased 
existing after the creation of the Turkish Cypriot state,'' and that 
``the entire world has to understand the reality of an independent 
Turkish state on Cyprus.''
  Clearly, Mr. Speaker, this is an affront to countless .U.N 
resolutions calling on Turkey to withdraw its forces and return all 
refugees to their homes, and for Turkey to respect the sovereignty, 
independence, and territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of 
Cyprus. This is an insult to the United States and the global community 
which has worked tirelessly to unify Greek and Turkish Cypriots in a 
peaceful manner.
  In light of the recent remarks by the Turkish Government, we must 
reflect upon the tragic incident that occurred 25 years ago when Turkey 
illegally invaded the Cypriot island. Despite these setbacks, the U.S. 
and the international community must continue to work to find a 
peaceful solution to this conflict that has torn Cyprus apart.
  Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember 25th ``black 
anniversary'' of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Even today, an 
estimated 35,000 troops from Turkey continue to occupy 37 percent of 
Cyprus' territory.
  This invasion was a violation of international law that resulted in 
the forced eviction of nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots, making them 
refugees in their own country. These individuals are still unable to 
return to their homes. 1,618 Greek Cypriots, including four Americans 
of Cypriot descent, have been missing since the Turkish invasion, and 
their fate is still unaccounted for. Additionally, the Turks destroyed 
Byzantine churches and plundered much of Cyprus' rich 9,000 year-old 
cultural and religious heritage.
  The United Nations has issued several resolutions calling for the 
withdrawal of all foreign forces from the island, the return of the 
refugees to their homes and respect for the sovereignty, independence, 
territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus. Despite 
these

[[Page 18114]]

pleas, the government of Turkey in 1983 set up a puppet government in 
the area under its military occupation and effectively seceded from the 
island Republic, calling itself the Turkish Republic of Northern 
Cyprus. Turkey is the only nation to recognize this ``republic''.
  The Cyprus government, over the course of the last 25 years, has 
attempted to each out to the Turkish Cypriot community through 
dialogue, bicommunal contacts at local levels, and offers to cooperate 
in negotiations regarding Cyprus' accession to the European Union. 
Unfortunately, all efforts have been rebuffed.
  After a quarter of a century of failed efforts to end this illegal 
military occupation of over a third of the sovereign territory of the 
Republic of Cyprus, hope is in sight. The international community is 
calling for a new round of comprehensive negotiations this fall to find 
a settlement reuniting the island in one federal, sovereign state. It 
is obvious that the pressure of the international community on rogue 
governments can yield positive results. One need only to look upon the 
recent NATO action in Kosovo to realize that the international 
community has the diplomatic wherewithal to forge a successful solution 
to this crisis; all that is needed is the will. For the sake of peace 
and stability in the region and the world at large, now is the time for 
a just and lasting peaceful resolution.
  Mr. McNULTY. A 25th anniversary is supposed to be a happy occasion. 
Not so for the Greek-Cypriots. For them it marks the forcible division 
of Cyprus and the invasion of their beloved island by Turkey in 1974.
  In the last quarter century, Turkish invaders forced nearly 200,000 
Greek Cypriots from their homes to become refugees in their own land.
  For example, the 1975 Vienna III Agreement would have permitted 
20,000 Greek Cypriots and Maronites to remain to live normal lives in 
the Turkish occupied Karpas Peninsula and the Maronite villages. Today, 
only 500 enclaved Greek Cypriots and 160 Maronites are in the occupied 
area.
  There are reports of all kinds of harassments and violations of civil 
rights and liberties, including the destruction of Byzantine churches 
and other places of worship. Turkish restrictions abound--on travel, 
education and religious practices.
  This situation is unacceptable.
  And yet, despite all the Turkish abuses, the Government of Cyprus 
continues to reach out for a peaceful solution.
  The Greek Cypriots want peace. Recently, the United Nations Security 
Council adopted resolutions 1217 and 1218, calling for a peaceful, 
just, and lasting solution to the Cyprus problem. The United States 
Government wholeheartedly supports these resolutions and is committed 
to taking all necessary steps to help in its achievement.
  In the final analysis, only the parties to a dispute can settle it. 
Ultimately, it will be Cyprus and Turkey who will have to agree on a 
settlement.
  The Government of Cyprus is willing to come to the negotiating table.
  I urge our Government to continue to press ahead to persuade Turkey 
to comply with the Security Council resolution and to come to the 
negotiating table to work out a solution to this nettling problem.
  There is no quick fix to the Cyprus problem. But we must persevere.
  A solution can only benefit the entire Mediterranean region.

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