[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23909]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   THE 43RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 1, 2003

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
commemorate the 43rd anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of 
Cyprus. On October 1, 1960, Cyprus became an independent republic after 
decades of British colonial rule.
  Over the last decades, Cyprus and the United States have established 
close political, economic and social ties, developing a valued 
friendship. Both countries gained their independence from Great 
Britain, and now each country celebrates the anniversary of that 
independence as their national holiday. More significantly, Cyprus and 
the United States share a deep and abiding commitment to democracy, 
fundamental human rights, free markets, and the ideal and practice of 
equal justice under law.
  The relationship between Cyprus and the United States is strong and 
enduring. The people of Cyprus appreciate the leadership that America 
has shown in trying to end the division of Cyprus and bring about 
reunification. At the same time, the people of Cyprus stand with the 
American people and share in the firm resolve to uphold the ideals of 
freedom, justice and democracy threatened by the forces of 
international terrorism.
  The government of Cyprus has pledged to cooperate fully with the Bush 
Administration in the battle against terrorism. Cypriots do not stand 
indifferent and passive in responding to heinous acts that target our 
sense of security, our civil liberties and our faith in the democratic 
process. Having achieved its independence after a bitter fight to 
uphold freedom and democracy, Cyprus understands that great 
determination and unity are needed in order to safeguard the treasured 
ideals we share.
  As the Republic of Cyprus celebrates its 43rd Independence Day, I 
share the Cypriot's joy for having created a prosperous, open society 
based on solid foundations. Furthermore, I believe this is an 
opportunity for the United States of America and Cyprus to come closer 
together, as we stand united in our resolve to fight the battle on 
terrorism. As we move forward, I am confident that our friendship will 
continue well into the future.

                          ____________________