    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book I)]
    [June 25, 1997]
    [Pages 820-821]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Cyprus
    June 25, 1997

    Dear Mr. Speaker:  (Dear Mr. Chairman:)
        In accordance with Public Law 95-384 (22 U.S.C. 2373(c)), I submit
    to you this report on progress toward a negotiated settlement of the
    Cyprus question. The previous submission covered progress through
    January 31, 1997. The current submission covers the period February 1,
    1997, through March 31, 1997.
        The highlight of this reporting period was the start of U.N.-
    sponsored proximity talks on the island. The United States strongly
    supported efforts by the United Nations to engage the two Cypriot
    leaders productively in these talks in preparation for direct
    negotiations. We have stated our support for the U.N.'s undertaking on
    several occasions and have urged both leaders to seize the opportunity
    to demonstrate their commitment to the reconciliation process.
        Although his appointment fell outside the current reporting period,
    I am very pleased that Richard Holbrooke will serve as my Special
    Presidential Emissary for Cyprus. He assumes his duties at a time when
    tensions on the island have eased due to the overflight moratorium
    recently agreed to by the parties, as well as their agreement to begin
    the U.N.-sponsored direct talks in early July. I have asked Ambassador
    Holbrooke to use his proven negotiating skills and superb knowledge of
    the region to support the U.N. efforts.
        Sincerely,

                                                          William J. Clinton

    Note: Identical letters were sent to Newt Gingrich, Speaker of the House
    of Representatives, and Jesse Helms, chairman, Senate Committee on
    Foreign Relations.

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