[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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