    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [March 7, 2000]
    [Page 400]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Cyprus
    March 7, 2000

    Dear Mr. Speaker:  (Dear Mr. Chairman:)
        In accordance with Public Law 95-384 (22 U.S.C. 2373(c)), I submit
    to you a report on progress toward a negotiated settlement of the Cyprus
    question covering the period December 1, 1999, to January 31, 2000. The
    previous submission covered events during October and November 1999.
        The United Nations convened 12 days of intensive talks to resolve
    the Cyprus dispute in early December. United Nations Secretary General
    Annan reported that both parties engaged
    seriously on the whole range of issues that divide them. My Special
    Envoy for Cyprus, Alfred H. Moses, and his
    team provided critical diplomatic support for the United Nations efforts
    to reach a comprehensive settlement.
        Talks resumed in Geneva on January 31 where United Nations Special
    Advisor Alvaro de Soto held a series of
    meetings with both sides. The parties will continue discussions on May
    23 in New York. We welcome this important process, and we will continue
    to work with the United Nations to reach a solution for all Cypriots
    based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation.
            Sincerely,

                                                          William J. Clinton

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