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Commemoration of the 34th Anniversary of the Invasion of Cyprus

Date: July 22, 2008
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Foreign Affairs Arts, Entertainment, and History


COMMEMORATION OF THE 34TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INVASION OF CYPRUS -- HON. JOHN R. CARTER (Extensions of Remarks - July 22, 2008)

HON. JOHN R. CARTER
OF TEXAS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Tuesday, July 22, 2008

* Mr. CARTER. Madam Speaker, 34 years ago, Turkish troops invaded the Island of Cyprus, resulting in the death and displacement of thousands of Greek and Turkish Cypriot citizens; leaving behind a state of conflict within a civilization that can trace its history back more than ten thousand years. A 113-mile long divide was created as the Turks began their occupation of one third of the island, which exists to present day.

* Today, we recognize this tragic event, but we also look at, with hope, the future that lies ahead.

* As part of a congressional delegation last November, other members of Congress and I discussed this long-standing conflict and the path toward resolution with members of the Cyprus government. I am encouraged by the recent overtures made by leaders on both sides of the Cyprus question.

* I am hopeful that the meetings between President Christofias and Mr. Talat will continue, and that the work of the mutually established Working Groups and Technical Communities may ultimately lead to a unified Cypriot nation.

* I am confident that through tolerance, compromise and the continuation of diplomatic efforts, lasting solutions to the remaining differences will be attained.


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