Invasion of Cyprus

Floor Speech

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to draw attention to the anniversary of Turkey's invasion of Cyprus, which occurred on July 20, 1974. In violation of international law, Turkish troops occupied the northern part of Cyprus, and established an armed force that continues to occupy nearly over one third of Cyprus' territory.

The invasion and continuing occupation of the northern part of the island has resulted in the continuing presence of a force of thousands of Turkish troops, mass violation of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the Cypriot people, and the destruction of cultural and religious artifacts. On September 28, 2010, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed H. Res. 1631 which calls for the protection of religious sites and artifacts from and in Turkish-occupied areas of northern Cyprus, as well as for general respect for religious freedom.

Over the years, Cyprus has proven itself to be a reliable partner of the U.S. Throughout the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, Cyprus has provided over-flight and landing rights to United States aircraft and port access for U.S. ships. Furthermore, during the Lebanon crisis of 2006, Cyprus served as the principal transit location for people evacuating Lebanon, including some 15,000 U.S. citizens.

Cyprus and the U.S. also share a deep and abiding commitment to upholding the ideals of freedom, democracy, justice, human rights, and the international rule of law. It is time for Turkey to share this goal with the Government of the Republic of Cyprus and work earnestly and constructively with the Cypriots for a true reunification of the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as defined in the relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Such a solution would not only serve the best interests of all Cypriots, but ultimately the interests of the U.S. in promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The aim remains to work towards a solution which will establish a bicommunal, bizonal federation with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Cypriots.

Source