In Support of a Resolution of the Cyprus Issue

Floor Speech

Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues in calling for a resolution of what seems to have become the never-ending division of the island of Cyprus. I speak not of a resolution that casts blame for what has gone before, but one that reunites both Cypriot communities and allows the island as a whole to chart a path forward within the international community.

In much of the historical rhetoric surrounding this issue, what sometimes gets lost is that all Cypriots--Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots--have legitimate grievances. Any resolution of the Cyprus question must respect the rights of all Cypriots. All Cypriots must be allowed to participate freely in the island's national life. Finally, the international isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community must come to an end. The overwhelming vote ten years ago by Turkish Cypriots to end the status quo and for the Annan Plan underlines the ridiculousness of Turkish Cypriot isolation.

As we observe this year the 40th anniversary of the island, and the 10th anniversary of the vote on the Annan Plan, the fact remains that two generations of Greek and Turkish Cypriots have known nothing but the status quo. It cannot be maintained for future generations. I call on the Administration and my colleagues to support and encourage the ongoing dialogue between both communities, so that a comprehensive settlement that encourages reunion and reconciliation can be secured.

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