Commemorating the 42nd anniversary of the independence of the republic of cyprus

Monday, October 7, 2002

Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, last week, we commemorated the 42d anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus. In 1960, Cyrus claimed sovereignty over its territory following 80 years of British colonial rule, and since that time, it has been a close friend of the United States.

Cyprus now stands as the leading candidate country for membership in the European Union (EU). On September 30th 2002, the EU's Enlargement Commissioner stated that Cyprus complies with all political and economic conditions required for membership. The Government-controlled areas of Cyprus enjoy an atmosphere of economic prosperity and political freedom, allowing its people to enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the world.

Unfortunately, the northern portions of the island have been occupied by Turkish troops for more than 28 years, and an illegitimate government was set up there to rule an illegitimate state that only Turkey has recognized. As many as 35,000 Turkish troops remain to keep this government viable.

The United States must maintain pressure on the Turkish side to end its illegal occupation of Cyprus and allow the people of that island to resolve the problem without outside interference. Too often, Turkey seeks to use its occupation as a veto over the legitimate aspirations of the Cyprus government, including its bid to join the EU.
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EU accession will have immeasurable benefits for the people of Cyprus, both Greek and Turkish, and will serve as a catalyst for peaceful resolution of the conflict. Unfortunately, not everyone believes that the accession of Cyprus to the EU is a good idea. In fact, Turkey and its illegitimate child, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, have opposed Cyprus' membership in the EU on the grounds that this would allow Cyprus in turn to veto Turkey's EU membership bid. It is my belief that the reunification of Cyprus would serve the interests of all parties. The EU has rightfully stated that a resolution to the division of Cyprus is by no means a precondition to its accession to the EU, and I am proud that the United States has taken the same position.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to commemorate the 42d anniversary of the Independence of Cyprus and to work for the peaceful resolution of the division of the island and its successful accession to the EU.