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Pallone on the Anniversary of Turkey’s Invasion of Cyprus |
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Washington, D.C. - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Tuesday inserted the following statement in the Congressional Record recognizing the 36th Anniversary of Turkey’s illegal invasion of Cyprus.
“Madam Speaker, today I join my colleagues on the House floor to remember the 36th anniversary of Turkey's illegal occupation of Cyprus.
“On July 20th, 1974, Turkey invaded Cyprus in violation of international law and at great cost to the citizens of Cyprus. Turkish troops established a heavily-armed force which occupied the northern part of Cyprus and continues to occupy close to 37 percent of Cyprus’ territory. The invasion forced nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots to flee their homes---making one-third of the Cypriot population refugees in their own country.
“Today, Turkey continues to illegally occupy northern Cyprus with a force of 43,000 troops. This unbelievable number of troops amounts to almost one Turkish soldier for every two Turkish Cypriots. This military occupation flies in defiance of international pressure to achieve a peaceful settlement.
“Beyond the military occupation of northern Cyprus it is important to consider the mass colonization which has resulted in 160,000 Turkish mainland settlers illegally living on property owned by Greek Cypriots or even U.S. citizens. Once again this illegal colonization comes despite international pressure on Turkey to take action to stop the illegal occupation and ensure the return of properties to their rightful owners.
“In fact, since 1974 more than 75 resolutions have been adopted by the U.N. Security Council and more than 13 by the U.N. General Assembly calling for a withdrawal of Turkish troops and the return of refugees to their rightful homes. However, the Turkish government continues to remain defiant, plainly ignoring these calls to withdraw.
“In recent months we have continued to see Turkey pursue policies that not only hurt its relations with nations that should serve as true democratic allies, but also policies that hurt regional relations and stability. I have been an outspoken opponent of Turkey’s irresponsible regional relations, which in many ways negatively affect the U.S. Whether it is the illegal blockade on its border with Armenia, the failure to take proper recourse to investigate a domestic group that incited a deadly incident with Israeli troops, their continued violations of Greek airspace or their illegal occupation of northern Cyprus, Turkey disrespects international law and regional partners of the United States.
“There comes a time when the United States must say enough is enough and take principled steps to prevent further destabilizing actions. As a member of the Hellenic Caucus, I have long advocated for the withdrawal of Turkish forces from northern Cyprus and called on Turkey to support a settlement that comes from the Cypriots themselves.
“The US must do its part to foster a united Cyprus. It is in the best interest of the United States, and I believe all involved parties to ensure that the goal is a reunified Cyprus where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots live together in peace and security. A successful settlement effort must build on the work towards a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality that represents U.N. Security Council resolutions. In the end, Cyprus must have a single sovereignty and single citizenship which all Cypriots can enjoy.
“Now is the time for Turkey to show that they are willing to take a sincere approach to allowing a peaceful resolution to the dispute. The leadership in Ankara must show that the will and support behind a peaceful settlement is in the best interest of Turkey and that it is fully supported. Without such a signal by the government of Turkey, a final settlement will continue to dwindle as Turkish settlers pursue the policies of their home nation.
“It is now thirty-six years since the illegal Turkish invasion and subsequent occupation of Cyprus. However, the resolve has never been greater to ensure that Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots alike benefit from a united nation that affords them the stability and security that all citizens deserve. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus has shown their willingness to work constructively with the Cypriots towards a reunified island. It is time for Turkey to do the same.
“Last Congress, I introduced the bipartisan American Owned Property in Occupied Cyprus Claims Act. Through this legislation, Americans who are being denied access to their property and even their ancestral homes will finally be able to seek restitution. I am currently working with different stakeholders to strengthen this bill before reintroduction.
“Madam Speaker, as we remember the 36th Anniversary of Turkey's illegal invasion and occupation of Cyprus, I remain hopeful a united Cyprus can become a reality. However, the United States can not be complacent in this goal.” |
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