Barbara Mikulski: “I am proud to join Senator Snowe in submitting the Enclaved People of Cyprus concurrent resolution. This legislation…”

“I am proud to join Senator Snowe in submitting the Enclaved People of Cyprus concurrent resolution. This legislation puts the Congress on record in support of human rights and freedom for all the people of Cyprus. In 1974 Turkish troops invaded Cyprus and divided the island. For 23 years, the people of Cyprus have lived under an immoral and illegal occupation. The enclaved people in the northern part of the island have suffered most. Their travel is restricted. They may not attend the school of their choice. Their access to their religious sites is restricted. They are often harassed and discriminated against. The United Nations and the European Union have documented these human rights abuses and have called on the Turkish Cypriots to respect the basic freedoms of the Greek-Cypriots and Maronites living in the northern part of the island. Our foreign policy must reflect our values. The legislation we are introducing calls for an end to the restrictions on the freedoms of the enclaved people in the occupied part of Cyprus. It states that Congress will remain active until the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the enclaved people of Cyprus are restored, respected and safeguarded. Mr. President, I am hopeful that this year we will bring peace to Cyprus. But our efforts to improve human rights on the island cannot wait. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation.”