Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise in remembrance of the disastrous invasion of Turkish armed forces into the Republic of Cyprus. On this day, 37 years ago, Turkish soldiers began the forcible expulsion of approximately 200,000 Greek Cypriots from the island's northern territory. It is in support of the liberty and human dignity of those evicted that I stand to address my colleagues today. At this moment, there are more than 43,000 Turkish troops on Cyprus-- that is roughly one Turkish solider for every two Turkish Cypriots. And regrettably, their presence continues to perpetuate the usurpation, occupation, and destruction of Greek Cypriot-owned property. So too continues the egregious desecration of Greek Orthodox churches and religious artifacts that are not only sacred to millions of faithful believers, but also beautiful and irreplaceable historic sites and objects of inherent cultural value to all of humanity. Since 1974, more than 75 resolutions have been adopted by the United Nations Security Council calling for the withdrawal of Turkish troops from Cyprus and the return of refugees to their homes and properties. Yet despite 37 frustrating years of diplomatic stops and starts, a procession of U.N. special representatives and envoys, and untold hours of negotiations, Turkey continues to occupy this region in complete violation of international law.…”