Benjamin Gilman: “today we are observing a tragic occasion, the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish troops. I commend the gentleman from Florida…”

“today we are observing a tragic occasion, the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish troops. I commend the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) who has, over the years, made certain that the House does not fail to observe the events of July 1974, the tragic consequences of which still persist today, more than a quarter of a century later. The occupation of northern Cyprus by Turkish troops which began some 26 years ago has turned into one of the most vexing problems of the international community, confounding the efforts of five presidents, four U.N. Secretaries General, and many of the world's top diplomats, including our own. Late last year, we finally saw the first faint signs of hope when Rauf Denktash, a Turkish Cypriot leader, decided after more than 2 years of stonewalling, to agree to participate in U.N.-sponsored proximity talks with President Clerides, the Greek Cypriot leader. A few days ago, the third round of those talks resumed in Geneva. Although they have recessed until later this month, the good news is that they are going to continue, and further rounds for the fall of this year are also scheduled. But mere talks alone do not achieve any resolution of this issue. We need to see substantive discussions with real progress being made.”