Sean Patrick Maloney: “I rise in support of H.R. 165 and thank my friends and colleagues, the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bereuter) and the…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 165 and thank my friends and colleagues, the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bereuter) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Sherman), for their work on this important resolution. However, I do have some reservations. As Democratic cochair of the Hellenic Caucus, along with my Republican colleague, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), we have been working with the U.N. and the State Department on the reunification of Cyprus, which has been divided since 1974. The peaceful, lasting and just settlement of Cyprus has been a priority of the United Nations and the caucus. The Republic of Cyprus will sign the EU treaty in Athens on April 16. We had all hoped a united Cyprus would enter the European Union. Unfortunately, the latest round of talks ended without an agreement. According to the report of the United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan, released on April 7, and I would like to put his testimony into the record, 'In the case of the failure of this latest effort, I believe that Mr. Denktash, the Turkish Cypriot leader, bears prime responsibility.' Despite my concerns and disappointment, I appreciate the comments of President Papadopoulos, who has stated that the Greek Cypriot side will 'continue the efforts for reaching a solution to the Cyprus question both before and after Cyprus joins the EU.' I am pleased that this resolution addresses these issues and appreciate the work the subcommittee has done.”