Political Quotes

“July 20, 1997, marks the 23d anniversary of the illegal invasion and occupation of the Republic of Cyprus by Turkey. The legacy of this invasion and subsequent division of Cyprus continues to this day, making Cyprus the only country in the world divided by a wall. Constructed by the invading Turks in an effort to divide the island, the Green Line, as it has become known, is a symbol of the ugly face of naked aggression. This aggression came on July 20, 1974, in the form of 6,000 Turkish troops and 40 tanks. Turkish forces successfully seized 40 percent of the island which represented 70 percent of the Nation's economic health; 200,000 Greek Cypriots were forced from their homes by the invading forces, and to this day, 1,619 people remain unaccounted for-- 5 of them American citizens. Turkey has since fortified its illegally obtained gains by placing 30,000 troops and 65,000 settlers in the land that rightfully belongs to the forcibly ousted Greek Cypriots. We simply cannot validate an unwarranted, unprovoked invasion of a peaceful, self-governing republic by allowing Turkish occupation to continue. The presence of the Turkish troops represents the continuing shackles of occupation and oppression and also demonstrates a gross violation of human rights and international law. I am encouraged by the undaunted spirit and courage of the Greek Cypriots in the face of this occupation.”