Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I wish to speak about the situation in Cyprus. Forty years ago this week, military forces from Turkey invaded Cyprus, eventually taking control of 38 percent of the island. Cyprus has remained divided ever since. As we observe this solemn occasion, I call on all parties to find a peaceful negotiated settlement in Cyprus. Cyprus is an important partner to the United States, and I appreciate the recent attention given to Cyprus reunification by the Obama administration. In May 2014, Vice President Biden visited the island and met with President Anastasiades and Dr. Eroglu. Vice President Biden personally conveyed our country's support for reunification of Cyprus as a bizonal, bicommunal federation. However, as Vice President Biden said, ``. . . ultimately, the solution cannot come from the outside. It cannot come from the United States or anywhere else; it has to come from the leaders of the two communities, and from the compelling voices of the civil society leaders . . .'' In February 2014, Cypriot leaders issued a joint statement, prompting the formal resumption of unification talks. I was encouraged by this step but have followed this issue long enough to know that negotiators face a difficult, though not insurmountable, task. I wish them well in their negotiations and hope we can soon see progress towards a peaceful reunification in Cyprus. ____________________”