Rep. Bilirakis Resolution Calls for End to Turkish Occupation of Cyprus

"As a valued friend and ally of the United States, it is my hope that this resolution will allow Cyprus to once again enjoy a peaceful and sovereign existence," said Bilirakis, Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus and member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "We seek a reunified and prosperous Cyprus where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots can live together in peace, security and stability. America, a friend of the Cypriot people, owes it to them to do everything in their power to support peace and an end to this illegal occupation."

July marks the 38th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Since the 1974 invasion, international governing bodies and human rights groups have condemned Turkey's flagrant abuse of international law and violation of Cyprus's national sovereignty.

The bipartisan resolution was also introduced by Rep. Eliot Engel of New York.