* Mr. WHITFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong opposition to H. Res. 1631, a one-sided resolution that seeks to advance political interests under the guise of the protection of religious sites on the island of Cyprus. This resolution carries with it the potential to significantly damage relations between Turkish and Greek Cypriots at a time when reconciliation talks are at a critical stage. In fact, the United Nations special envoy for Cyprus expressed hope that, an agreement on the divided island could be brokered by the end of the year.
* In 2009, Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders took a tremendous step toward reconciliation with the formation of the Cultural Heritage Technical Committee, an organization tasked with the protection, preservation, and restoration of the rich cultural heritage of Cyprus. This committee has made enormous progress in identifying sites, located in both northern and southern Cyprus, which are suitable for restoration and protection. This committee has been one of the most successful vehicles yet created for fostering open dialogue and honest conversation between Greek and Turkish Cypriots on an issue of great importance to both communities. It would be unfortunate if actions by the U.S. Congress were to somehow unintentionally disrupt the progress that has been made so far to protect and restore precious artifacts and heritage sites.
* While I commend my colleagues for their desire to protect the rich cultural heritage of Cyprus, the two parties in this conflict are already working to correct the wrongs of the past. This resolution puts their hard work in jeopardy, and I urge Congress to play a peacemaking role, rather than take sides in a dispute.