Cyprus News Agency: News in English (AM), 99-03-21

Cyprus News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Cyprus News Agency at <http://www.cyna.org.cy>

CONTENTS

[01] Clinton - Cyprus - Raptakis

[02] Clerides - Speech

1110:CYPPRESS:01

[01] Clinton - Cyprus - Raptakis

In a letter to Rhode Island Senator, Leonidas Raptakis, Clinton also said he is committed to finding a solution to the problems that have plagued Cyprus.

Clinton was replying to a letter from the US Senator informing him about the creation of the Hellenic - American Coalition of New England.

In his letter, the President said he shares Raptakis' "concern that there has not been more progress towards a peaceful resolution of the Cyprus 'conflict'", as he described the Turkish invasion and occupation of Cyprus' northern third.

"I want to assure you that I am just as committed to finding a solution to the problems that have plagued Cyprus for far too long as I am to advancing peace elsewhere in the world," the US President said.

He added that the US administration will "intensify its efforts to convince all parties that negotiations are the only way to resolve this 'communal conflict' and build a future of peace and prosperity for all Cypriots".

Raptakis said he is pleased by President Clinton's statement "of support" and said he will "work closely" with his colleagues in the coalition to encourage the Clinton administration and Congress to "address this long-standing problem".

The coalition is composed of Greek-American elected officials from states in the region who have come together to work with the various Congressional delegations to promote awareness and provide information on issues affecting Cyprus and Greece.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 percent of the island's territory.

CNA EC/RG/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

1235:CYPPRESS:02

[02] Clerides - Speech

The President acknowledged the difficulties ahead but expressed determination for the freedom of Cyprus.

In a speech to the meeting of the Pancyprian Association of Reservist Commandoes, the President said "we are pursuing, through peaceful means, a just, viable and functional solution to our national problem, within the framework of a compromise, but we will never surrender to Attila's demands".

He said "we continue the fight to rid Cyprus of the Turkish occupation troops and settlers, to restore human rights for all the people, to reunite our divided land within conditions of permanent peace and security and to become members of the European Union".

Clerides said "we acknowledge that the struggle is difficult but we are firmly determined to continue", with the support of Greece, overseas Greeks and foreign states.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 percent of the island's territory.

CNA EC/RG/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

Cyprus News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article