News On Turkey

Democratic Elections by Turkish Cypriots Hailed

U.S. continues efforts to find durable solution to longstanding division

21 February 2005

The democratic elections held by Turkish Cypriots on February 20 have been welcomed by the United States as a "reaffirmation of the Turkish Cypriot commitment to a comprehensive solution and reunification of the island with Greek Cypriots."

In a February 21 statement, the U.S. Department of State said that the Bush administration will continue to work with the United Nations to find a just, durable solution to the longstanding division of Cyprus.

In addition, the statement said, the United States remains committed to promoting measures that will ease the economic isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community.

Following is the text of the statement:

Statement by Richard Boucher, Spokesman

TURKISH CYPRIOT ELECTION RESULTS

U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman
February 21, 2005

In their vote on Sunday, February 20, Turkish Cypriots exercised their right to participate in free, fair and democratic elections.  We welcome the result as a reaffirmation of the Turkish Cypriot commitment to a comprehensive solution and reunification of the island with Greek Cypriots.

The United States will continue to work with the UN Secretary General to promote a just and durable solution to the long-standing division of the island, based on UNSYG Annan's settlement plan.

As part of our effort to pave the way for a settlement and reunification, the United States will also continue to promote measures that will ease the economic isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community and promote economic development in north Cyprus by expanding business contacts on and off the island.