UNION CITY, NJ – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on October 1 issued the following statement in observance of Cyprus’ Independence Day:

“I join the Cypriot community in New Jersey and around the world in celebrating the 61st anniversary of independence of the Republic of Cyprus.

 “On this day, let us reaffirm our condemnation of the Turkish military’s illegal occupation of Cypriot territory starting almost 50 years ago, and categorically reject any continued attempt to redraw borders in Europe by creating a separate state in northern Cyprus. As a stalwart supporter of the deep American bonds with Cyprus, we must continue to support a peace process that ultimately allows the people of Cyprus to finally celebrate Independence Day in a reunified country, as a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation.

“The U.S.-Cypriot relationship has grown even stronger over the years, and I am very proud of what we have accomplished together. We have solidified a key partnership of democracies in the Eastern Mediterranean, increased our cooperation in energy and defense, and bolstered joint efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. I am deeply grateful for the many contributions of the Cypriot community here in the United States in helping deepen the bond between our nations.

”I wish the people of the Republic of Cyprus a joyous Independence Day as they mark this important anniversary.”