SAE Convention in New York also adopts resolution language of U.S. Senate on Cyprus

WASHINGTON, November 27 -- A U.S. Senate resolution on Cyprus with an emphasis on its accession to the European Union has become the text of SAE's own resolution on this issue unanimously approved by the delegates at the 5th North and South America Convention of the Council of Hellenes Abroad held Nov. 22-24 in New York.

The SAE resolution, whose language is almost identical to that of Resolution 122 passed by the U.S. Senate, recognizes the importance of the accession of Cyprus to the E.U. and that resolving the conflict between Hellene Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots should be based on the requirements placed by, and the opportunities created from,the accession process.

"I am very pleased that the convention body adopted and passed a resolution which also carries the weight of the United States Senate," said World SAE President Andrew A. Athens. Chris Tomaras, Vice President of SAE and Coordinator of the North and South America region stated, "it is an important resolution that establishes the direction Hellenes are following in their effort to support a solution in Cyprus."

The resolution calls for the formation of a bizonal, bicommunal federation of Cyprus. It suggests that the continued cooperation in negotiations between Hellene and Turkish Cypriot leaders and the accession of Cyprus to the European Union will facilitate a settlement of the conflict in Cyprus. Furthermore, according to the resolution, the support of international organizations, the United Nations, and the United States Government, is imperative in the prompt and successful settlement of the conflict that has been plaguing the region since 1974 when Turkey invaded the island nation.

The convention drew more than 450 delegates and other participants, including speakers from Greece, and coincided with three weeks of Hellenic cultural events.