Ohio House Passes Resolution to Affirm the Sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus

COLUMBUS – House Resolution 13, legislation to affirm the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus, passed out of the Ohio House of Representatives with a vote of 91-2, announced bill sponsors, State Representatives Steve Demetriou (R-Bainbridge Twp.) and Nick Santucci (R-Niles).

The legislation also commemorates the 50th anniversary of Turkey's invasion and occupation of the northern region of Cyprus, which took place on July 20, 1974. As a result of the invasion, more than 160,000 Greek Cypriots were displaced. Many are still unable to return due to the continued Turkish occupation of the northern part of the island.

“Like many Greek Cypriots, my grandfather, Savvas, immigrated to the United States to find his own version of the American Dream while many others from our community weren’t as fortunate,” said Demetriou. “The passage of this resolution is a statement from the Ohio House that we recognize and honor the Republic of Cyprus’s sovereignty over the entirety of the island.”

“Trumbull County, which I proudly represent, is home to a vibrant community of Greek Americans who have made lasting contributions to our region,” said Santucci. “In joint sponsoring House Resolution 13, I stand with my constituents in honoring the resilience of the people of Cyprus, who have faced decades of division and displacement from their homeland.”