I join my colleagues today In this special order to recognize this solemn anniversary. as well as the need for an end to the turmoil and conflict under which Cypriots currently live. Thirtyone years ago. the island of Cyprus gained its Independence from Great Britain. however. for 17 years. the northern part of the island has been under the grip of foreign occupation. When Turkish troops Invaded Cyprus. 200.000 Greek Cypriots were driven from their homes. deprived of their possessions. and reduced to refugee status In their own land. Since the Invasion. the island has been marked with violence and bloodshed. Over the years. there has been an influx of approximately 65.000 settlers from mainland Turkey.