Assurance that she will attempt to expedite the Cyprus resolution process was expressed by nominee for Cyprus ambassador Julie Fisher[/B] during the hearing for the approval of her nomination by the Senate International Relations Committee.
After Fisher emphasizing the longstanding U.S. position that the status quo on the island is unacceptable, Fisher added that "I do not underestimate how difficult the challenges in Cyprus are. But I think it's a place where there are tremendous opportunities if we can focus and if we can focus our energies on those who are paying the highest price and those who stand to benefit the most from a comprehensive agreement. What I hope to contribute to this process is a sense of urgency. A key element of these talks is that they are being conducted under Cypriot leadership and facilitated by the United Nations, and so I will primarily seek that direction. I think the timing is absolutely critical."
As reported by ERT, Commission Chairman Robert Menendez commenting said that "I think the sense of urgency is important because the conflict has gone on too long already.[/B] If Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots were allowed to decide between themselves, things would be different. But the problem is that Ankara is putting its hand on the scales and not allowing the Turkish Cypriots to find their own way."
Mr Menendez then asked Ms Fisher what her view is on the 3+1 trilateral cooperation scheme (Greece, Cyprus, Israel and the US) and how she intends to handle it given the fact, as she said, "that the US government has not done enough to support it."
Fisher expressed her support and pledged to do what is needed to further strengthen this cooperation mechanism given her belief, as she explained, that such schemes are always extremely important and beneficial. Ms Fisher also said that she intends to work towards strengthening the US-Cyprus security relationship in light of the new circumstances created by the recent lifting of the arms embargo.
Mr Menendez referred to the recent renewal of the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus, expressing his satisfaction "despite the fact that these are temporary solutions" and Ms Fisher said that "the peacekeeping force is playing an absolutely essential and stabilising role".
In his opening remarks, Mr. Menendez had expressed frustration with the State Department's standard tactic, which he reiterated "in cases like Cyprus and Armenia asks both parties to do something when it is clear that one is the aggressor."
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