Press Statement
Richard Boucher, Spokesman
Washington, DC
January 23, 2003
U.S. Support for an EU Donors Conference for Cyprus
The United States welcomes the announcement today that the European Commission is ready to organize an international donors conference to provide financial support in the context of a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus question. We fully support such an international effort under the leadership of the European Union. We agree with the Commissioner for Enlargement Guenter Verheugen that, at this decisive time, it is important for the international community to send a clear signal of solidarity with the people of Cyprus.
The United States is prepared to participate in such a conference and to contribute financially. We further stand ready to provide support and expertise to a "needs assessment" effort in Cyprus as the first step in preparing for a donors' conference and in support of the United Nations Secretary General's Good Offices Mission.
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