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AHI Voices “Grave Concern” to Vice President Biden

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The American Hellenic Instititute (AHI) has sent Vice President Joe Biden a letter stating their serious concern, regarding Turkey's recent illegal acts in Cyprus' EEZ zone and the absences of a public denouncement of such acts by the current U.S. administration and the U.S. Department of State.

AHI President Nick Larigakis penned in the letter, "We strongly believe Turkey's provocative actions in the eastern Mediterranean, which we condemn, endanger the work Vice President Biden has invested toward a Cyprus solution."

The AHI chief added, "We have several concerns foremost of which is the silence of the Obama administration on this matter, which is deafening. The United States must denounce Turkey's actions to quell tensions in the eastern Mediterranean caused by Turkey."

In the past couple of weeks, Turkey has illegally entered Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zone via warships and declared that it would launch seismic surveys. The most recent occurrence was the October 21st arrival of a survey vessel, a warship, and two support ships in Block 3 of the EEZ.

The American Hellenic Institute is located in Washington, D.C. and was established in 1974. As stated on its website, AHI strives to: "Upholding the rule of law in matters of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in our nation's dealings with Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey. In 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied Cyprus, AHI advocated a profoundly simple response—enforce U.S. law. At the time, the Executive Branch refused to enforce federal laws that prohibited Turkey's aggressive use of U.S.-supplied arms and equipment".

The institute adds, "AHI persuaded Congress to take action. The resulting legislation—an unprecedented rule of law U.S. arms embargo against Turkey—proved that the democratic ideals of ancient Greece continue to thrive as long as ordinary citizens remain vigilant, informed, and active. Since then, AHI has become the leading forum for addressing important issues that affect the U.S.'s relationship with Greece, Cyprus, and Southeastern Europe. It is a well-respected lobby, think-tank, business network, and educational foundation that informs and influences leaders, policymakers and citizens alike. We invite you to join and help us fulfill our mission."