Cyprus Welcomes US Military Cooperation
On Thursday, Cyprus celebrated a significant decision by US President Joe Biden, granting the strategically located Mediterranean nation access to military equipment. This pivotal move comes as Cyprus, traditionally aligned with Russia, is shifting towards a stronger pro-American stance under President Nikos Christodoulides, who took office in 2023.
In a memorandum released by the White House, President Biden emphasized that the provision of defense articles and services to Cyprus would not only bolster the security of the United States but also promote global peace. This marks a notable shift in US-Cyprus relations, highlighting the increasing importance of Cyprus in regional security.
Expanded Defense Capabilities
Biden’s decision allows Cyprus to access defense equipment and services through various programs, including Foreign Military Sales and the Excess Defense Articles initiative, as stated on the US embassy’s website in Nicosia. This eligibility represents a critical expansion of defense capabilities for Cyprus.
A statement from the Cyprus Presidency hailed this development as a historic milestone in bilateral relations with the United States, promising tangible benefits in diplomatic and defense arenas. The Presidency further noted that this recognition from Washington underscores Cyprus’s role as a key pillar of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Strengthening Ties Through Defense Cooperation
On social media, US Ambassador Julie Davis Fisher remarked that President Biden’s decision regarding the Republic of Cyprus’s eligibility for government-to-government defense sales is a crucial step in deepening the relationship. This move enhances security cooperation and fosters stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In 2022, the United States lifted a long-standing arms embargo on Cyprus, contingent upon the island’s ongoing blockade of Russian warships. This embargo, initially imposed in 1987, aimed to facilitate the reunification of the island, which has been divided since Turkey’s invasion in 1974.
A Valuable Partner in Regional Crises
Cypriot government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis highlighted that this new defense collaboration stems from Cyprus’s demonstrated value as a partner during recent crises in the Middle East. He noted the successful joint efforts between the two nations, including initiatives to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza by sea and assist in the evacuation of US nationals from the region.
These actions reflect Cyprus’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation, further solidifying its partnership with the United States in addressing challenges in the Middle East.
Historical Context of Division and Cooperation
Cyprus has been a divided island since 1974, when Turkey invaded the northern region in response to a Greek-backed coup. Currently, over 30,000 Turkish troops remain stationed on the island, contributing to ongoing tensions.
Last year, President Christodoulides made history as the first Cypriot president to visit the White House since 1996. This visit led to the initiation of a Strategic Dialogue aimed at enhancing security cooperation and addressing various areas of mutual interest.
