US diplomat says defence sales decision an important step in deepening relations with Cyprus
US President Joe Biden’s determination of the Republic of Cyprus’ eligibility for government to government defense sales marks an important step in deepening the bilateral relationship, said US ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher.
In a post on “X”, the US diplomat said “the President’s determination of the Republic of Cyprus’s eligibility for government-to-government defense sales marks an important step in deepening the bilateral relationship, enhancing security cooperation, and promoting regional stability.”
Cyprus, she added, according to an Embassy announcement “continues to be a key partner for promoting security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, including facilitating humanitarian assistance to Gaza and assisting the departure of American citizens from conflict zones.”
This decision, said Fisher, “is fully consistent with our longstanding policy in support of a comprehensive settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, to the benefit of all Cypriots and the wider region.”
On Wednesday, President Biden issued a Presidential Determination of eligibility for the Republic of Cyprus to receive defense equipment, supplies, and services through the Foreign Military Sales, Excess Defense Articles divestment program, and Title 10 security assistance grant programs. Access to these programs further enhances the growing bilateral security cooperation between the United States of America and the Republic of Cyprus, enabling greater interoperability to respond to regional humanitarian crises, counter malign influence, and combat terrorism and transnational organized crime.
