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Just after 5:40 pm Cyprus time today, President Nikos Christodoulides met with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House, marking a notable step in U.S.-Cyprus relations, which both leaders say are now at a "historic high." Biden welcomed Christodoulides to the Oval Office, emphasizing the longstanding collaboration between the two countries, which has grown to cover issues like defense, energy, humanitarian aid, and regional security.
Μια ιστορική μέρα για τις διμερείς σχέσεις US and CY με θερμή υποδοχή στον Λευκό Οίκο του ΠτΔ @Christodulides από τον Πρόεδρο των ΗΠΑ Τζο Μπάιντεν.
— Stella Michael (@stellami17) October 30, 2024
Ο Αμερικανος @POTUS κατά την υποδοχή δήλωσε πως:
Δεν υπάρχει όριο στο τι μπορούν να επιτύχουν τα έθνη μας όταν εργάζονται μαζί
… pic.twitter.com/p2TPnNvmau
“It’s good to see you,” Biden said to Christodoulides, recalling his last visit to Cyprus as Vice President a decade ago. He highlighted Cyprus's pivotal role in supporting recent U.S.-led humanitarian efforts in Gaza and noted Cyprus’s position in critical geopolitical issues, especially given the current conflict in Ukraine. "There is no limit to what our nations could achieve when we work together," Biden remarked.
Reflecting on the Cyprus issue, Biden expressed optimism for a peaceful reunification based on a "bizonal, bicommunal federation." He pointed out that this year marks the 50th anniversary of Cyprus's division, adding that he remembers its early days as a U.S. Senator with Greek-American Senator Paul Sarbanes. "It was a sad occasion," Biden noted. "But I remain optimistic that a reunited Cyprus is possible, and the United States stands ready to support that goal."
Christodoulides thanked Biden for the invitation, describing the meeting as “a great honor.” He spoke about the deepening partnership between the two countries, citing the recent Strategic Dialogue in Cyprus as an example of the shared commitment to growing cooperation. Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus’s role in addressing regional crises, noting that it has assisted with evacuations and humanitarian aid in Gaza, reflecting its role as a “predictable and reliable partner” for the U.S. in a sensitive region.
Addressing the longstanding Cyprus problem, Christodoulides underscored the toll of the island’s division under Turkish occupation and emphasized Cyprus’s commitment to resuming negotiations. "I count on your support, Mr. President," he said, expressing hope for a solution aligned with UN Security Council resolutions and rooted in "democracy and respect for human rights."
The leaders' meeting is seen as a positive signal toward enhanced U.S.-Cyprus cooperation amid a challenging global landscape.
After the meeting, the White House released an official statement highlighting the productive discussions:
''President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met today with President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus at the White House. Following the inaugural launch of the U.S.-Republic of Cyprus Strategic Dialogue earlier this month, the leaders had an in-depth discussion on a range of foreign policy issues of mutual interest including energy diversification, regional security, and support to Ukraine. President Biden expressed his gratitude for the Republic of Cyprus’s support for the maritime humanitarian corridor that delivered more than 8,000 metric tons of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the division of the island of Cyprus, President Biden reiterated his support for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality for all Cypriots consistent with United Nations Security Council Resolutions.''
