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Cypriots are closely watching President Nicos Christodoulides' recent White House meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden, seeing it as a pivotal moment that could bolster efforts toward a fair solution to the Cyprus problem. The landmark visit, the first for a Cypriot president in 28 years, drew praise and scrutiny, particularly for Biden’s clear support for Cyprus’s role in regional stability and his endorsement of a solution that maintains Cyprus’s sovereignty.
Commenting on the historic visit, journalist and political scientist Kyriakos Iakovidis described the meeting as “a vital step not only in terms of its significance but also for the strong support it demonstrated for Cyprus.” According to Iakovidis, Biden’s emphasis on the Cyprus problem sent “a clear message to Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot side that the U.S. values a solution that respects Cyprus’s independence and sovereignty.”
“The President may have gotten more than he expected,” Iakovidis said, adding that Biden’s statements underscore the U.S. recognition of Cyprus as a strategic partner in the Eastern Mediterranean. Beyond diplomatic assurances, Iakovidis pointed out that the U.S. is moving to solidify defense ties, with Cypriot National Guard personnel set to receive training in the U.S. — a first for Cyprus as a non-NATO country. “For Cypriots hoping for a solution, this is significant. It reflects a commitment to long-term support, not just words,” Iakovidis said.
The meeting’s impact is also reverberating in Greece, where Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis commended Biden’s stance, calling the visit “a symbol of strong ties and shared vision.” Mitsotakis noted that Cyprus’s role as a bridge between Europe and the Middle East is vital. “This meeting confirms the strategic dimension of our partnership with the U.S. — not only for Greece but for Cyprus as well,” Mitsotakis said, emphasizing the lasting importance of this relationship.
In Cyprus, reactions were mixed. The Democratic Rally (DISY) party praised the outcome as a reaffirmation of Cyprus’s place as a “pillar of security in the Middle East.” DISY leader Anita Demetriou remarked, “This meeting strengthens our strategic position and shows the fruit of Cyprus’ consistent, constructive approach to international relations.” She said that under Christodoulides’ leadership, Cyprus is “showing the world that it is ready to play its part in fostering peace and security in the region.”
However, the left-leaning AKEL party offered a cautious perspective, urging the government to remain measured in its approach. “Any real solution for Cyprus must come from careful diplomacy, not through illusions or unbalanced foreign policy,” AKEL’s statement read. They reminded that Cyprus’s international relations should focus on “the promotion of peace and stability” rather than escalating regional tensions.
Across the border, the visit prompted sharp criticism from Turkish opposition figures who called it a “failure” for Turkish diplomacy. Namik Tan, of Turkey’s Republican People’s Party, noted that Cyprus could soon receive an “Important Non-NATO Ally” designation from the U.S., a status already granted to Israel and Egypt. “This would be an embarrassment for Turkey,” he said, “and highlights the lost influence Turkey once held in the region.”
For ordinary Cypriots, the visit comes with cautious hope. The meeting’s focus on Cyprus’s sovereignty and regional role resonated strongly, especially for those anxious for a lasting resolution to the island’s division. “It’s been too long — we’ve waited decades for progress,” said Eleni Kostas, a resident of Nicosia. “To hear the U.S. President supporting our right to a fair and lasting solution is a powerful message for us.”
Christodoulides himself emphasized the urgency of the moment, calling the meeting a recognition of Cyprus’s “constructive approach” in the region. “This visit shows that our strategy is bringing results,” he said. “We are on the right side of history, and we are working toward a solution that will ensure peace and stability for all Cypriots.”
In the wake of the White House visit, Cypriots are left hopeful yet mindful that meaningful progress requires more than diplomacy. For now, they hold onto Biden’s words, hoping this latest support will translate into the tangible peace that has eluded them for so long.
