Cyprus and U.S. launch first strategic dialogue in Nicosia

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nicosia will host the first-ever Strategic Dialogue between Cyprus and the United States this Wednesday. This dialogue, which will focus on cooperation across various sectors, marks a significant step in strengthening relations between the two nations.

The talks will cover four main topics: international and regional cooperation, security and law enforcement, education and cultural ties, and energy, trade, and technology. These discussions aim to expand collaboration in key areas of mutual interest.

Representing Cyprus at the opening will be Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, who will deliver remarks at the start of the dialogue. The U.S. delegation will be led by Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, James O'Brien. Permanent Secretary Andreas Kakouris will head the Cypriot delegation throughout the day’s consultations.

In addition to the dialogue, Cyprus is set to join the “Artemis Accords,” a U.S.-led initiative on the peaceful exploration and use of space. Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Nikodemos Damianos, will sign the agreement on behalf of Cyprus. The signing will take place virtually, with NASA officials attending online from the U.S.

The launch of the Strategic Dialogue follows an agreement made last June during a meeting in Washington between Foreign Minister Kombos and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. This new framework establishes annual high-level meetings aimed at deepening ties based on shared values and interests.

A joint statement is expected to be released following the conclusion of the dialogue.

[With information from CNA]