Cyprus and U.S. strengthen crime-fighting cooperation

The House Plenary of Cyprus approved an important agreement on Thursday aimed at boosting cooperation between Cyprus and the United States in the fight against serious crime. This agreement, which was signed in Nicosia back in 2015, was recently ratified after the Cabinet approved its details last July.

This agreement is significant because it is a requirement for Cyprus to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which would allow Cypriots to travel to the U.S. without needing a visa. The deal allows both countries to share information about individuals in their criminal databases. Specifically, it enables them to check whether someone has a history of serious crimes that could pose a threat to public safety when applying for a visa or entering either country.

To facilitate this information exchange, both the U.S. and Cyprus will make their fingerprint identification systems available to each other. This means that law enforcement agencies can access relevant data to identify potential risks associated with individuals trying to enter their countries.

The agreement underscores a mutual commitment to enhance security and cooperation in preventing crime, helping both nations better protect their citizens.