''Cyprus crucial to global security,'' says US Ambassador

The U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, stressed the significant role of Cyprus in regional and global security during her remarks at the Overseas Cypriots Conference in Nicosia. In a discussion during the conference, Ambassador Fisher stated that while resolving the Cyprus question remains a priority, the United States was also focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship with Cyprus in all areas. On his part, the Greek Ambassador emphasized strong ties with Cyprus.

"The Cyprus question is an incredibly important part of what we're working on. But we're also working to grow the bilateral relationship across the board," said Fisher. She noted that Cyprus plays a crucial role in addressing regional and global security issues, making it a vital partner for the United States.

Ambassador Fisher referred to the new strategic dialogue between Nicosia and Washington, aimed at tackling a wide range of challenges that are significant to both countries.

"This kind of dialogue indicates that we see a very important window of opportunity to engage between Nicosia and Washington across a broad range of challenges that are important to the people of both countries," she added.

Referring to the Cyprus issue, Fisher talked about the collaborative efforts of the United States at multiple levels, including the embassy in Cyprus, the State Department, and the National Security Council, all working with a newly appointed UN Secretary General's personal envoy.

“And that is where our focus is right now. It's in support of resuming those talks. A we're going to keep doing this, through every avenue, through every channel that we have”, she said.

Fisher also referred to the increased US naval presence in the Eastern Mediterranean and its impact on security and stability in the region.

"That is an incredible amount of naval activity," Fisher said, noting the enhanced engagement of senior US military officials with their Cypriot counterparts. As she said, this increased tempo of military cooperation has led to more comprehensive interactions with the National Guard, the Ministry of Defence, and the President's team. She added that the frequent joint exercises between Cyprus and the US, have yielded substantial benefits for the security of the region.

During the conference, Fisher also addressed questions regarding double standards in international conflicts, comparing Ukraine and Cyprus. She highlighted the unique historical and geopolitical contexts of each situation and emphasized the consistent engagement and pronouncements of the UN Security Council regarding Cyprus over the past 50 years.

Fisher also discussed ongoing efforts to include Cyprus in the US Visa Waiver Program, encouraging Cypriots to apply for visas to meet the program's requirements. She also noted the US government's efforts to extending the waiver of the arms embargo on Cyprus.

Fisher commended President Christodoulides and his administration commitment for meeting the two legislated requirements necessary for this waiver which are preventing Russian naval port visits and collaborating closely with the US on illicit finance and money laundering issues.

“These are areas where the government has not only met the requirements but has really taken our partnership in new levels”, she said.

Greek Ambassador emphasizes strong ties with Cyprus

Addressing concerns about complacency and the lack of awareness regarding the Cyprus issue among younger generations in Greece, Ambassador of Greece in Cyprus Ioannis Papameletiou acknowledged that older generations possess a deeper understanding of the issue due to their firsthand experiences of the war. However, he emphasized the profound connection between Greece and Cyprus, underscoring that the occupation of Cyprus remains a significant concern for Greeks.

In response to a question about Greece's support for the Turkish candidate for the OSCE Secretary General, the Greek Ambassador highlighted the decision as part of the improved bilateral relations between Greece and Turkey. He explained that this strategic move was taken within the context of a mutually beneficial relationship, as Greece also endorsed Mania Telalian, a distinguished former director of the Greek Foreign Ministry's legal department, for the role of Director of the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.

Replying in a question on the issue of water scarcity, he acknowledged the importance of addressing climate change and praised initiatives taken by Cypriot authorities, in engaging regional countries to tackle this critical issue. Papameletiou also stressed the need for both countries to continue working on climate-related challenges.