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The White House has announced a landmark decision that directly impacts Cyprus and its role in the Eastern Mediterranean. US President Joe Biden signed a presidential decree allowing the provision of defense supplies and services to the Republic of Cyprus. This move, according to the White House, will not only bolster the United States' security but also promote peace across the globe.
A Milestone Decision
Under the authority granted by the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act, President Biden directed the Secretary of State to notify Congress and make the decision official by publishing it in the US Government Gazette.
For Cypriots, it’s a reminder that the island’s geopolitical significance is being acknowledged at the highest levels, ensuring that Cyprus remains a key player on the world stage.
The White House's statement emphasized that the move aligns with US strategic interests. "By authorization of the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, I hereby determine that the provision of defense goods and services to the Republic of Cyprus will enhance the security of the United States and promote world peace," it read.
Stronger Ties and Regional Stability
The announcement has been met with praise from Cypriot leaders, who view it as a historic turning point in US-Cyprus relations. Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis described it as a "milestone" that underscores Cyprus's strategic importance on the geopolitical stage. "This decision not only strengthens our National Guard but also cements Cyprus’s position as a pillar of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean," Letymbiotis said.
The US Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the growing security cooperation between the two nations. "This is an important step in deepening our partnership, promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean," she noted in a social media post.
President Biden's determination of the ROC’s eligibility for government-to-government defense sales marks an important step in deepening the US/CY relationship, enhancing security cooperation & promoting stability in the East Med. https://t.co/vjjL3ZEplw
— Julie Davis (Fisher) (@USAmbCy) January 15, 2025
What This Means for Cyprus
For Cypriots, this decision brings both practical and symbolic benefits. The Republic of Cyprus’s defense capabilities will be enhanced, offering greater security in a region often marked by geopolitical tensions. Beyond that, it reinforces the island’s role as a key player in fostering peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, a region of strategic importance to both Europe and the United States.
This latest development also reflects the growing trust and alignment between Nicosia and Washington. As Cyprus continues to strengthen its partnerships with Western allies, including the US, it becomes increasingly clear that the island is being recognized as a reliable partner and a stabilizing force in the region.
A Broader Impact
From a global perspective, the decision sends a message about the US's commitment to maintaining stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. For Cypriots, it’s a reminder that the island’s geopolitical significance is being acknowledged at the highest levels, ensuring that Cyprus remains a key player on the world stage.
This development marks another step forward in solidifying Cyprus's relationships with major international powers, creating opportunities for further collaboration and growth.
