Washington: The meeting between Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and his US counterpart Marco Rubio in Washington, D.C., on Monday, confirmed the strong, multi-level strategic relationship between the two sides, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Tuesday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis emphasized that the strategic relationship between the two countries is at its highest level, with expanded cooperation across defense, security, energy, regional stability, and technocratic coordination. He noted the potential for further deepening this relationship through the Roadmap for Cooperation of the bilateral Strategic Dialogue.
During a press briefing, Letymbiotis highlighted that the meeting’s outcome signifies that Cyprus has entered a new phase of international presence and political importance, characterized by a strong voice and strategic orientation. Cyprus continues to act as a reliable European actor, contributing to transatlantic cooperation and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Letymbiotis recalled that this marks the second meeting between the two ministers at the State Department within 17 months, a fact that underscores the significance of the relationship. He also mentioned the historic visit of the President of the Republic to the White House, which adds further weight to the bilateral ties.
Furthermore, the meeting followed visits by the Turkish Foreign Minister and the Syrian President to Washington, as well as the 3 + 1 energy ministerial meeting in Athens. Kombos and Rubio discussed the region’s energy future, with Rubio demonstrating extensive knowledge of the geopolitical landscape and regional cooperation potential, particularly within existing trilateral formations and the expanded 3 + 1 format.
On the Cyprus issue, Letymbiotis stated that the US affirmed its firm stance on principles regarding a solution, maintaining a commitment to the bizonal bicommunal federation based on UN Security Council resolutions, where the US is a permanent member.
Letymbiotis also mentioned a shared analysis of Middle East developments, with Cyprus presenting its role as a stable regional actor ready to contribute to peace and humanitarian efforts, including elements of President Trump’s plan for Gaza. It was agreed to hold a separate political dialogue on the Middle East and enhance coordination on protecting Christian communities’ rights.
Letymbiotis noted that the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union serves as an additional tool to strengthen institutional dialogue with the US, enabling Cyprus to act as an effective mediator on unresolved issues.
Regarding Cyprus’ inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program, Letymbiotis stated that Cyprus has met all technical and political requirements. The decision, however, rests with the US government and applies to more than just Cyprus.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be achieved, with the last negotiations in July 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without conclusion.