Cyprus Moves to Join NATO, Seeks Security Guarantees and Improved Political Positioning
Cypriot President outlines key conditions for U.S. cooperation in NATO accession
The government of Cyprus is actively pursuing NATO membership in a strategic move aimed at strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and improving its overall political situation.
According to a report by Kathimerini, joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a top priority for the Cypriot government under President Nikos Christodulidis. The discussions between President Christodulidis and U.S. President Joe Biden on this matter have been received positively, with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan calling it a “victory for the people of Cyprus.”
However, there are currently political obstacles that Cyprus must overcome in order to achieve its goal of NATO membership. The Cypriot president has outlined three key conditions that the United States must fulfill:
1. Lifting the arms embargo on Cyprus for at least 3-5 years, allowing the country to purchase defense equipment from the U.S.
2. Significantly upgrading the joint training of the Cypriot National Guard at U.S. military academies.
3. Providing decisive contributions from the U.S. to modernize Cyprus’ defense capabilities and military forces in line with NATO standards, as well as improving the country’s defense infrastructure and facilities.
The permanent presence of U.S. military forces in Cyprus is also a potential policy goal, although it is not a certain condition for the country’s NATO accession.
Cypriot officials are hopeful that by the end of this year, there will be concrete steps taken, such as the free provision of defense equipment to Cyprus and the procurement of materials through international sales programs.
The move to join NATO is a strategic decision for Cyprus, as the country aims to strengthen its defense, improve its political positioning, and provide security guarantees for its citizens. The successful navigation of the current political obstacles will be crucial for Cyprus in its quest to become the 33rd member of the North Atlantic Alliance.
