On Friday, January 17, Cypriot government spokesman Konstantinos Letimbiotis said that the government is not concerned about a possible change in US policy towards Cyprus in light of the upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump as president.
The announcement comes amid strong Turkish objections to the recently signed arms deal between the US and Cyprus.
Letimbiotis stressed that Cyprus maintains good relations with all major global players, including Russia and China. He also noted that President Nicos Christodoulides had already reached out to Trump by phone before he took office, an unusual step for previous governments.
“Defense and security decisions are made based on a long-term perspective and a deep level of cooperation,” Letimbiotis said, adding that strategic dialogue with the United States remains key to the bilateral relationship.
He also noted that Cyprus is increasingly recognized as a pillar of security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, citing recent regional and international developments. Letimbiotis described Turkey's reaction to the arms deal as "expected and unfounded", stressing that Cyprus aims to strengthen its defense capabilities given the occupation of 37% of its territory.
Turkey's Foreign Ministry had previously expressed dissatisfaction with the agreement, saying it would lead to increased armaments on the island and expecting the Trump administration to "correct Biden's mistake."
In response to concerns of local parties about a possible departure from the pro-Russian orientation, Letimbiotis assured that the Republic maintains good relations with all permanent members of the UN Security Council. He added that Cyprus's foreign policy is clearly determined by its membership in the European Union and contributes to strengthening the country's international authority.
Source: cyprus-mail.com
