Rubio Reaffirms US Support for Federal Solution in Cyprus

In the message issued Thursday, Rubio congratulated the people of the Republic of Cyprus on 66 years of independence, highlighting the growing cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus in defense, energy, economic and educational fields.

EMPHASIS ON DEFENSE AND ENERGY COOPERATION

Rubio said relations between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus contribute to regional security, stressing the importance of cooperation in defense and energy as well as commercial and economic ties that benefit both countries.

He said Washington viewed the Republic of Cyprus as a partner with which it wanted to work more closely in the coming years.

FULBRIGHT PROGRAM EXPANDED

Rubio also highlighted developments in education, pointing to an agreement signed this year to expand the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program.

He said the program would strengthen educational exchanges and support for English-language teaching, adding that cooperation in education and language learning could create new opportunities in the business sector.

FEDERATION EMPHASIZED ON CYPRUS ISSUE

Rubio also reiterated the US position on the Cyprus issue.

He said the United States continued to support a Cyprus settlement led by the United Nations and driven by the Cypriots themselves, adding that Washington backed the reunification of the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation in line with UN Security Council resolutions.

While Rubio’s message did not announce any new diplomatic initiative, it outlined Washington’s approach to further developing relations with the Republic of Cyprus in defense, energy, economic cooperation and education.

The message also reaffirmed US support for the reunification of Cyprus.