In a landmark meeting in Washington, DC, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides met with U.S. President Joe Biden on October 30. The first such engagement between Cypriot and American leaders since President Glafkos Klerides' visit in 1996, the meeting underscores the strengthening ties between the two countries. Talks centered on pressing issues such as the Cyprus peace process, energy security, regional stability in the Middle East, and support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing Russian conflict.

President Biden, hosting President Christodoulides at the White House at 5:30 p.m. Cyprus time (11:30 a.m. local time), reaffirmed U.S. support for a bizonal, bicommunal federation in Cyprus—a solution ensuring political equality among all Cypriots. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre underscored that this federal model remains the U.S.'s stance on resolving the longstanding division on the island.

The visit follows the successful inauguration of the U.S.-Republic of Cyprus Strategic Dialogue on October 23, which laid groundwork for the leaders’ discussions. “The leaders will discuss a range of global issues, including energy security, cooperation, events in the Middle East, and continued robust support to Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression,” Jean-Pierre’s statement noted. The dialogue also reflected growing international interest in Cyprus as a stable actor within an increasingly volatile region.

Marking the 50th anniversary of Cyprus’s division in 1974—when Turkey invaded and occupied the northern third of the island—President Biden is expected to underscore U.S. backing for a peaceful federal resolution to the Cyprus issue. The island’s reunification efforts have seen numerous rounds of UN-led negotiations since the initial division, yet no lasting solution has been reached. The most recent talks, held in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, in 2017, ended inconclusively, further highlighting the complexities of the peace process.

Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasized the significance of this meeting, noting that it showcases the evolving diplomatic role of Cyprus on the global stage, especially in areas related to energy and geopolitical stability. As Cyprus continues to navigate its role within these critical areas, the meeting is seen as a pivotal moment in the island nation’s international relations.