US President Joe Biden signed a decision that opens the door for Cyprus to participate in three key US defense programs, the Greek news agency ANA-MPA reported, quoted by BTA.
It is estimated that Cyprus' inclusion in the programs will help modernize its armed forces, strengthen interoperability with NATO and strengthen strategic ties between Washington and Nicosia in the field of security.
Specifically, the decision signed by Biden gives the green light for Cyprus to participate in the following programs for the first time:
- The US International Military Sales (FMS) Program
- The Excess Defense Equipment (EDA) Program
- Title 10 Security Assistance Programs
Sources in Washington noted that President Biden's decision is a recognition of Cyprus's key regional security role.
Cyprus has not been formally able to participate in these programs until now due to the fact that the US has not achieved a permanent lifting of the embargo on arms sales to the country. However, according to State Department lawyers, Biden has the authority to include the country in these programs by presidential decree.
In September 2022, the US lifted the arms embargo against the Republic of Cyprus, imposed in 1987, in order to avoid an arms race that would complicate negotiations between the two Cypriot communities. However, the lifting of the embargo is subject to new approval every year.