Cyprus President Meets Biden: Talks on Gaza & Reunification

President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus paid a visit to the White House to meet with President Joe Biden. Their discussions covered a range of important topics. They talked about supporting Ukraine against Russia's actions, sending aid to Gaza, and improving energy security. President Biden recalled visiting Cyprus 10 years ago and expressed his optimism about the possibility of reunifying the island into a bizonal, bicommunal federation. He also mentioned that the U. S. is ready to help with this goal. President Christodoulides thanked Biden for the strong partnership between their countries. He pointed out that Cyprus is a reliable ally in a region with significant geopolitical importance. The leaders spent a lot of time discussing the situation in Gaza, which is close to Cyprus and is affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Additionally, Christodoulides asked for renewed negotiations to achieve political equality in Cyprus. He has been under Turkish occupation for the past 50 years and hopes for a solution that aligns with the United Nations Security Council's resolutions. This solution should be based on shared values like democracy and human rights.