Cyprus is preparing to join NATO, Greek newspaper Kathimerini reports. President Nikos Christodoulides discussed the possibility of joining the alliance with US leader Joe Biden during a meeting in Washington at the end of October, the publication notes.
The politicians discussed the United States’ contributions to modernizing Cyprus’ defense capabilities to meet NATO standards. According to Kathimerini, the country’s authorities believe that the state has the potential and infrastructure to interest Washington. Cyprus also turned to the United States with a request to purchase military equipment. The country depends on training its National Guard officers at U.S. military academies.
White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan He stated that Nicosia has a well-thought-out long-term plan to join the North Atlantic Alliance. According to Sullivan, the plan is seen as a win-win in Washington.
Christodoulides also discussed the NATO membership project with the organization’s Secretary General. Marcos RutteKathimerini points out. An important point of the plan is progress in the territorial dispute between Cyprus and Türkiye.
Cyprus was a leading member of the Non-Aligned Movement, which was made up of countries not associated with large military blocs. In 2004, Nicosia left the association to join the European Union, RBC recalls.
