Cyprus Applauded
The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (Order of AHEPA) commends the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues for its initiative to urge President Joe Biden to formally welcome President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides to the White House for a formal state visit, announced Supreme President Savas C. Tsivicos.
The Hellenic Caucus’ bipartisan-backed letter presents a series of actions to demonstrate America’s appreciation of Cyprus as 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s illegal invasion. It is signed by Caucus Co-Chairs U.S. Reps. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL) and Chris Pappas (D-NH), Vice-Chairs U.S. Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) and Dina Titus (D-NV), and longstanding Caucus Member U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD).
“We sincerely thank the leadership of the Hellenic Caucus for sending its letter to President Biden and for proposing very meaningful and tangible actions that are attainable that will further strengthen U.S.-Cyprus relations,” Supreme President Tsivicos, who recently concluded a visit to Cyprus, said.
“As a community, we know Cyprus is a vital contributor to U.S. interests and security in a region that is becoming increasingly volatile by the day. It is time for the world to know Cyprus’ value as a U.S. strategic partner, overcoming adversity to become one. We have appreciated President Biden’s support for Cyprus throughout his lengthy time in public service that included a landmark visit to Cyprus as Vice President. As the leader of the Free World, he has an opportunity to build on his legacy of support for Cyprus by elevating the injustice of the island’s division in this unthinkable fiftieth year of occupation while also further enhancing relations.
“As the organization that led the policy fight for Greece’s inclusion into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, we were also most pleased the Hellenic Caucus recognized the importance of the Administration’s steps to add Cyprus to the program with its inclusion in the letter. If this policy is enacted, the benefits to people-to-people ties between the two countries, as we have seen with Greece, are boundless.”