US, Greek Cypriot administration sign new defense cooperation roadmap

Celeste Wallander, the U.S. assistant secretary of defense for international Security Affairs, and Vasilis Palmas, minister of defense of the Greek Cypriot Administration, signed an agreement allegedly aimed at strengthening defense cooperation between the United States and the Greek Cypriot administration on Tuesday.

The signing of the U.S.-ROC Roadmap for Bilateral Defense Cooperation took place in Nicosia, marking a significant development in regional security efforts.

The new roadmap outlines a framework for enhancing bilateral collaboration on defense and security issues over the next five years, focusing on addressing current and emerging security challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean.

In a joint statement, both parties underscored the importance of stability and security in Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean, acknowledging the evolving nature of threats in the region.

The roadmap, which follows the second U.S.-Greek Cypriot Administration Defense and Security Cooperation Dialogue held in Washington in June, reportedly aims to strengthen the nation’s ability to respond to humanitarian crises, counter malign influence, and improve military interoperability.

It also addresses key security concerns such as the national security effects of climate change, reflecting a comprehensive approach to regional stability.

Assistant Secretary Wallander’s visit to the Greek Cypriot Administration extended through Sept. 10, during which she held discussions with ROC President Nikos Christodoulides and visited the Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Larnaca.

Wallander expressed appreciation for the Greek Cypriot administration’s leadership in regional humanitarian aid efforts and its ongoing support for citizens in crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean.