Official announcements from the Cypriot government or the U.S. Department of Defense

Biden Directive Enables Cyprus to Join FMS, EDA, Title 10 Programs, Bolstering Regional Stability

Jan 16, 2025, 12:24 AM

President Joe Biden has issued a directive that allows Cyprus to participate in three key U.S. defense programs: the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program, and Title 10 security assistance grant programs. This decision enables Cyprus to purchase American arms directly from the U.S. government and access surplus military equipment, marking a significant enhancement in U.S.-Cyprus defense cooperation. The move is seen as a recognition of Cyprus's role as a stabilizing force in the Eastern Mediterranean, facilitating its potential contribution to regional peace and humanitarian efforts. Cyprus has been actively involved in humanitarian initiatives, including the establishment of a maritime corridor for aid to Gaza and the evacuation of foreign nationals from conflict zones in the Middle East. Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides has underscored Cyprus's pro-Western stance and commitment to expanding defense ties with the U.S., including inviting FBI officials to train local law enforcement on stopping financial crimes. Cyprus's current military stock includes Soviet-era T80 main battle tanks and TOR-M1 anti-aircraft missile batteries. The Cypriot government views this development as a historic milestone that strengthens its strategic partnership with the United States, reflecting a shift in Cyprus's foreign policy from non-alignment to a more pro-Western stance.