Blinken ‘grateful’ for Cyprus’ assistance in crises

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said he was “grateful” for Cyprus’ assistance in support of civilians during times of crisis in the region in his message commemorating the country’s independence day.

“We are deeply grateful for Cyprus’ contributions and continued efforts to strengthen the rule of law, its leadership on regional security issues, and its continued assistance in support of civilians in crisis,” he said.

He added that Cyprus and the US “are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy and freedom,” and said, “the bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to continuing to deepen our bilateral relationship.”

On the matter of the Cyprus problem, he said the US remains “fully committed to a Cypriot-led, United Nations-facilitated comprehensive settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots.”

The US, he said, “remains your steadfast partner and believes in the resilience of the Cypriot people.”

“I extend my warmest regards and best wishes to the Cypriot people, and I look forward to another year of collaboration between our nations,” he said.