U.S. delegation visits Cyprus to discuss Visa Waiver Program and security cooperation

A senior delegation from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, led by Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy, and Plans Rob Law, visited the Republic of Cyprus on July 13-14. The U.S. officials met with Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki, Deputy Minister of Migration Nicholas Ioannides, and Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Theodora Constantinidou. The primary objective of these meetings was to assess Cyprus's progress toward meeting the requirements for admission into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral security, border integrity, and combatting illegal migration. The U.S. side emphasized that collaborating with international partners is essential to preventing criminals and terrorists from entering the United States. Furthermore, both parties addressed the ongoing evaluation process regarding Cyprus's potential entry into the visa-free travel program. The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia reiterated that protecting borders and maintaining migration system integrity remains a key priority.