U.S. Secretary of State marks Cyprus' 66th independence anniversary

On October 1, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement commemorating the 66th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus. Representing the United States, Rubio conveyed warm congratulations to the Cypriot people and emphasized that the bilateral partnership between the two nations continues to strengthen annually.

The Secretary of State highlighted significant progress in cooperation across defense, energy, economic, and trade sectors, noting that these collaborative efforts have contributed to improved regional security. Additionally, he underscored the expansion of educational ties, particularly through a Memorandum of Understanding signed over the past year to extend the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant program.

Furthermore, Rubio reiterated the United States' unwavering commitment to a settlement of the Cyprus issue based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation. This formal acknowledgement reflects the ongoing strategic alignment between Washington and Nicosia, with both sides signaling a desire to continue building upon the diplomatic and operational successes achieved over the previous year.