In a prominent White House meeting, U.S. President Joe Biden recently welcomed the Leader of the Greek side, Nikos Christodoulides, marking a high-level dialogue on strategic partnerships between the U.S. and the Greek Cypriot administration.

The conversation touched upon longstanding issues surrounding Cyprus, with Biden expressing continued optimism for a bizonal, bicommunal federation. The meeting, however, underscored the disproportionate influence of Greek Cypriot lobbying in Washington, drawing fresh calls for Turkish Cypriots to amplify their efforts on the U.S. stage through emerging networks like TCE.

Enhanced U.S.-Cyprus Relations: The Military and Visa Waiver Dimensions

In addition to Biden’s vocal support for a federated Cyprus, the U.S. revealed plans to deepen military support and extend a new visa waiver program to the Republic of Cyprus, enabling Greek Cypriots to travel to the U.S. without the need for a visa. This agreement, celebrated by Christodoulides, signifies the U.S.’s endorsement of the Greek side's stance within the context of growing Eastern Mediterranean tensions. The military aspect of this relationship has been bolstered with defense cooperation agreements, increasing U.S. military presence and collaboration with the Greek side on the island. This growing military relationship aligns Cyprus more closely with Western alliances and security efforts, creating strategic alliances that could shift the balance in the Mediterranean.

A Challenge for Turkish Cypriots: Lobbying and Building Strategic Partnerships

While the Greek side continues to leverage robust lobbying efforts in Washington, Turkish Cypriots face the challenge of securing equal footing in U.S. diplomatic circles. The Greek American lobby has long invested substantial resources in promoting its narrative within the U.S., influencing political discourse through strong connections with senators, congress members, and other policymakers. This lobbying has successfully advanced initiatives like the recent military collaborations and visa waiver, illustrating the impact of sustained diplomatic efforts. In response, Turkish Cypriots and their supporters recognize the need to strengthen their presence and influence in the U.S. government, aiming to articulate a balanced view that includes Turkish Cypriot perspectives on sovereignty and self-determination.

A Role for TCE and New Networks in the United States

The recent developments underscore the importance of proactive Turkish Cypriot engagement within the U.S. TCE, representing Turkish Cypriots abroad, is set to take a leading role in mobilizing diplomatic efforts and expanding its network to U.S. policymakers. With this new infrastructure, TCE and Turkish Cypriot advocates are poised to engage more directly with American officials, setting a long-term goal of fostering understanding and support for the Turkish Cypriot cause among U.S. senators and governors. This strategic move could counterbalance the longstanding Greek Cypriot lobbying network, offering a fresh and compelling narrative to U.S. decision-makers that emphasizes the right to Turkish Cypriot self-determination and the importance of a fair, two-state solution.

A Call for Balanced Diplomacy and Fair Representation

The introduction of the visa waiver for the Greek Cypriot population and enhanced U.S.-Cyprus military cooperation not only exemplifies a deepening of U.S.-Greek Cypriot ties but also highlights an area where Turkish Cypriots need to build diplomatic rapport. TCE’s commitment to this cause will be instrumental in creating a more balanced dialogue, reflecting the realities and aspirations of Turkish Cypriots on a global stage. President Ersin Tatar of the TRNC has emphasized that peace on the island will only be achievable through a fair and balanced solution, urging that Turkish Cypriots be recognized as equal partners in any future negotiations. This vision calls for an international effort that acknowledges both communities' rights, sovereignty, and security needs.

As TCE and its U.S. supporters set out to build these relationships, Turkish Cypriots hope to establish a broader understanding in Washington of the two-state solution as a viable, peaceful resolution to the Cyprus issue. This ongoing engagement represents a significant step toward international recognition of the TRNC, a future where Turkish Cypriots can enjoy the same privileges and freedoms currently afforded to Greek Cypriots in the U.S.-Cyprus alliance.

References  
 GreekReporter. Christodoulides to Biden: Cyprus under Occupation for 50 Years
 Cyprus Mail. Biden: I Remain Optimistic about the Possibility of Cyprus Solution 
 in-cyprus. Cypriot President Invited to White House for Strategic Talks