Greece and the United States extended congratulations to the Republic of Cyprus on the 65th anniversary of its independence, reiterating their support for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation.
In a message posted on social media, the Greek ministry of foreign affairs conveyed its “warmest congratulations and wishes” to Cyprus, underlining Athens’ steadfast commitment to a comprehensive and mutually acceptable solution in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
“Greece, in full harmony with the Republic, remains committed to a solution based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation,” the statement noted.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also issued a written statement marking the occasion, describing Cyprus as a “valued partner”. He emphasised Washington’s support for “a Cypriot-led, UN-facilitated comprehensive settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots.”
Rubio highlighted the growing bilateral cooperation between Nicosia and Washington, noting that it “increases commercial trade, combats illicit financial flows and strengthens regional security, allowing citizens of both our nations to prosper.”
He also expressed gratitude for Cyprus’s role in safeguarding US citizens in crisis zones, calling it “one of our highest priorities.”
European Council President Antonio Costa likewise sent his greetings to the Cypriot people.
In a post on X, he wrote: “Warm greetings to the people of Cyprus on Independence Day, as you celebrate freedom and peace. Happy Independence Day Cyprus!”
His post further highlighted that in exactly three months Cyprus will assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU for the second time, “presiding over meetings at all levels for six months to ensure the continuity of the Council’s work.”
Chinese President Xi Jinping likewise sent a message of congratulations, highlighting Cyprus’ national development, improvements in living standards, scientific and technological innovation and green development under Christodoulides’ leadership.
President Xi noted that next year will mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Cyprus and the fifth anniversary of their strategic partnership.
He expressed his readiness to work with the Cypriot president to “further advance our traditional friendship, maintain mutual respect and trust and continuously enrich the China–Cyprus strategic cooperation to benefit both peoples.”
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, meanwhile, noted the long-standing friendship between the two countries, built on mutual respect, understanding and ongoing coordination on issues of common interest. “It is our belief that through our efforts we can expand and strengthen bilateral cooperation in various fields,” he said.
Cyprus became an independent country on August 16, 1960, but independence day commemorations were moved to October 1 in the early 1960s to avoid the hot summer holiday season.
October 1 became a national holiday in Cyprus in 1979.
Click here to change your cookie preferences