Cyprus - NATO Relations
Cyprus, an EU member since 2004, is not part of NATO. Its relationship with the alliance is influenced by historical events and regional dynamics. Cyprus's strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean offers significant advantages for NATO, including proximity to key maritime routes and conflict zones. Its potential role as a strategic maritime hub could enhance NATO's operational capabilities in the region. The idea of formally bringing Cyprus into the NATO fold has numerous proponents, including in the Atlantic Council, a think-tank widely considered reflectign thinking in the bloc. In 2019, its Executive Vice President Damon Wilson argued that accession could facilitate the eventual reunification of the island.
After gaining independence in 1960, Cyprus adopted a non-aligned stance, refraining from joining military alliances. From 1949 to 1960, Cyprus was a British crown colony, and during this period, it was indirectly associated with NATO through the United Kingdom's membership. The island is a former British colony, and remains a significant British naval base. It was left divided in 1974 after Türkiye intervened militarily to preempt possible annexation by Greece.
The island's division in 1974, following a Turkish invasion prompted by a Greek-inspired coup, further complicated its potential NATO membership. The ongoing presence of Turkish troops in Northern Cyprus and the unresolved Cyprus dispute have been significant obstacles. The separation into ethnic Greek and Turkish-controlled halves remains a source of tension between the two NATO members, which both joined the US-led military bloc in 1952.
By late 2024, Cyprus was positioning itself for a potential future membership in NATO, as revealed by President Nicos Christodoulides during his discussions with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House 30 October 2024. Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the division of the island of Cyprus, President Biden reiterated his support for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality for all Cypriots consistent with United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
Membership in NATO requires progress in resolving the Cyprus issue and improvements in Euro-Turkish relations, as Nicosia's current veto power blocks Ankara's access to European organizations critical to its industries. Cooperation from international players will be essential for these developments.
The long-term, multi-phase plan, which had been well-received by Washington, sought to align Cyprus more closely with NATO through practical and strategic steps while addressing political challenges. The plan, which was “eagerly accepted” by Washington, is detailed, well-thought-out, with long-term planning and consisting of many interdependent stages. Christodoulides also presented the plan to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on the sidelines of the European Political Community Summit in Bucharest.
Christodoulides set as a priority the formalisation of the relationship between Cyprus and NATO. The first phase of this strategy focuses on deepening Cyprus' relationship with NATO by joining preparatory organizations linked to the alliance. However, Discussions include the potential expansion of the “Andreas Papandreou” airbase in Paphos, with financial support from the U.S., to accommodate a permanent American military presence.
In the Oval Office meeting, Christodoulides outlined three key strategic goals for U.S. support. The first is securing a longer-term exemption from the U.S. arms embargo, moving from annual renewals to three- or five-year terms. President Biden has pledged to work with Congress on this, with legislative changes already in motion.
The second objective is expanding joint military training opportunities for Cypriot National Guard members at U.S. military academies. This program, recently formalized, is expected to grow with additional placements, reinforcing bilateral defense ties.
The third goal is the modernization of Cyprus' defense infrastructure to meet NATO standards. Cyprus has demonstrated its strategic importance through its military facilities, ports, and airports, which already support U.S. operations. Discussions include the potential expansion of the “Andreas Papandreou” airbase in Paphos, with financial support from the U.S., to accommodate a permanent American military presence.
High-level U.S. delegations, including senators with influential roles in Congress, have visited Cyprus to assess these possibilities. They have underscored Cyprus’ critical strategic value, particularly in the context of its partnerships with Israel and Greece, as part of a key regional alliance.
Despite the promise of closer ties, Cyprus acknowledges the significant obstacles to NATO membership. These include internal and external political opposition and practical challenges. However, initiating this dialogue marks a major shift in Cyprus’ foreign policy orientation and signals its commitment to becoming a permanent strategic ally of the U.S. and NATO in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The complex relationships between Greece, Turkey, and Cyprus add layers of diplomatic challenges. Any move by Cyprus towards NATO membership would require careful navigation of these relationships to avoid escalating tensions. Turkey, a NATO member, has historically opposed Cyprus's involvement in the alliance, including its participation in programs like the Partnership for Peace. Turkey's stance is influenced by the unresolved Cyprus dispute and its military presence in the northern part of the island.
Within Cyprus, political parties and public opinion are divided on NATO membership. Some factions advocate for maintaining neutrality, while others support deeper integration into Western defense structures. While there are ongoing discussions and some political support within Cyprus for joining NATO, significant obstacles remain. The island's complex political landscape, regional tensions, and historical context continue to influence its relationship with NATO. Any progress towards membership would require addressing these multifaceted challenges through diplomatic efforts and regional cooperation.
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
