US senator Robert Menendez said the time is right for southern Cyprus to strengthen its bonds with Washington in light of new natural gas discoveries in waters off the east Mediterranean island nation and its partnerships with neighboring countries to bolster regional security.
“FIND A WHOLE NEW DAY”
Menendez also added after talks with Southern Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades that Cyprus can “find a whole new day” in its relationship with the US and the West.
US governments attempts towards lifting the arms embargo were greeted with cheers by Southern Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades. He stated that he was welcomed senator’s statements.
Cypriot government spokesman Prodromos Prodromou also said ties are enhancing, referring to proposed legislation Menendez introduced with Sen. Marco Rubio R-Fl. aimed at lifting a 32-year-old arms embargo on southern Cyprus.
Prodromou said Cyprus works with countries including Israel and Egypt, serving US interests as ExxonMobil is engaged in a hydrocarbons search of the island.