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Cyprus moving closer to US visa exemption - High-level delegation visits Cyprus

A high-level delegation from the United States Department of Homeland Security, led by Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy, & Plans Rob Law, conducted “a productive visit” to the Republic of Cyprus on 13-14 July, discussing Cyprus’ progress in meeting the requirements of the Visa Waiver Program.

A statement from the US Embassy in Nicosia states that the delegation met with Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki, Deputy Minister of Migration Nicholas Ioannides, and Foreign Permanent Secretary Theodora Constantinidou to discuss the growing security cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus, with a focus on important advances in border security and combating illegal migration. 

"Through bilateral border security cooperation, the United States and the Republic of Cyprus strengthen the national security of both countries.  The security and integrity of our borders and immigration system remain the highest priority for President Trump and his Administration.  The Department of Homeland Security relies on strong relationships with security partners to prevent criminals, terrorists, and fraudsters from illegally crossing borders and traveling to the United States," the announcement said.

It concluded by saying that the "DHS continues to monitor these efforts as it considers the designation of the Republic of Cyprus into the Program, and looks forward to continued cooperation with the Republic of Cyprus toward that goal."