Readout of the Vice President’s Call with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades

Vice President Joe Biden spoke today with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades to discuss the strategic partnership between the United States and Cyprus as well as regional developments. The Vice President expressed his concerns over renewed tensions in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and reiterated that the United States respects the Republic of Cyprus' sovereignty and right to develop resources in its exclusive economic zone, in keeping with customary international law. He also expressed his hope that tensions will be de-escalated through ongoing diplomatic efforts and pledged to encourage all states in the region to pursue a mutually beneficial approach to developing energy resources. The two leaders agreed on the need to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality and expressed their support for the good offices of UN Special Advisor Espen Barth Eide.