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Biden’s Decision On Cyprus Hailed As A Landmark Moment

US President Joe Biden’s latest move has been described by the Cyprus government as a “historic development,” opening the door for the Republic of Cyprus to access US defence equipment, supplies, and services through key programmes such as Foreign Military Sales, the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) initiative, and other military assistance channels, according to a statement from the Presidency.

This decision is a direct result of the strategic focus and diplomatic efforts spearheaded by President Nikos Christodoulides, which are already bringing significant benefits in defence and foreign policy, the statement added.

The announcement follows President Christodoulides’ meeting with President Biden at the White House last October, underscoring a new milestone in US-Cyprus relations. The Republic of Cyprus is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a vital role to play in fostering peace and addressing regional humanitarian challenges.

Through its inclusion in the EDA programme, Cyprus can now acquire surplus US defence equipment either as a grant or at significantly reduced costs, a development expected to accelerate the modernization of its military capabilities. Simultaneously, participation in the Foreign Military Sales programme allows Cyprus to procure advanced defence technology directly from the US government, further aligning the two nations’ shared strategic interests. Additionally, Title 10 programmes will bolster Cyprus’ capabilities in areas such as land and maritime border security through specialized training and equipment.

The Presidency highlighted that this decision marks a major upgrade in bilateral defence cooperation, solidifying Cyprus as a dependable regional partner. It also contributes to enhancing the National Guard’s modernization efforts, fortifying national defence, and strengthening Cyprus’ geopolitical influence.

“This strategic partnership underscores Cyprus’ role as a pillar of security, stability, and diplomacy in the region while reflecting the political stability and international credibility of the Cypriot state,” the statement said.

The White House echoed this sentiment, with President Biden’s determination, issued under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act, stating that the provision of defence articles and services to Cyprus would advance US security interests and promote global peace.

Addressing the Secretary of State, Biden authorised the necessary steps to notify Congress and ensure the decision’s publication in the Federal Register. “This action demonstrates the strategic value of Cyprus in the broader geopolitical landscape and reinforces the deepening cooperation between the two nations,” the statement read.

The decision is also seen as a powerful message of support for Cyprus’ efforts to resolve the ongoing division of the island, which has been split since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern third. Despite decades of UN-led negotiations, a lasting solution remains elusive, with the most recent talks in 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without agreement.

Forbes Middle East Unveils 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen Of 2025

Forbes Middle East has unveiled its much-anticipated 2025 ranking of the region’s top businesswomen, spotlighting influential leaders reshaping industries and driving meaningful transformation. The list was based on business size, individual accomplishments, leadership impact, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Top Spot For Hana Al Rostamani

For the third consecutive year, Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (UAE’s largest bank by assets), claims the top position. In addition to retaining her position in the Forbes Middle East ranking, she was also featured on Forbes’ 2024 list of the World’s Most Powerful Women, securing the 60th position globally. Under her leadership, the bank achieved an impressive $3.5 billion in net profits and $334.8 billion in assets in the first nine months of 2024.

Rising Stars In The Top 10

Shaikha Khaled Al Bahar of NBK Group and Shaista Asif, cofounder and Group CEO of PureHealth Holding, take the second and third spots respectively, completing the top three.

The top 10 remains largely unchanged from last year, with Tayba Al Hashemi of ADNOC Offshore, Alisha Moopen of Aster DM Healthcare GCC, and Suzanne Al Anani of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP) making their debut in the top 10. In total, 27 new leaders have joined the list this year.

A Diverse And Powerful Group Of Women

This year’s list features 100 women from 32 sectors and 29 nationalities, underlining the diversity of talent driving the region’s progress. The banking and financial services sector leads with 25 entries, followed by healthcare and technology with nine each, and venture capital with five. Remarkably, 40% of the top 10 women are from the banking and financial services sector. Notably, Shaista Asif (PureHealth Holding) and Alisha Moopen (Aster DM Healthcare GCC) are the only non-Arab women in the top 10.

UAE Leads With 46 Leaders

The UAE continues to dominate, with 46 of the women on the list hailing from the country, solidifying its status as a global business hub. Egypt follows with 18 influential women, and Saudi Arabia claims nine entries. Egyptians lead in representation, followed by Emiratis and Lebanese women.

Empowering Women Through Initiatives

Several of the leaders have focused on upskilling and creating opportunities for women. Susana Rodriguez Puerta launched the ‘sAIdaty’ initiative in collaboration with the Dubai Business Women Council, aimed at providing 500 female council members in the UAE with AI skills. Similarly, Lamia Tazi of SOTHEMA collaborated with the Foundation for Research, Development, and Innovation in Science and Engineering to provide scholarships to PhD students from low-income backgrounds.

Click here for the full list.

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