Peace in the Middle East: Cyprus at the Heart of a New Era
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This week marks an unexpected but welcome moment of optimism. Across the globe, long-standing conflicts are cooling, new alliances are forming, and peace - long elusive - is finally breaking out in regions once dominated by hatred and division.
Flight Path Over Cyprus
Earlier this morning, Air Force One passed close to the skies above the ProACT Cyprus office on its historic journey to Israel. The flight symbolises a new chapter in diplomacy, as U.S. President Donald Trump embarks on what could be one of the most significant peace missions of the decade.
Earlier in 2025, the U.S. Air Force, under the Trump administration, established a new military airbase in Paphos, Cyprus. This base complements the existing Israeli Air Force facilities and the long-standing RAF military presence on the island. Together, they form a strategic triangle of cooperation - and a platform for peace —-at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
Cyprus: 200 Miles and a World Apart
Cyprus lies just 200 miles from Tel Aviv - yet in times of war, that distance can feel infinite. As peace returns, the island’s position could prove pivotal for NATO and European integration with the emerging economies of the Middle East.
A stable Cyprus can serve as a bridge between continents - linking Western democratic institutions with Middle Eastern states seeking modernisation, trade, and stability.
The Promise of Peace
Peace is good for all. The hope is for a revival of tolerance, coexistence, and secular governance across the region - where democratic freedoms and religious expression can flourish side by side.
The potential economic impact is just as significant. Middle Eastern nations are expanding their global reach - from Saudi Arabia’s sponsorship of the 2025 CONCACAF tournament to preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Peace brings investment, opportunity, and growth.
Turkey, NATO, and the Cyprus Question
Two weeks ago, President Trump and Turkey’s President Erdoğan met at the White House to advance a series of peace discussions - including Turkey’s full re-engagement with NATO as a crucial Eastern flank member.
That dialogue may also revive efforts to resolve the Cyprus division, now in its 50th year. The island remains split between Greek and Turkish zones, with no single government governing the whole. A fresh U.S.-backed dialogue could finally bring this long-standing issue to an end.
Schengen and European Integration
Cyprus is working to join the Schengen Area, with the goal of full entry in 2026. This timeline would coincide with its assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of that year.
While Cyprus has met many of the technical requirements, the formal entry still requires unanimous approval from all current Schengen members.
Resolving the political issues related to the divided island and its border with the Turkish-occupied north remains a key challenge in the accession process..
Cyprus: A Gateway for Global Citizens
A unified, peaceful Cyprus would offer even greater opportunities for expatriates and international families. With its low-tax regime, EU membership, and Mediterranean lifestyle, Cyprus continues to attract global entrepreneurs and remote professionals seeking freedom of movement and favourable living conditions.
ProACT Sam says:
Peace doesn’t just benefit politicians - it builds bridges for businesses, families, and expats. Cyprus is emerging as one of the world’s most strategic hubs for global living - where East meets West and opportunity meets lifestyle.
For expert guidance on living, working, or relocating abroad - including Cyprus tax residency, EU mobility, and international planning - contact us.
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