A reunified Cyprus is finally within reach, US Secretary of State John Kerry noted in a statement on the Occasion of Independence Day in Cyprus.

“On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the people of Cyprus as you celebrate the 56th anniversary of your nation’s Independence” Kerry said in his statement.

He stressed that “the bonds of friendship between the Republic of Cyprus and the United States are rooted in common values of freedom and democracy, and can be seen in our joint efforts to promote peace, prosperity, and security for all our citizens”.

Together, he said, “we are acting to advance economic development for Cyprus’ businesses and workers, enhance border security, deepen our energy cooperation, counter violent extremism, and curb the proliferation of dangerous weapons”.

The US Secretary of State added that “we remain focused on finding a fair and lasting solution to the longstanding division of the island”.

He noted that the “Cypriot leaders have demonstrated tremendous dedication, persistence, and perseverance in pursuit of an agreement on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation – and I truly believe that a reunified Cyprus is finally within reach”.

President Anastasiades and Mustafa Akinci the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, have been engaged in peace talks under the UN aegis with the aim to find a solution to the Cyprus problem. The island has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.