President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades received on Friday a congratulatory letter from US President Barack Obama, on the occasion of the 56th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus.

Obama refers in his letter to ongoing settlement talks for the reunification of Cyprus, expressing his belief that “a settlement is within reach”.

“On behalf of the people of the United States, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to you and to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 56th anniversary” of Independence, the US President says.

He goes on to say that the US value their partnership with the Republic of Cyprus, which they worked to strengthen over the past few years. Together, he adds, “we have broadened our efforts to promote stability and combat terrorism in the region. We have fostered greater opportunities for regional economic integration, and we will continue to work with you to strengthen further our bilateral security, trade, and investment ties as well”.

Obama also commends the “significant progress” that is being made toward achieving a just and lasting settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation.

He adds that a settlement would unlock great potential for regional cooperation and would offer all Cypriots a brighter future. President Obama notes finally that the US remain deeply committed to supporting efforts for a Cyprus solution.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-led talks have been underway since May 2015, aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof