I am pleased to share my latest research, “Revisiting the Foreign Policy of the Republic of Cyprus and Quasi-Alliances in the Eastern Mediterranean,” where I analyze how Cyprus has adapted to geopolitical shifts and positioned itself within evolving regional power structures.

Abstract

The Eastern Mediterranean has emerged as a significant geopolitical region in the 21st century, influenced by both intra-regional dynamics and the strategic interests of international powers. The Republic of Cyprus (RoC)—a small state within this region—has endeavored to adapt to the evolving international landscape and promote its own strategic interests. This paper examines the RoC’s foreign policy in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly its involvement in regional cooperation and the formation of quasi-alliances. The primary focus is twofold: situating the RoC’s foreign policy within the international-regional nexus (particularly US policy in the Eastern Mediterranean and US–RoC relations) and assessing its strategic objectives and priorities. The analysis revisits the formation of quasi-alliances, such as the Israel–Cyprus–Greece and Egypt–Cyprus–Greece partnerships, and regional networks of cooperation. The key questions addressed include the success of RoC policy since the early 2010s, the positives and negatives of its approach, and the preconditions for a more effective foreign policy. The paper concludes that, despite notable progress, the RoC’s foreign policy suffers from a lack of vision, strategic planning, and institutional capacities, making it vulnerable to domestic politics, populist rhetoric, and geopolitical shifts.

Key Insights from the Paper

🔹 The rise of quasi-alliances – Cyprus has formed strategic partnerships with Israel, Greece, and Egypt, strengthening its regional presence.
🔹 Perceptions of threat vis-a-vis Turkey and the prospect of energy cooperation played a key role in shaping regional quasi-alliances.
🔹 The role of the United States – Over time, Washington has integrated Cyprus into its regional security framework, lifting arms embargoes and expanding cooperation.
🔹 Challenges & limitations – While these partnerships have enhanced Cyprus’ diplomatic reach, they remain informal, lack military commitments, and are often vulnerable to external geopolitical shifts.
🔹 The need for stronger strategic planning – For Cyprus to maintain and expand its influence, it must enhance institutional capacities and develop a more proactive foreign policy vision.

This research contributes to the broader discourse on small state foreign policy, regional security dynamics, and energy geopolitics in the Eastern Mediterranean.

📄 You can read the full paper here

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