New Jersey and Cyprus National Guards Unite in Historic Partnership

New Jersey National Guard and Republic of Cyprus National Guard Formalize Partnership

NICOSIA, CYPRUS – The New Jersey National Guard and the Republic of Cyprus National Guard announced a formal partnership through the State Partnership Program during a signing ceremony today at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. 

This marks the second formal partnership for New Jersey, aiming to enhance security cooperation, promote diplomatic ties, encourage economic development, and strengthen natural disaster and emergency response.

The State Partnership Program, an initiative of the U.S. Department of Defense, has facilitated military-to-military engagements across the globe for the past 30 years. The partnership between New Jersey and the Republic of Albania, ongoing for 22 years, has demonstrated the program's ability to advance national security objectives.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy praised the partnership, stating, "For three decades, the State Partnership Program has demonstrated success all over the world, and I have every confidence that ours will be a rewarding endeavor as well."

The U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense approved the partnership in October 2022, which will build on the growing relationship between Cyprus and the United States.

Cyprus Minister of Defense Michalis Giorgallas expressed enthusiasm for the new chapter in Cyprus-U.S. relations, and U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Julie D. Fisher voiced anticipation for the partnership's outcomes. 

“Cyprus – U.S. relations have never been stronger and we are always seeking new avenues for cooperation, in order to further strengthen this strategic partnership,” said Republic of Cyprus Minister of Defense Michalis Giorgallas. “We are extremely excited for this new chapter of our evolving and rapidly growing defense cooperation, namely our accession to the prestigious State Partnership Program and our pairing with New Jersey’s National Guard."

“We look forward to witnessing what great things will come of the ties forged by this partnership in the coming years,” said U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Julie D. Fisher.

More than 25 New Jersey National Guard leaders visited Cyprus this week to initiate discussions on collaboration in areas including disaster response support, search and rescue, communications and intelligence, cyber defense, military medical procedures, and leadership development.

Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey, emphasized the commitment of the New Jersey National Guard to work with the Cypriot National Guard in the pursuit of common goals.

“Today is just the beginning,” said Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey and the head of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Our motivation and dedication are never just symbolic. The Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard are ready to get to work – together – with our Cypriot National Guard partners.”