To eliminate certain limitations and exclusions regarding defense articles and requirements regarding security assistance and sales with respect to the Republic of Cyprus.

2/6/2025, 3:03 AM

Summary of Bill HR 298

Bill 119 HR 298, also known as the "Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act of 2019," aims to eliminate certain restrictions and exclusions related to defense articles and security assistance for the Republic of Cyprus. The bill seeks to enhance security cooperation between the United States and Cyprus by lifting limitations on the transfer of defense articles and services to Cyprus.

Specifically, the bill would allow for the transfer of defense articles and services to Cyprus without the need for a presidential waiver, as is currently required. This would enable Cyprus to better defend itself against external threats and enhance its overall security capabilities.

Additionally, the bill aims to strengthen the partnership between the United States and Cyprus by promoting energy cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean region. This includes supporting the development of energy resources in the region and enhancing energy security for both countries. Overall, Bill 119 HR 298 seeks to bolster the security and defense capabilities of the Republic of Cyprus while also promoting cooperation and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region. It represents a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between the United States and Cyprus and enhancing security in the region.

Congressional Summary of HR 298

This bill eliminates certain statutory restrictions on U.S. security assistance to Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey.

For example, the bill eliminates requirements that the President

as a condition of transferring defense articles to Cyprus, annually certify to Congress that Cyprus is taking certain actions with regards to money laundering, financial regulatory oversight, and denying refueling and servicing to Russian military vessels; and
when requesting certain security assistance funds from Congress for Greece and Turkey, certify that providing such assistance is compatible with specified principles that support U.S. policy in the region (e.g., that such security assistance is intended solely for defensive purposes and preserves the balance of military strength among countries of the region).

Read the Full Bill

Formatted Text PDF Formatted XML

Current Status of Bill HR 298

Bill HR 298 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 9, 2025. Bill HR 298 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 9, 2025. Bill HR 298's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. as of January 9, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 298

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

Democrat Cosponsors

Republican Cosponsors

Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 298

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 298

To eliminate certain limitations and exclusions regarding defense articles and requirements regarding security assistance and sales with respect to the Republic of Cyprus.