“The alliance between the US and Turkey is absolutely vital, not just for the two of us, and our security, but now as an engine around the turbulent region,” remarked Nuland while speaking at the Atlantic Council think tank in Washington Wednesday.

She added, “We’re not always going to see perfectly eye to eye on the tactics, but we always agree on the larger strategy. So it’s a matter of maintaining that open dialogue on what is to be done.”

Nuland reaffirmed US support for democratic developments in Turkey, saying, “We obviously stand on the side of those Turks who want more openness, more press freedom, want accountable government. We’ll never be shy about saying that. And I think that the beauty of our alliance is we can be honest when we disagree."

Right moment for Cyprus peace deal

Nuland said the US was impressed by the commitment of the two Cypriot sides led by Eroglu and Anastasiades over recent months to work together for a truly bi-zonal, bi-communal federation on the island.

She added, “Today, both the leadership and the shared interest are in place for a comprehensive settlement. This moment must not be squandered.”

According to the Assistant Secretary, the US appreciates the support of Turkey and Greece in developing a settlement between the two sides. She said that a potential solution to the long-time crisis will positively impact the region.

“And a settlement will have benefits far beyond the island. It will also have a profoundly positive effect across the Eastern [Mediterranean], and we know we need more good news in the [Mediterranean], and on NATO-EU relations,” she said.