Copenhagen: President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, has emphasized that nations infringing upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of EU member states are ineligible to partake in the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides addressed these issues during the informal European Council Summit on Wednesday and the European Political Community Summit on Thursday, both held in Copenhagen. He underscored three pivotal points: the exclusion of sovereignty-violating countries from SAFE, the enhancement of EU-NATO cooperation without restrictions on the 27 Member States, and the necessity for a comprehensive EU strategy extending beyond Ukraine to include regions like the Middle East, thereby fortifying Cyprus’ defense infrastructure.
In a press release, the Presidency revealed that President Christodoulides, upon his arrival at the European Political Community Summit, remarked on the productive discussions concerning defense and security, acknowledging significant groundwork laid by previous Polish and Danish Presidencies. He highlighted that the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU will further institutionalize these initiatives, prioritizing the EU’s advancement with tangible actions.
Regarding the SAFE instrument, the President reiterated Cyprus’ commitment to enhancing national defense and security, stating that over one billion euros have been allocated to Cyprus for this purpose. Collaborations with strategic partners, such as the USA, will also be explored to bolster Cyprus’ deterrence capabilities and its promising defense industry, which is poised for collaboration with other EU member states and regional countries.
He further explained that procurement of armament programs in Cyprus would necessitate a minimum 15% participation from Cypriot defense industries. The discussions also addressed three widely understood issues among member states: exclusion of sovereignty-violating countries from SAFE, EU-NATO cooperation without limitations, and the EU’s proactive role in regions beyond Ukraine, particularly focusing on the Middle East and strengthening Cyprus’ military bases.
During talks with the European Investment Bank and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Christodoulides discussed the inclusion of defense and security issues for EU financial support and EU-NATO relations, respectively. He reiterated that NATO member states contravening EU sovereignty cannot benefit from SAFE, and stressed Turkey’s potential participation hinges on positive developments in the Cyprus issue.
In anticipation of the Cyprus EU Presidency in January 2026, President Christodoulides plans to engage with leaders from Ukraine, Moldova, and other countries seeking to enhance their EU relations. Cyprus remains divided since Turkey’s 1974 invasion and occupation of its northern third, with numerous UN-led peace initiatives failing to resolve the conflict, the latest being in July 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland.