London: The first Cyprus-United Kingdom Defence Industry Conference was held in London earlier this week. 'This is an initiative that marks the upgrading of bilateral cooperation in the fields of defence and technology,' the organisers told CNA.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the event, hosted at the Cyprus High Commission in the British capital, brought together senior government officials as well as representatives of Defence Industry Association companies from both countries. 'The conference confirmed the shared determination of Nicosia and London to deepen cooperation in a sector of high priority,' the organisers told CNA.
In his opening remarks, High Commissioner Dr Kyriacos Kouros underlined the strategic role of Cyprus as a bridge between Europe and the wider Middle East region. He stressed that Cyprus is systematically investing in the creation of a modern, innovative, and outward-looking defence-technology ecosystem. He described the United Kingdom as a 'natural, longstanding and reliable partner' with whom Cyprus shares common strategic objectives and interests relating to the stability and security of the Eastern Mediterranean.
For his part, Cyprus' Defence Attach in the UK, Lieutenant Colonel (Air) Kyprianos Savva, highlighted Nicosia's efforts to strengthen both its operational capabilities and its domestic defence industry. He noted that the Government is working to develop partnerships with key international partners, investing in innovation and the transition to advanced technologies. 'The United Kingdom, with its strong presence in the international defence market and its leading expertise, is a partner with whom Cyprus can develop substantial and mutually beneficial cooperation,' he stressed.
Subsequently, senior officials from the two Ministries of Defence presented the strategic directions for the development of the defence industry, analysing priorities as well as current challenges.
Particular interest was drawn by the panel dedicated to investment opportunities between Cyprus and the United Kingdom. The panel presented incentives, support tools and the requirements necessary for long-term cooperation. Participants emphasized, among other points, that aligning strategic priorities and utilising institutional cooperation mechanisms can significantly boost investment attractiveness and accelerate technological progress in both countries.
The conference also featured presentations on the activities of the Cyprus and UK Defence Industry Associations, as well as the opportunities offered by the two markets. The programme concluded with presentations from 20 Cypriot and British companies active in various defence sectors including cyber defence, unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, space and communications, showcasing both the dynamism of the Cypriot industry and the mature technological base of the United Kingdom.
'The conference confirmed that Cyprus - UK cooperation can be expanded across the full spectrum of defence technologies, opening new pathways for synergies, investments and joint research programmes,' the organisers noted to CNA.