Brussels: Cyprus’ Minister of Defence Vassilis Palmas participated in the Foreign Affairs Council in the composition of Defence Ministers and in the European Defence Agency (EDA) Steering Board, both of which convened on Tuesday in Brussels.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in his intervention at the EDA Steering Board, Palmas highlighted the rapidly changing security environment. He emphasized the challenges the European Union faces in its eastern and southern regions due to constant threats and provocative behavior from Turkey towards Cyprus, which escalates tensions and could potentially provoke conflicts in the region.
During the Foreign Affairs Council, the Defence Ministers discussed various issues, including EU military support for Ukraine and ways to strengthen military assistance and cooperation within the defence industry. The meeting also featured a videoconference with Ukraine’s Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
The discussions also covered the EU’s defence preparedness, focusing on the progress of the implementation of the ‘White Paper’ for European Defence and the ReArm Europe Plan. Emphasis was placed on the need to accelerate these initiatives through coordinated efforts by member states, the European Defence Agency, the European Commission, and with the support of EDIP and SAFE financial instruments.
Following the Foreign Affairs Council, Palmas took part in the European Defence Agency (EDA) Steering Board’s work session, where he extended congratulations to the new Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency, Andre Denk, who officially assumed his duties on May 16, 2025. Palmas assured that Cyprus’ Ministry of Defence would continue supporting the EDA’s efforts to achieve more significant results.