Athens:A Joint Declaration was adopted on Thursday during a Trilateral Meeting of Defence Policy Directors from Cyprus, Greece, and Israel, in Athens. The declaration condemned the Turkish-Libyan maritime Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), describing it as illicit and a violation of the sovereign rights of third states. The declaration argues that the MoU disregards international rules governing maritime jurisdiction and cannot produce legal effects with respect to third states.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Ministry of Defence issued a statement in which the parties reaffirmed their support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and international law. They also expressed opposition to unilateral claims, coercive practices, threats of the use of force, and the bolstering of destabilizing military forces.
The joint declaration emphasized that no country in the region should serve as a base for actions that threaten regional security. The three countries explored ways to translate shared strategic interests into practical trilateral cooperation through exchanges, joint initiatives, and regular dialogue between relevant authorities.
In fostering partnerships, they highlighted the importance of cooperation in the defense industry, including opportunities for joint development, production, and technological collaboration. They agreed to establish a working group on the defense industry to enhance collective capabilities, improve interoperability, and strengthen the industrial foundation of their security partnership.
Addressing common security challenges, such as terrorism and the proliferation of advanced weaponry, was also a key focus. The delegations agreed to strengthen coordination in addressing emerging threats and to bolster their collective resilience. They underscored the importance of upholding the law of the sea, adhering to internationally recognized principles governing maritime rights and jurisdiction.
Energy cooperation was highlighted as a pillar of regional stability and resilience, with opposition expressed to any attempts to obstruct it in violation of international law. They also stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and the protection of critical infrastructure and energy supply routes for security and prosperity in Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
The trilateral partnership was described as being grounded in shared democratic values and complementary strategic interests, serving as a platform for strategic coordination and a framework for responsible regional cooperation. This partnership is seen as contributing to the security of the Eastern Mediterranean and strengthening ties between Europe and the Middle East. Bilateral meetings were also held on the sidelines of the trilateral meeting with Greece and Israel.