Nicosia: Cyprus' security is a collective responsibility of the European Union, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, stated on Monday morning. He emphasized that the visit of the leaders of Greece and France to Cyprus later in the day underscores this significant message.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the President, upon his arrival at an event in Larnaca, was questioned by journalists about the impending visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and French President Emmanuel Macron to the island. President Christodoulides remarked on the importance of the visit, highlighting that the core message it conveys is that Cyprus' security is a collective responsibility of the European Union.
He further elaborated that the EU member states' prompt response to Nicosia's request for assistance sets a precedent for the EU to actively demonstrate its commitment to defending its borders. He noted the presence of numerous EU member states' vessels in Cyprus as being particularly crucial. When asked about Cyprus' satisfaction with the EU's presence, he acknowledged that this was an unprecedented response and described the development as significantly important.
In another development, the President addressed Lebanese media reports speculating about potential direct talks between Lebanon and Israel taking place in Cyprus. He mentioned having spoken with the President of Lebanon earlier in the day, and stated that they would proceed with a formal announcement once there is concrete information, ensuring transparency.
In the early hours of March 2, a Shahed-type drone attack targeted military facilities within the British Bases located in Akrotiri, on the southern tip of Cyprus. This incident, amidst ongoing regional tensions following US-Israeli attacks on Iran, caused minor damage. The drone, of Iranian origin and suspected to be linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon, led to increased security measures. Responding to the situation, Greece and France announced the deployment of warships, aircraft, and other air defense assets to safeguard Cyprus, with the UK also dispatching a warship. Notably, Nicosia has consistently clarified its non-involvement in the broader Middle East conflict.