Nicosia: Cyprus' Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fitiris, announced the establishment of a Coast Guard, which will operate independently of the Police.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Minister, speaking at a press conference in Nicosia, detailed the Coast Guard's jurisdiction, which will extend from the coastline to Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The central components of this new body will include the Coast Guard itself and a helicopter squadron. Fitiris emphasized the collaborative efforts that will be made with the Ports Authority, which manages the maritime monitoring system, and the Fisheries Department's vessels under the Ministry of Agriculture. This proposal is set to be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.
Fitiris pointed out the importance of consolidating responsibilities within the small state, stating, "The time has finally come to join forces, cut costs and have rapid response with high efficiency. This is the goal and I believe we will achieve it." Additionally, the Minister announced plans for a Critical Infrastructure Protection Unit, which will focus on safeguarding key sites such as airports, fiber optic installations, and the energy center.