Kornos: The National Guard is stronger than ever, President Nikos Christodoulides announced during a visit to the ‘Stavros Stylianides’ camp in Kornos, located in the Larnaca district, on the occasion of the Easter holidays. He emphasized that the Republic of Cyprus, situated in a region of significant geostrategic importance, must continuously bolster its deterrent power.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides revealed that for the first time in September, a Cypriot man or woman will be sent to the US Naval Academy to study, marking a milestone in the relations between Cyprus and the United States, particularly in defense and security. The President, who was accompanied by the Minister of Defence, the Chief of the National Guard, and other officials, expressed his gratitude to the soldiers and officers for their service to the homeland.
President Christodoulides affirmed that in 2025, the National Guard is at its strongest. He highlighted Cyprus’s status as a state under Turkish occupation and a member of the European Union, insisting that it has an obligation to continually enhance its deterrent capabilities. The President stated, “The strengthening of the deterrent power of the Republic of Cyprus, of the National Guard, primarily depends on all of you, the officers and conscripts, our national guardsmen.”
He emphasized the importance of investing in the personnel of the National Guard, describing it as a crucial factor in fortifying the nation’s defense. Regarding armament, the President identified it as a priority for his administration. He also noted his satisfaction with the European Union’s progress in enhancing its defense capabilities within the framework of strategic autonomy, acknowledging Cyprus’s role in advocating for this advancement.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be achieved, with the latest negotiations in July 2017 at Crans-Montana in Switzerland ending without success.