Nicosia: As long as the Cyprus issue remains unresolved and occupation troops remain in place, we have a duty and an obligation to strengthen our defensive capabilities, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas stressed on Wednesday. He was replying to journalists' questions on the sidelines of his visit to the Nicosia-Kyrenia-Morphou Military Recruitment Office.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Palmas affirmed his satisfaction with the allocation of funds for military equipment in the 2026 state budget. He highlighted Cyprus's participation in the EU SAFE regulation, which grants the country £1.2 billion over five years to bolster the National Guard without affecting the annual defence budget. Palmas noted that regional developments have prompted an increase in defence funds to adapt to modern equipment needs, emphasizing the ongoing occupation of Cyprus for 51 years.
The Defence Minister reiterated the importance of enhancing defence capabilities to preserve sovereignty and territorial integrity amid the unresolved Cyprus issue. He stated that deterrence could foster conditions for peace. Palmas also highlighted the significance of recent diplomatic engagements, including President Nikos Christodoulides' visit to France and the UAE President's visit to Cyprus, emphasizing their focus on defence and security cooperation.
In his comments on the President's visit to France, Palmas lauded the long-standing cooperation with France on defence matters, which was further solidified by a recent partnership agreement signed during Christodoulides' meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. The Minister expressed optimism about the strengthening of bilateral relations.
Palmas also described the UAE President's visit to Cyprus as a positive development, noting its potential benefits not only in defence but also in energy and other sectors. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, including the latest round in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, a resolution remains elusive.