Cyprus strengthens deterrence as President hails new systems and foreign contingents

The presence of foreign troops at this year’s Independence Day parade was welcomed by Nicos Christodoulides as being the clear indication of the country’s strategic partnerships, noting that the new systems displayed were part of a continued effort to strengthen deterrence, against Turkish occupation and with Cyprus being located in a highly significant geopolitical region. ‘The Republic of Cyprus has moved forward with growth in spite the occupation, strengthening its position’, the President noted, adding that the country’s goal was continue focusing on the internal and external factors of deterrence, including a competitive, resilient economy that can withstand standard of living challenges, such as prices, health and housing problems. At international level, he, added, the Republic’s role is now recognised, with its status upgraded, serving the top priority of liberating Cyprus. ‘This effort will not stop against the backdrop of difficulties and issues’, the President noted. The country shall continue to procure new armaments, also utilising the SAFE defence programmes, but also investing in its naval and air infrastructures. Greek defence minister Nikos Dendias, who attended the parade, noted that freedom, sovereignty, security and democracy demand defence and deterrence capabilities. ‘This is what we are currently doing, in accordance with international law and the law of the sea’, he added. Greece will never be far away, the defence ministry commented, following the F-16 flyovers and the participation of the Greek armed forces in Cyprus. Defence minister Vasilis Palmas said that in a constantly changing geopolitical environment, security and peace, requires operational readiness and an effective response to current challenges. ‘Security remains our priority’, he said, through modernising and upgrading defence capabilities and strategic partnerships. House Speaker Annita Demetriou said she was proud of the National Guard and also felt the sense of responsibility in protecting and safeguarding Cyprus, through strengthening defence and partnerships, with the ‘presence of Greece clearly seen across Cyprus skies’.