The need to strengthen the European Union’s security and defence, as well as Greece’s contribution to enhancing the deterrent capacity of the Republic of Cyprus, were central topics of discussion during a meeting on Wednesday between Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias.
Speaking at the beginning of the meeting Christodoulides, stressed the importance of decisions made during the recent informal European Council regarding the need to enhance the EU’s defence and security, a presidency press release issued here today says.
He noted that these crucial decisions would be formalized at the upcoming European Council, highlighting the EU’s responsibility for the defence of its member states. He also pointed out that this initiative aligned with the broader objectives of achieving strategic autonomy and strengthening the EU’s geopolitical role.
“The two countries (Greece and Cyprus) have jointly submitted a letter to the European Investment Bank regarding defence spending, and I look forward to discussing this matter with you,” Christodoulides told Dendias.
He also referred to Cyprus’ defence priorities, including the expansion of the ‘Andreas Papandreou’ Air Base and the upgrading of the ‘Evangelos Florakis’ Naval Base. Additionally, he expressed the desire to discuss other defence equipment matters.
“In this effort, we count on your support, as always, to achieve our clear objective: strengthening the deterrent capabilities of the Republic of Cyprus,” he said.
On his part, Dendias highlighted the extensive and productive discussions he had with his Cypriot counterpart, congratulating Christodoulides on the achievements of the government. He specifically referred to the new US initiative regarding American military equipment, as well as Christodoulides efforts to reposition the Cyprus issue “in line with UN resolutions.”
Regarding EU defence and security, Dendias criticised the bloc’s approach in the past, describing it as “schizophrenic” due to its restrictive fiscal limits on defence expenditures. He noted that strategic autonomy could not be achieved within such narrow financial constraints and expressed hope that the EU is now moving toward a more rational approach.
He further endorsed Christodoulides’ stance on Europe’s need to defend its own territory, while reassuring NATO allies that this initiative is not at odds with Europe’s commitments to the Alliance but is instead “entirely compatible and beneficial.”
( Source: CNA)
