Cyprus rejects Turkey’s criticism of defence cooperation — Cyprus Mail
Sources at Cyprus’s Ministry of Defence rejected Turkey’s criticism of the Republic of Cyprus’s military partnerships and arms programme. As Cyprus Mail reports, the ministry said that defence cooperation takes place between sovereign states that maintain friendly relations and complies with international law.
Turkey’s statement
Earlier, Turkey’s Ministry of Defence said it was closely monitoring military developments in Cyprus. The Turkish ministry believes that the continued arming of the republic and its military cooperation with third countries could negatively affect the fragile balance and security environment on the island.
In response, sources at Cyprus’s Ministry of Defence said that the republic’s partnerships are being developed with states that are members of the international community and maintain friendly relations with Cyprus. They stressed that defence cooperation is conducted on the basis of international law and, in maritime matters, the norms of international maritime law.
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Cooperation with Greece and Egypt
Cyprus’s Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas signed a joint statement with his counterparts from Greece, Nikos Dendias, and Egypt, Ashraf Salem Zaher. The parties committed to developing military cooperation and coordination between the armed forces of the three countries to strengthen security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Cyprus’s defence ministry also said that the partnerships are not directed against any state but are part of relations with friendly countries and broader efforts to maintain security and stability in the region. The publication notes that Cyprus is purchasing Israeli systems, including the Barak MX air defence system. Nearly €1.2 billion is also available to Cyprus through the EU’s SAFE defence mechanism.
Palmas previously stated that the Republic of Cyprus, as a recognised state, has the right to conclude agreements, develop relations and form alliances with any members of the international community it deems appropriate to choose. He also stressed that the country would not ask permission for arrangements in the fields of politics, defence or security.
