Defence Minister Vassilis Palmas, speaking on Sigma’s Protoselido programme, addressed a range of issues relating to defence, international relations, and the strengthening of the National Guard.
Palmas announced his upcoming visit to Serbia, where he will meet with his Serbian counterpart, underlining the excellent bilateral ties between the two countries. Commenting on Turkey’s reaction to the procurement of the Barak MX air defence system, he said the response was expected, stressing that it is the “elementary duty” of the Republic of Cyprus to enhance its defence.
“We are an independent state, internationally recognised, and we will not seek permission from anyone, least of all from the Turkish invaders,” he underlined.
The minister also described as moving the willingness of the Cypriot people to support national defence, pointing out the consensus that prevails within the House Defence Committee. On a video circulating on social media showing the system’s arrival, he noted that the government’s policy is to keep a low profile on armament matters to avoid public disputes that could harm national interests.
Referring to the SAFE programme, Palmas described it as a “very important development” with €1 billion in funding over five years under favourable loan terms, aimed at further strengthening the deterrent capacity of the National Guard.
Finally, he spoke about the decision to allow voluntary enlistment of women, beginning with registrations on 30 and 31 October this year. He said the initiative primarily seeks to give women the right to serve their country, while offering a 50% reduction in private university tuition fees for the duration of their studies as an incentive.
Also read: Turkish unease over arrival of Barak MX in Cyprus
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