Cyprus’ strategic partnerships built over recent years proved their value during the current regional crisis, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said, stressing that relations with European partners are now being tested in real conditions for the first time.
Speaking on “Protoselido”, Letymbiotis said the mobilisation of partner countries showed that agreements signed by the Republic of Cyprus go beyond diplomacy and can function effectively during emergencies.
Partnerships proven in practice
Responding to remarks that the war tension led to unprecedented support for Cyprus, Letymbiotis said the situation confirmed what had previously seemed theoretical.
He noted that the Cyprus strategic partnerships are not simply documents but relationships capable of operating in real crises.
“These agreements are not lifeless papers. They can be tested in practice and they have been tested,” he said, adding that partner states responded immediately both politically and operationally.
According to him, countries that stand by the Republic of Cyprus moved quickly to offer support and coordination.
Presence of Greece and France sends message
Letymbiotis referred to the simultaneous visit of the Greek Prime Minister and the French President to Cyprus, saying it sent a strong political signal.
He said the presence of the two leaders demonstrated that Cyprus’ strategic partnerships function in reality and not only at diplomatic level.
He added that the development is important for Cypriot society, which historically viewed European solidarity with caution.
“For years we may not have fully believed this, but it is now clear that Europe is Cyprus and Cyprus is Europe,” he said.
Coordination with European states
The spokesman highlighted the quick coordination with European countries, including Greece, France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands, noting that contacts took place at operational level between governments.
He said the crisis showed both the strength of relations and the improved operational ability of the Republic of Cyprus to coordinate with partners.
According to Letymbiotis, this level of cooperation proves that the Cyprus strategic partnerships now function at a higher level than in the past.
No attack against Republic of Cyprus
Letymbiotis rejected claims that Cyprus had been targeted by drones or missiles, clarifying that no attack had taken place against the Republic of Cyprus.
He said a media briefing centre operated at the Presidential Palace to ensure transparency and immediate information to journalists.
“All incidents that became public were communicated clearly,” he said, noting that security measures were mainly linked to the British bases.
Turkey presence not comparable
The spokesman also referred to the long-standing military presence of Turkey in the occupied areas, stressing that the situation on the island has existed for decades.
He said there can be no comparison between Cyprus’ cooperation with EU partners and the actions of an occupying force.
The Republic of Cyprus, he noted, acts within international law and EU frameworks, unlike Turkey, which still occupies 36% of the island.
Preventive measures during regional crisis
Letymbiotis said the meeting with the Greek Prime Minister and the French President focused on preventive measures related to the regional crisis and not on specific discussions about Turkey.
He added that the conditions do not currently require activation of the EU mutual assistance clause, although support from partners is already visible in practice.
“We see indirect activation of solidarity mechanisms through the assistance already offered,” he said.
Incidents near British bases
He confirmed that two recent incidents near the Akrotiri bases originated from the Lebanon area, including the interception of a drone and another aerial incident.
He also mentioned reports of a missile launched from Iran towards Turkey, which Ankara confirmed.
Shelter shortages acknowledged
Letymbiotis admitted that Cyprus faces shortages in civil defence shelters, saying the issue was identified when the government took office.
He said efforts are under way to increase the number of shelters and evaluate existing infrastructure, while legislation is being prepared to strengthen the system.
He noted that some shelters belong to private owners, which creates practical difficulties.
No country, he added, has full shelter coverage, with around 70% considered sufficient internationally.
Macron message of support
French President Emmanuel Macron also sent a message of support during his visit to Cyprus, posting on X that France stands by the country and its people.
Macron visited the “Andreas Papandreou” air base where he met President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, before travelling to Souda and the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, which is expected in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Also read: Christodoulides, Macron and Mitsotakis send message of unity and solidarity
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