Cyprus NATO membership was placed at the centre of defence policy discussions on Tuesday, as President Nikos Christodoulides said the country is ready to join the alliance when political conditions allow.
Speaking at the DEFEA Conference 2026 in Athens, the President stressed that strengthening defence, boosting deterrence and supporting Cyprus’s defence industry remain top government priorities.
Disagreement over EU defence autonomy
Addressing broader European defence policy, Christodoulides expressed disagreement with the stance of NATO leadership that the European Union cannot advance in security and defence without US cooperation.
He argued that the EU has both the capacity and political will to act independently.
“A stronger and strategically autonomous EU in defence and security will also be a stronger partner for NATO,” he said, reiterating that Cyprus NATO membership remains a long-term objective.
Defence seen as pillar of stability
The President underlined that in a period marked by geopolitical uncertainty and conflict, defence readiness is essential for ensuring stability and security.
He added that security is closely linked to economic growth and investment, particularly in Cyprus, which continues to face challenges linked to Turkish military presence.
Christodoulides pointed to growing European commitment to defence spending, referencing key decisions taken at EU level in 2025.
He highlighted the “Security Action for Europe” (SAFE) initiative, which provides up to €150 billion in defence investment across the EU.
For Cyprus, funding of approximately €1.2 billion is expected, with planning already underway to utilise these resources. The President also referred to Article 42(7) of the EU Treaty, which includes a mutual defence clause.
He stressed that the provision must move beyond theory and become a fully operational mechanism, with a clear blueprint agreed for its activation by member states.
Cyprus defence industry shows growth potential
Highlighting progress in the domestic sector, Christodoulides said Cyprus’s defence industry has strong growth prospects.
He noted that around 30 high-tech Cypriot companies are active in defence, while 18 firms are participating in 70 European defence programmes.
The government aims to increase the sector’s contribution to GDP into double digits through coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors.
Source: CNA
Also read: Cyprus President calls British Bases a “colonial remnant”
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
