President Nikos Christodoulides said strengthening the National Guard remains a top priority for Cyprus as he addressed the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 intake of conscripts at the Tassos Papadopoulos – Eleftheria Indoor Arena in Nicosia on Friday.
He said the government is committed to transforming the National Guard into a modern, flexible and reliable force capable of responding effectively to defence, security and humanitarian challenges.
Defence capabilities being strengthened
Addressing the recruits, the President noted that they are beginning their military service at a time when Cyprus is commemorating the victims of the 1974 coup and the Turkish invasion.
He said the oath taken by the conscripts carries the responsibility of honouring those who defended the Republic during the events of 1974 and safeguarding the country’s freedom, security and dignity.
Christodoulides stressed that, with part of Cyprus remaining under Turkish occupation and the country facing ongoing security challenges, strengthening the National Guard is a key government priority.
He added that the Republic is continuing to upgrade its operational capabilities and military strength in response to an increasingly complex regional security environment.
Investment in defence and infrastructure
The President said Cyprus is making full use of the European Union’s SAFE financial instrument to strengthen defence capabilities in critical sectors while supporting the participation of Cyprus’ domestic defence industry in European cooperation programmes.
He also referred to plans to modernise the country’s naval and air infrastructure.
According to Christodoulides, Cyprus has also strengthened its strategic partnerships with France, the United States and other countries in the fields of defence and security, reflecting the Republic’s growing regional role.
Focus on personnel
The President said the government continues to invest in the personnel of the National Guard, focusing on improved training, professional development and addressing long-standing issues affecting both male and female members of the force.
He encouraged the new conscripts to take pride in serving their country and reminded them of the sacrifice made by previous generations, particularly those who remained in service to defend Cyprus during the Turkish invasion in 1974.
Christodoulides also assured families that every effort would be made to ensure the recruits complete their military service in safe, productive and dignified conditions.
Army chief urges readiness
Earlier, Chief of the National Guard Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou addressed the new conscripts, telling them they had pledged loyalty to the Republic, its Constitution and its laws.
He urged soldiers, sailors and airmen to remain prepared in light of the continued presence of Turkish forces in the occupied part of the island and wider regional developments, saying Cyprus requires well-trained and determined personnel to safeguard its defence.
Also read: National Council meets before UN visit
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
