Former President calls for calm and careful review
Speaking on Sigma’s “Protoselido” programme, former President Nikos Anastasiades said that discussions about the future of British bases in Cyprus are premature under current security conditions. He stressed the need to separate the issue of the bases’ existence from whether the UK has properly protected both the installations and the local population.
Responsibility and past agreements
Anastasiades said the UK should prioritise protecting the bases and the citizens living within them. He called speculation over a potential withdrawal untimely, noting that such a major issue requires measured consideration and consultation. He also recalled a 2014 agreement with then UK Prime Minister David Cameron that transferred base lands for development, highlighting that dialogue can achieve progress over time.
Praising international cooperation
The former President praised the current government’s actions, particularly President Nikos Christodoulides’ push to strengthen international partnerships. He singled out Greece’s rapid military support as a catalyst for other European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, to act. At the same time, he criticised the EU for largely remaining absent, despite the direct impact on regional security.
NATO membership challenges
On Cyprus’ potential NATO membership, Anastasiades repeated that the country should seek participation. He noted that accession requires consent from all member states and pointed out that Turkey’s non-recognition of the Republic of Cyprus makes progress difficult without prior political agreement.
Communication during the crisis
When asked about contact with the President during the crisis, Anastasiades said he received no calls and was not asked for advice, noting this remains at the sitting President’s discretion. He concluded by stressing that international presence in Cyprus protects the entire nation and population, not only specific communities, and urged that this message reach the global audience clearly.
Also read: Nicos Anastasiades: Not the time to raise issue of British bases
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