The goal of the Cypriot government remains the strengthening of the Republic of Cyprus’s defense and deterrence capabilities through strategic cooperation with countries such as the United States and France, as well as alignment with the standards and procedures of international organizations like NATO, said government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis.
During a press briefing, the spokesperson also emphasized the importance of proper preparation for the expanded five-party meeting aimed at resuming negotiations on the Cyprus issue.
When asked whether the potential NATO membership of Cyprus would be discussed during the Intergovernmental Summit with Greece, the spokesperson highlighted the Republic’s goal of enhancing its defense program to the greatest extent possible.
This, he noted, is demonstrated through the government’s actions, including discussions during the recent meeting between the President of the Republic and the U.S. President, focusing on strengthening cooperation in defense and security. These areas are also part of the strategic dialogue, he added.
Letymbiotis said that Cyprus’ objective is to achieve as much alignment as possible between the country’s defense planning and the standards of an organisation like NATO or its member states, whether this involves personnel training, adoption of protocols, or the progression and structuring of our armament programs.
In this effort, partnerships with countries such as France and the U.S. are being utilized. He also noted that Turkey’s stance on such discussions is well-known and includes political dimensions.
Letymbiotis added Cyprus will continue its efforts to strengthen its deterrence and defense capabilities and to enhance its significant role in the region through important partnerships with other nations. This includes the country’s humanitarian role, whether through initiatives like the Amalthea Humanitarian Corridor or the evacuation of civilians from the region.
Date for Expanded Five-Party Meeting Not Finalised
Responding to another question, the spokesperson stated that no date has been finalised for the expanded five-party meeting, which stems from the meeting between the President of the Republic and Ersin Tatar in the presence of the UN Secretary-General.
He said that our information is that UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo is expected to visit the region as part of the preparation for this meeting, which we welcome.
He reiterated that the government is focused on ensuring proper preparation for this meeting, emphasizing that convening an expanded meeting is not an end in itself.
He said that the goal is to hold an expanded meeting that could act as a springboard for further momentum on the Cyprus issue, ultimately aiming for the resumption of negotiations from where they left off.
He added that the government is in contact with the Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations but has not been informed of specific dates for DiCarlo’s visit.
Regarding the meeting with Tatar on opening new crossing points, he noted that preparatory work is being carried out at the level of established meetings between negotiators from both sides, but no specific date has been set for the President’s meeting.
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Source: ANA-MPA
