Cyprus is in discussions with the United States and the European Union on plans to upgrade and modernise the Andreas Papandreou air base in Paphos and the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas confirmed on Sunday.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Palmas said feasibility studies and diplomatic consultations are under way, following a recent report by Phileleftheros newspaper.
“This is something we have announced for quite some time. The goal is to enhance both bases, which will support Cyprus’ increasingly important regional role, particularly given recent developments,” he said, referencing the crises in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as humanitarian and peacekeeping operations.
According to Palmas, talks are being held with the US regarding the air base and with EU officials for the naval base at Mari.
He noted that American officials have already visited the air base twice, submitting recommendations, while similar meetings have taken place with EU representatives regarding the naval base. The upgrade at Mari is described as a large-scale project, expected to be completed within two to three years, while the air base modernisation is estimated to take around 18 to 24 months.
Palmas stressed that both bases remain under Cypriot ownership and control, regardless of cooperation with international partners. “They are of Cypriot interest and Cypriot property,” he said, clarifying that no foreign ownership will be granted.
The bases will continue to support allied forces through training, information exchange, and broader missions such as civilian evacuations from crisis zones.
Cyprus’ geographic position as the easternmost EU member state reinforces its strategic role as a “bridge between the Mediterranean and Europe”, the minister added. He said full modernisation of the two bases is necessary to meet current international demands.
Source: CNA
Feature photo source: AeroResource
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