Cyprus-France defence cooperation has come under scrutiny following commentary published in Daily Sabah by Turkish columnist Hüseyin Işıksal, who argues that Cyprus is increasingly turning into a “military platform” for Western powers in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The comments focus on the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Cyprus on 24 April and the announcement that a Status of Forces Agreement is expected to be signed in June, allowing the presence of French military personnel on the island.
According to the article, Cyprus-France defence cooperation is part of a broader framework that includes joint military exercises, defence industry collaboration, technology transfer and training programmes.
The author claims the Cypriot government is seeking to strengthen its security through powerful external alliances, while France aims to expand its strategic footprint in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In regard to Cyprus talks, Işıksal stated that the Cypriot government is aiming to disregard Turkish Cypriots in the negotiation process. He states, “Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot sides, previously regarded as equal at least at the negotiation table, will no longer be treated as such in future negotiation processes. This objective also helps explain the motivation behind the Greek Cypriot administration’s pursuit of military alliances.”
Allegations of regional tensions
The commentary further argues that Cyprus’ defence partnerships with the United States, Israel and France are directed against Turkish Cypriots and Turkey, suggesting they are creating “faits accomplis” on the island.
It also references energy developments in the region, claiming that Cyprus–France alignment seeks to exclude Turkey and the “TRNC” from regional energy arrangements.
Claims of increased instability
The article concludes that Cyprus-France defence cooperation and wider military alliances do not increase security for Cyprus but instead deepen its involvement in regional tensions.
It states that Cyprus is effectively “buying security with insecurity,” arguing that such policies could further destabilise the Eastern Mediterranean.
Information and picture from the Daily Sabah
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