Cypriot Defence Minister: Cyprus, Egypt's cooperation, Guided by Desire for Regional Stability

Cyprus and Egypt have forged a close and sincere cooperation guided by their mutual desire to achieve regional stability, Minister of Defence Vasilis Palmas said on Monday evening in Nicosia addressing an event to mark the Egyptian Armed Forces Day.

In his speech, he noted that in today’s modern and rapidly evolving environment, particularly in the fragile region of the Eastern Mediterranean, the role of our Armed Forces becomes even more significant.

Today, he said, guided by our mutual desire to achieve regional stability, security, and peace, and to effectively address common challenges, Cyprus and Egypt have forged a close and sincere cooperation in the fields of defense and security.

In this context, Palmas added, we have agreed on a bilateral cooperation program as well as on a trilateral mechanism with Greece, within which joint exercises and training are conducted, to the benefit of our Armed Forces. Notable examples include the exercises "BRIGHT STAR," "MEDUSA," and "ARGONAUT".

Noting that Cyprus and Egypt remain united and steadfast in our commitment, to protect our citizens and to contribute to the return of stability, security, and peace to the region, he said that the crisis in Gaza has escalated into a broader conflict with immense consequences.

"The Republic of Cyprus wishes to see an end to the cycle of violence and the establishment of peace and security in the region" the Defence Minister said, adding that "we reiterate our position that further escalation must be avoided. We call for a political solution based on two states, in line with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. This is the only way to create conditions of peace and stability in the region and to ensure the security of both Israelis and Palestinians".

Peace and prosperity in the region can only be achieved through mutual respect and understanding, he underlined.

Palmas said that "in this context, recognising the importance of maintaining constructive relations with all countries, including our neighbours, I would like to underline that our military cooperation is not a provocation to anyone".

"Peaceful coexistence is not only a goal but a necessity in today’s world. Collective security is strengthened and reinforced when we pursue understanding, dialogue, and cooperation, instead of confrontation and conflict", he went on to say.

Concluding, he noted that this anniversary reminds us that together, we can build a more promising future for our people and for the Eastern Mediterranean.