The Republic of Cyprus chooses, through actions rather than words, to be a source of stability and cooperation, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of air traffic and the continuation of international air connections, even in difficult times, said the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, in his address at the inauguration ceremony of the Nicosia Air Traffic Control Centre in Kokkinotrimithia.
According to the President of the Republic, the new Nicosia Flight Control Centre, which was inaugerated on the evening of 8 October, "significantly enhances flight safety, the credibility of our state, and the regional role of our country as a pillar of security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean."
He added that through the use of modern equipment, advanced technologies, and highly trained personnel it is ensured that flight management complies with the highest European and international safety standards, as set by the International Civil Aviation Organization and the European Union, while at the same time, with the operation of the Centre, Cyprus is actively strengthening its participation in the creation of the Single European Sky, contributing significantly to the development of the European transport network and the safety of millions of passengers.
Geopolitical challenges
The Nicosia FIR covers a wider area of strategic importance in the Eastern Mediterranean, where geopolitical challenges remain intense, President Christodoulides said.
He recalled that, in the context of the negotiations for the resolution of the Cyprus problem, the Nicosia FIR was part of the difficult discussions, "because some were attempting through the negotiations to secure part of the Nicosia FIR precisely because it is an important comparative advantage for our country in the Eastern Mediterranean."
"Within this difficult context of challenges in the region, the Republic of Cyprus chooses, through actions rather than words, to be a source of stability and cooperation, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of air traffic and the continuation of international air connections, even in difficult times," he stressed.
He added that this was also proven during the recent crises in the region, when Cyprus took on an increased flight load, always serving safely, tens of thousands of diverted flights, demonstrating the seriousness, readiness, and reliability of the Services of the Republic of Cyprus. "You understand the importance of this dimension in relation to the international standing of our country," he noted.
He also said that at the same time, these actions add value not only to the Republic of Cyprus but also to the EU and the region, while also sending a positive message to those who have entrusted their airspace to Cyprus, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, "because there are constant challenges to the International Civil Aviation Organization," proving in practice that "Cyprus is here as a reliable partner in the development of air transport, uniting with its strategic position, the East with the West, the North with the South, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of traffic to and from three continents - Europe, Asia, and Africa - to the European network."
Modern infrastructure
He also stressed that at the same time, the modern infrastructure at the new Flight Control Centre sends a message of consistency and reliability to all, "including Turkey, which unfortunately continues to act outside the framework of cooperation provided for by international regulations."
"The Nicosia Flight Control Centre is a symbol of a Cyprus that is evolving, investing, and proving that progress can be achieved through planning, consistency, and collective effort. It is proof that our state can, when it wants to, respond to the challenges of the times by implementing projects that enhance security, improve everyday life, and strengthen our country's international prestige. With the operation of the Centre, our country is taking another step towards a future that is safer, more reliable, and more connected to the world. A Cyprus that is shaping its future with determination, responsibility, and vision," he concluded.
International safety standards
In his own address, the Minister of Transport, Alexis Vafeades, the Centre is an important step in modernising the infrastructure and services of the Ministry, adding that it is a highly complex technical project that was implemented in accordance with the strictest international safety standards to ensure the smooth and efficient management of air traffic.
"With this project, Cyprus confirms its position as a reliable partner that responsibly fulfills its international obligations," he stressed.
The creation of the Centre is part of the Ministry of Transport's strategy to modernise infrastructure and strengthen Cyprus' connectivity, he noted, adding that such projects enhance transport safety, upgrade the country's prestige, and improve the services received by citizens.
"At a time of increasing air traffic and international challenges, the existence of a modern flight control centre is a guarantee for the safety and efficiency of flights. At the same time, it demonstrates Cyprus' position as an active member of the European aviation family, working closely with the European Commission and Eurocontrol for the more efficient and safer operation of the European Air Network," he concluded.
(Sources: CNA, PIO)
