Cyprus Defence Minister, Vasilis Palmas and UK Defence Secretary, John Healy, discussed on Tuesday in London about the need for additional security measures to protect citizens living in areas around the British Bases in Cyprus, especially whenever regional crises arise, Palmas told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) after their meeting.
Moreover, the two Ministers discussed about the situation in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine and bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
In his statement, Palmas described the meeting as “quite constructive” and spoke of “mutual understanding” regarding the issues discussed. He noted that the two sides reviewed the situation in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict between IsraelUnited States and Iran .
“This war has had many repercussions and collateral losses, both economic and in human lives, as well as for the broader instability that has been created in the Middle East,” the Cypriot Minister said.
He added that the two sides also share common positions regarding the war between Russia and Ukraine, noting that “a solution must finally be found” after almost five years of war between Russia and Ukraine.
Referring to bilateral relations between Cyprus and the United Kingdom, the Minister said they are generally positive, despite occasional disagreements.
He noted that particular reference was also made to the status of the British bases in Cyprus, with discussions focusing on the need for additional security measures to protect citizens living in surrounding areas whenever regional crises arise. “This is a permanent concern for us when difficult situations emerge in the fluid region of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East,” he said.
Finally, the two Ministers discussed prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation in the defence industry, with Palmas stating that there is scope for cooperation, exchange of ideas and the development of innovative products.
(Source: CNA)
