Cyprus will not become a base for military operations, Minister of Defence Vasilis Palmas stressed on Sunday, noting that this is “clear and unambiguous. Our partners and friends are well aware of this”. He added that Cyprus limits its activities to humanitarian and peacekeeping operations.
In statements to journalists upon his arrival at a memorial event honoring the volunteer soldiers from Anarita who fought during the World War II, held in Anarita village in Paphos district, Palmas said that “the prolonged security crisis naturally creates concern and worry to the citizens of the Republic of Cyprus and beyond”.
He stressed that the Republic of Cyprus is a democratic, peaceful state that confines its actions to the humanitarian and peacekeeping domains, responding to requests for “various evacuations” and “serving nationals of third countries and European states to help them return to their homelands”.
However, he noted that “as long as this situation continues and more players become involved in this war process, concerns will undoubtedly grow”, emphasizing that Cyprus “must remain outside of all this and(we must) limit our role to what we are committed to — the humanitarian and peacekeeping field”.
When asked about any requests submitted by third countries, the Minister of Defence said that various issues arise daily, “mainly concerning the facilitation of citizens of third countries, and we respond with full adequacy and success to these matters”.
Additionally, he said that as long as there are requests from various countries for support — whether for civilian or military purposes — “always within the peacekeeping framework, then we take on the responsibilities that correspond to us”, noting that due to the current circumstances, security issues have remained high on the agenda.
“I will repeat once again that Cyprus will not become a base for military operations. This is clear and unambiguous. Our partners and friends know this very well”, he stressed.
When asked about the recent arrest of a person suspected of espionage and terrorism, he said he would not make any comment, noting that “we have been vigilant” since the start of these regional confrontations and that the Republic of Cyprus is certainly acting for the safety of its citizens.