Cyprus is getting ready to join Nato, if and when Turkey withdraws its objections, and to this end the country is discussing with the United States how it can take any opportunities offered, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Thursday.
Christodoulides said Cyprus was in advanced deliberations with the US over the airbase and with the EU over the naval base.
“Soon you will hear even more very important developments concerning the defence and security sector – and not only – that will enhance the deterrent power of the Republic of Cyprus,” he added.
Speaking on arrival at SkillsCyprus 2024 event in Nicosia, Christodoulides was asked to give a clear answer as to whether it was planning to apply for Nato membership. He said he was being “crystal clear”.
“The fact that the Republic of Cyprus cannot be a Nato member due to Turkey’s objections excludes the National Guard from many opportunities, either upgrading or acquiring military equipment,” he said.
He added that “in order for the National Guard not to miss out on these opportunities, we are discussing with the US – and I am pleased for the positive response – on three levels offered in the capacity of a Nato member state, as to how the Republic of Cyprus could utilise these opportunities, so that when everything is in place, the Republic of Cyprus can become a Nato member.”
Christodoulides said it was important to strengthen the National Guard and “that is why we are utilising every opportunity, both in the direction of the US and Nato, and the EU.”
“At the same time, we have a comparative advantage that is summed up in our geographical position, in a region of particular geostrategic importance,” he added.
Asked when the time would be right to apply for Nato membership, Christodoulides said “the less we say, the closer we are”.
Referring to SkillsCyprus 2024 competition, Christodoulides said proper skillsets increased a country’s competitiveness, which was why the government was turning its focus from covering educational material to helping children develop their skills and critical thinking.
This, he added, would address brain drain, offer more opportunities to young people and enhance the economy’s competitiveness.
