Cyprus Navy is dynamically adapting in order to effectively support the Republic’s new strategic orientation, Defence Minister Vassilis Palmas said Saturday at a celebration that took place at ‘Evangelos Florakis Naval Base on the occasion of Saint Nicholas day, patron saint of sailors.
He said that in a geopolitical environment that is constantly changing, with new challenges for Cyprus’ stability and security, we place particular interest to the operational capacity of the Navy.
He added that the Navy is responding to modern, multi-level requirements and has expanded the scope of its missions.
Palmas went on to say that Cyprus follows a targeted foreign policy with the aim to deepen bilateral relations with neighboring states and important regional actors.
“Through these initiatives Cyprus actively contributes to the promotion of peace, stability and security in the region, while supporting, at the same time, the goals set by the European Union within the framework of the European Neighborhood Policy’, the Minister said.
He also referred to the adoption of modern technologies and advanced systems with the aim to strengthen the Cypriot defence industry.
Palmas also praised the high professionalism of the personnel which he described as the foundation of the strength and dignity of our Armed Forces.
Commander of the Navy, Admiral Minas Solomonides said that Cyprus is still under Turkish occupation and therefore we need to upgrade our army and be ready to defend the independence and sovereign rights of our homeland.
He also said that the geopolitical environment in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region is constantly changing and we must further strengthen our Navy in order for it to become a significant factor of maritime power.