In a country that remains under Turkish occupation and is also surrounded by real dangers and potential threats, strengthening the National Guard’s defence capabilities is a top priority, said the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, in his address during the swearing-in ceremony for the new recruits of the 2026 intake at the ‘Tassos Papadopoulos – ELEFTHERIA’ Indoor Stadium in Nicosia.
Addressing the new recruits, the President of the Republic said that at a time when the security environment in the region is becoming increasingly complex, the Republic of Cyprus, a Member State of the European Union in a region of particular geostrategic importance, is moving forward consistently and with determination to substantially upgrade the operational capabilities of the National Guard and to strengthen the country’s military power.
‘Our aim is to transform the National Guard into a modern, flexible and reliable force, fully capable of responding consistently to the challenges of the operational environment in matters of defence and security, as well as in humanitarian missions,’ he emphasised.
He added that, on the basis of this clear political will, the European Union’s SAFE funding instrument is already being utilised to the full to strengthen defence capabilities in critical areas, whilst, within the framework of the same mechanism, the participation of the domestic defence industry in the relevant collaborations being developed is supported and promoted, with the aim of integrating Cypriot entities as fully as possible into the production process of the systems to be procured.
He added that the implementation of the decision to upgrade and modernise the country’s naval and air force infrastructure is also proceeding on the basis of the same rationale.
‘Our outward-looking approach and the multi-faceted initiatives we are undertaking are yielding significant benefits for our country and enhancing the capabilities of the Republic of Cyprus. Strengthening our strategic cooperation with France, the United States and other countries, including in the defence and security sectors, is a prime example of this overall effort and also recognition of our country’s enhanced role,’ he explained.
According to the President of the Republic, a key priority for the Government is the ongoing investment in National Guard personnel, with a focus on areas such as improving training, the professional development of personnel, and addressing long-standing issues affecting the National Guard’s workforce, both men and women.
‘Rest assured that the National Guard will ensure that your service is productive and beneficial, and that it takes place in safe and dignified conditions, as befits a modern army of a European state,’ he concluded.
The address was preceded by the daily order from the Chief of the General Staff of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou, to the National Guardsmen of the 2026 intake.
‘Before our sacred symbols and in the presence of religious, political and military leaders, you took the prescribed oath, by which you declare your loyalty and devotion to the homeland, and your obedience to the Constitution, the laws and the decrees of the state. From today, upon joining the National Guard, you are taking on the most important and solemn duty towards your country: to defend its freedom and independence’, he said.
‘From now on, you are entering a different environment, a new way of life, with rules that require you to adapt quickly. You will not be alone in this endeavour. The commanders and personnel of the units will help you to integrate as smoothly as possible into this great family. I am certain that your parents and relatives who are here today are proud of you and see in you the hope for the future of this country. We assure them that your military service will be a unique and valuable experience that will equip you with valuable skills for your future life,’ he further noted.
CNA/KA/AGK/2026S, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY