President, Nikos Christodoulides, stressed the vital importance of key EU initiatives such as Readiness 2030 and the SAFE Regulation for the security of Europe, during Wednesday’s session of the informal European Council, held in Copenhagen.
According to a written statement by the Director of the President’s Press Office, Victoras Papadopoulos, the President made his remarks during an intervention at the Council’s session on Defence and Security.
President Christodoulides condemned Russia’s recent airspace violations over EU territory, expressing solidarity with the affected member states, stressing that such actions pose a threat to the overall security of the Union.
He underlined that initiatives such as Readiness 2030 and the SAFE Regulation are key tools for achieving the objectives set by the EU in the area of defence and security, Papadopoulos said.
The President further stated that the Cypriot Government is committed to maintaining momentum and achieving further progress in these areas during Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU.
He stressed that states posing a threat to the security of EU member states cannot be allowed to participate in EU security mechanisms.
Referring to the Readiness 2030 initiative, President Christodoulides noted that although the Republic of Cyprus is not a NATO member, it supports efforts for closer cooperation and joint action with NATO under this initiative. However, he emphasised that such cooperation must be based on equal treatment for all EU member states.
He also highlighted that the EU must not shift its focus away from other critical regions, such as the Middle East. Cyprus, he said, will do its utmost to strengthen key strategic actors in the context of the Military Mobility initiative.
President Christodoulides further noted that, under the SAFE Regulation, Cyprus plans to upgrade its naval infrastructure and air bases to enhance the EU’s collective security and readiness.
On the war in Ukraine, the President strongly condemned the continued Russian missile attacks and the targeting of civilians.
He underscored the urgent need for a peaceful resolution that respects the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
President Christodoulides reiterated that Cyprus stands ready to contribute constructively to the development of a comprehensive European security framework, Papadopoulos concluded.