It was reported that Southern Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas met with British Defence Minister John Healey the day before, Kibris Postasi reported.
Greek Cypriot daily ‘Phileleftheros’ wrote that Healey said during the meeting that Southern Cyprus plays an important and central role for many countries and that the two countries will sign a defence cooperation* programme in London in November.
The newspaper noted that Healey visited Southern Cyprus for the second time since taking office and that the aim of the visit was to strengthen bilateral relations.
The report also stated that Healey met with Lieutenant General Yeorgios Cicikostas, Commander of the Greek Cypriot National Guard Army (RMMO), within the framework of his contacts in Southern Cyprus.
*This meeting between Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas and British Defence Minister John Healey highlights the ongoing military collaboration between the UK and Cyprus. The emphasis on a defence cooperation programme, set to be signed in November, suggests a deepening of strategic ties, particularly given Healey’s remarks about the significance of Southern Cyprus to various countries.
Healey’s second visit to Southern Cyprus as Defence Minister underlines the UK’s interest in maintaining and enhancing its influence in the region, which has historically been important for military operations and geopolitical stability. The meetings with military leaders, such as Lieutenant General Yeorgios Cicikostas, indicate a focus on military readiness and coordination.
On September 30, Anadolu Agency reported that hundreds of Greek Cypriots protested against the role British bases have played in Israel’s ongoing attacks on the Gaza strip, according to local media.
The protests at the British base reflect local concerns about military presence and possibly wider apprehensions regarding UK military operations in the area. Such demonstrations can be indicative of tensions surrounding the legacy of British colonialism and the ongoing dynamics of military and political power in Cyprus. [LGC News Ed.]