President Nikos Christodoulides said Cyprus and the United States are holding talks on modernising the Andreas Papandreou Air Base and purchasing US defence equipment.
He also confirmed that United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres had spoken with his Personal Envoy for Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín, as preparations continue for developments during the week of the UN General Assembly that could pave the way for the resumption of negotiations.
The President was responding to journalists’ questions during a visit to Agios Dometios Gymnasium to mark the beginning of the new school year.
Cyprus-US defence cooperation
Asked about Washington’s decision to extend the lifting of the US arms embargo on Cyprus through 2027, Christodoulides said it sent “a clear message about relations between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus, which are being continuously strengthened, particularly in defence and security.”
“Beyond what has been announced by the United States, many other programmes are under way, including programmes concerning the modernisation of the Republic of Cyprus’ infrastructure,” he said.
“I am referring specifically to the Andreas Papandreou Air Base. Talks are also under way with the United States regarding the purchase of defence equipment from the United States,” he added.
Christodoulides also said that, for the first time, Cypriots are studying at US military academies.
“Particularly in defence and security, there is excellent cooperation, which has never before been at such a high level,” he said.
Preparations on the Cyprus issue
Asked whether Guterres and Holguín had spoken by telephone, the President confirmed that the call had taken place.
He said he had received an initial briefing but would not disclose the outcome of their discussion.
“What I can tell you is that preparations are continuing and the negotiators are also meeting today, so that during the week of the General Assembly there may be some results leading to the desired objective, which is an announcement on the resumption of negotiations,” Christodoulides said.
Source: CNA
