President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Tuesday that Cyprus and Greece will confront the current regional challenges together, following a meeting at the Presidential Palace with Greece’s Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias. The meeting took place in the presence of Cyprus Minister of Defence Vasilis Palmas and Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, General Dimitrios Choupis.
Meeting at the Presidential Palace
According to a statement issued by the Presidency, President Christodoulides publicly thanked the Prime Minister of Greece and Mr Dendias for their immediate response to Cyprus’ request at what he described as a difficult moment for the Republic of Cyprus.
He said that Greece’s response was both substantive and symbolic, adding that it paves the way for a broader European Union reaction. The President noted that he had spoken with the President of France and received a positive response, and that he remains in contact with the Chancellor of Germany and the Prime Minister of Italy.
He added that Greece’s stance demonstrates how the European Union should respond.
Statements on joint action
President Christodoulides stated that through their actions, Cyprus and Greece show in practice that they are not part of the problem but part of the solution. He said the two countries will address the current situation jointly, expressing hope that normal conditions will soon prevail in the region.
Despite the many challenges facing the area, he said there are also significant opportunities that can be utilised through cooperation, which both countries have consistently pursued.
Position of the Greek government
For his part, Mr Dendias said he had come to convey to President Christodoulides, to Minister Palmas and to the Cypriot people the support of the Prime Minister of Greece, the Greek Government and the Greek people as a whole.
He described the current period as difficult for the wider region and stated that Greece wishes to declare in the clearest possible terms its intention to provide, within its capabilities and resources, any assistance it can to Cyprus, the Cypriot people and all lawful residents of the Republic of Cyprus.
Mr Dendias added that he would discuss with his Cypriot counterpart the practical aspects of this assistance and examine whether further measures could be taken. He concluded by stating that Greece is fully at Cyprus’ disposal.