The Republic of Cyprus has offered immediate assistance to an ongoing search and rescue operation off Kyrenia following the capsizing of a vessel carrying 267 people on Sunday, stressing that the protection of human life is its sole priority.
From the outset, the Republic of Cyprus, through the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC), expressed its readiness to assist directly in the operation.
According to information obtained by the Cyprus News Agency, the JRCC contacted the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), asking it to convey to the Turkish Cypriot side that the Republic was prepared, if necessary, to take over the operation using its available air and naval search and rescue assets.
'Ready to provide immediate assistance'
President Nikos Christodoulides also sought to communicate the Republic’s offer through the Greek Cypriot negotiator, asking that contact be established with the Turkish Cypriot leader.
The aim was to make clear that the Republic of Cyprus was ready to provide every possible form of assistance in the rescue operation.
According to the same information, Nicosia’s position in such circumstances is clear: “When human lives are at risk, we contribute with every available means.”
The Republic of Cyprus has the necessary resources and operational capacity and, above all, is ready to provide immediate assistance, the sources said.
The rescue operation for the 267 people aboard the vessel remains ongoing.
Source: CNA
