Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said on Monday there have been no discussions on permanently stationing Greek F-16 fighter jets or naval assets in the country.
Speaking on the sidelines of an event in Nicosia, Palmas said Greek F-16s and the frigate Elli remain deployed in Cyprus temporarily following heightened tensions in the region earlier this year, but stressed this was not a long-term arrangement.
“There has been no discussion on either their temporary or permanent presence,” he said, adding that any future reassessment would be addressed at the appropriate time.
Palmas also said a recently signed Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) with France does not provide for the permanent stationing of French troops in Cyprus, dismissing recent reports suggesting otherwise.
He said the agreement was aimed at facilitating cooperation between the two countries, including joint exercises, training and information exchange, and could allow French forces to remain in Cyprus for limited periods for specific missions such as evacuations or humanitarian operations.
The minister stressed that the role of any French presence would not be comparable to that of the Hellenic Force in Cyprus (ELDYK) stationed in Cyprus which “provides protection and security to the Republic of Cyprus”.
Palmas said defence ties with Greece remained at a high level, adding that Nicosia was grateful for support provided by Athens and other partners during a regional security crisis in March.
During that period, several countries, including Greece and France, deployed military assets to the region after a drone strike caused minor damage at facilities in the British bases in Akrotiri.
Separately, Palmas said Cyprus aimed to strengthen its defence capabilities and domestic defence industry through participation in the European Union’s SAFE financial instrument, including through closer cooperation with European partners such as France.
He also said recent contacts with Brazil’s deputy defence minister, held on the sidelines of a defence exhibition in Paris, were part of efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation.
