Britain and Cyprus strengthen defence partnership

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon and Cypriot Defence Minister Christoforos Fokaides have signed a Defence Co-operation Programme in the capital Nicosia today, agreeing to closer working.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) the agreement means the ministers will work closely across special forces, counter terrorism, crisis response, intelligence, air defence, hybrid warfare and cyber.

The agreement will also involve improved maritime search and rescue co-operation with Fallon offering Cyprus the chance to display alongside the international community at Royal International Air Tattoo 2017 and reviewed opportunities for naval personnel exchanges.

The visit comes at an important time for Cyprus, following the UN-facilitated talks held in Geneva in January, and as negotiations continue towards a solution to the long-standing Cyprus issue.

Fallon commented: “Britain is stepping up its global role and Cyprus is a key partner in promoting European security and stability.

“We have now committed to strengthen our defence partnership with greater co-operation in areas such as counter terrorism, maritime security, and crisis response."