Cyprus is preparing for NATO membership, contingent on Turkey lifting its objections, President Nikos Christodoulides announced on Thursday.
Discussions with the United States aim to leverage opportunities available to NATO members, particularly for enhancing Cyprus National Guard’s capabilities.
“The fact that the Republic of Cyprus cannot be a NATO member due to Turkey’s objections excludes the National Guard from many opportunities,” Christodoulides said, noting ongoing US collaboration on military upgrades and equipment access.
Turkey, a NATO member, condemned the move as “unacceptable,” warning it could destabilise efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue. The Turkish defense ministry emphasised that NATO enlargement decisions require unanimous approval and must consider national security concerns.
Christodoulides revealed plans to strengthen Cyprus’ military deterrence through partnerships with the US, NATO, and the European Union, leveraging the island’s strategic location. He remained noncommittal on a NATO application timeline, stating, “The less we say, the closer we are.”
Source: Cyprus Mail
