Press Releases

It is a great pleasure for me and for the National Guard Staff to be invited on board the USS Mount Whitney.

It is also with great pleasure that we receive, once again, in the hospitable ports and facilities of the Republic of Cyprus, sailors as all other colleagues on board, from other branches of the United States (US) Armed Forces.

In particular, the 6^th Fleet, whose Area of Maritime Operations and missions towards advancing security and stability in Europe and Africa coincides with our area of maritime responsibility and national interests.

Undoubtedly, geography is highly interrelated with national policies and strategies. Our region has always been a focal point for conflicts and geostrategic developments. Due to the volatile clashes and the war in the Middle East since October 2023, our region is once again experiencing heightened geopolitical instability, waking up frozen conflicts and wars that increase all existing conventional and asymmetric threats and challenges, whose direct impact goes far beyond regional stability and threaten world peace. Additionally, the discovery of substantial energy reserves in our region has introduced new dynamics, increasing both opportunities and risks.

In this complex, multidimensional and rapidly changing world, the pace of change is faster than ever before, bringing new challenges that compel us to embark and stay aligned with the rapidly shifting environment. October 7, 2023, stands as a pivotal date that reshaped our world, at least our world, positioning Cyprus from the corner to the centre of attention.

Although being a small country with limited resources, the Republic of Cyprus remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting security efforts that uphold international law, maritime conventions, and regional security norms. Throughout past and ongoing crises, we have consistently demonstrated our readiness to act when necessary or upon the request of our friends and partners.

At the same time, we remain focused on utilising our limited resources, capabilities, infrastructure and strategic facilities as efficiently as possible to contribute meaningfully to European and international peace efforts and initiatives, reaffirming our dedication to stability, cooperation, and collective security.

We have consistently demonstrated our readiness to assist in crises whether through hosting humanitarian operations or participating in European Union maritime operations, such as the ASPIDES mission in the Red Sea or in multinational initiatives, like the East Mediterranean Coordinated Military Initiative (QUAD) since 2020. Furthermore, we are playing a vital role in supporting the evacuation operations and acting as a safe hub in the area. In addition, our role in the implementation of the AMALTHEIA Plan is also important, where together with the USA, the European Union and other partners we provide humanitarian aid to those in need.

Dear all,

In today’s dynamic, highly interrelated and rapidly changing security environment there are no boundaries and nobody can go alone, at least, not for very long. We are far stronger and effective when our efforts are joint. Therefore, it is essential that we should all work together and engage genuinely and constructively towards pushing forward international stability and peace.

In this spirit of collaboration, Cyprus remains committed to strengthening its defence partnerships with like-minded allies. Therefore, in the field of defence cooperation, our ties with the United States have grown significantly. The recent signing of the Roadmap for Bilateral Defence Cooperation for 2024-2029, along with initiatives such as the “AMALTHEA” humanitarian operation, reflect our deepening partnership.

Moreover, Cyprus and the US have set several key objectives to further advance collaboration, such as the continuation and strengthening of joint military exercises and training program (IMET), the upgrading of the cooperation between the Cyprus National Guard and the New Jersey National Guard (SPP) and the enhancement of our collaboration in military training. Additionally, the opportunities provided for Cypriot cadets to train at U.S. institutions further solidify our defence ties.

In addition to the above, in January, Cyprus joined the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and the Excess Defence Articles (EDA) programs, as well as Title 10 Security Assistance provisions. These steps undoubtably not only bolster our defence capabilities but also enhance our prospects of becoming a credible pillar of stability and a reliable security partner in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Dear Colleagues,

Before concluding, I would like to take a moment to congratulate the US 6th Fleet on its 75th anniversary. This milestone highlights decades of dedication and commitment to security and stability across Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean. Your presence here reaffirms the strong and enduring relations between our nations and armed forces. It underscores that working together is the best way to confront today’s shared challenges and threats.

In closing, I salute and extend our deepest gratitude to all the servicemen and women on board this ship. Thank you once again for your warm hospitality. I wish you all fair winds and following seas! 

(AS/ΝΖ)