Defense and security issues — including the need to strengthen the EU’s mutual‑assistance clause — dominated President Nikos Christodoulides’ meeting with European Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius on Tuesday.
Christodoulides said the Cyprus EU presidency has delivered “positive results” on reinforcing the bloc’s defense posture, particularly regarding Article 42(7) of the EU Treaty. He highlighted the growth of Cyprus’ defense industry, noting increased investment from countries such as India and Israel.
Kubilius praised the work of the Cypriot presidency and the progress achieved so far.
The meeting also addressed upgrades to the Andreas Papandreou air base in Paphos and the Evangelos Florakis naval base at Mari.
On the sidelines of the DEFEA defense‑industry conference, Christodoulides met with Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias. The two discussed the need for greater EU investment in defense amid an unstable regional environment, the president said.
Christodoulides noted that about 30 Cypriot companies operate in the defense sector, with 18 participating in EU defense programs. He said Cyprus’ own experience with occupation underscores the importance of strengthening national and European defense capabilities.
In a separate post on Platform X, Christodoulides called Cyprus’ defense industry “promising” and said his presence at the conference was a politically meaningful act. He said Cyprus, Greece and Europe must actively support stronger defense and deterrence, adding that a united Europe can become autonomous in security and defense.