We will strengthen the deterrent power of National Guard, Defence Minister says

As long as the illegal Turkish occupation persists, we will continue to strengthen the deterrent power of the National Guard,” Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas underlined on Tuesday, in remarks following the military parade commemorating October 1st, Cyprus’s Independence Day.

On his part, representing the Greek Government, Greece’s Deputy Minister of National Defence, Yiannis Kefalogiannis, emphasised that the withdrawal of the illegal Turkish occupation forces and the achievement of a just and viable solution to the Cyprus issue are of utmost priority for both Greece and Cyprus.

In remarks at the end of the parade, Palmas said that today we honour the memory and determination of all those who have fought over time for freedom, democracy, and defending the territorial integrity of Cyprus.

“This year marks 64 years since the establishment of the independent Cypriot state, 64 years of continuous struggle to maintain security and achieve progress and prosperity for our homeland and our people,” the Minister
continued, adding that “with pride and emotion, we observed today the high morale and the fighting spirit of the participants”.

‘We send a clear message that as long as the illegal Turkish occupation exists, we will continue to invest in our defence, enhancing the operational capabilities and the deterrent power of the National Guard,’ the Minister underlined.

In his remarks, Kefalogiannis said that today “we honour the 64th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus, adding that “the sacrifice of those who fell for the freedom of the nation is an important legacy, which serves as a moral compass for the completion of the sacred struggle of Cyprus”.

‘The withdrawal of the illegal Turkish occupation forces and the achievement of a just and viable solution to the Cyprus issue are of utmost priority for both Greece and Cyprus’, he reiterated, adding that such a solution can only be based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with a single sovereignty, single citizenship, and single international
personality, always in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

‘Greece and Cyprus share the same value system. They are pillars of peace, security, and stability in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region and will continue with this shared purpose,” he added.

Source: Cyprus News Agency