Few Greek journalists follow Cyprus’s political landscape as closely or know it as thoroughly as Stefanos Kasimatis, a columnist for Athens’ “Ta Nea” newspaper, who regularly writes about it backed by solid sources and investigative reporting.
In yesterday’s edition, in his “Pandora” column, he addressed what he considers the non-existent Cypriot defence industry. Given the sensitive nature of the topic (which some might even call controversial), I had an extensive conversation with him yesterday and, with his permission, I’m republishing the relevant excerpt:
“If anything is certain – speaking of our real world – it’s that there is no Cypriot defence industry. This concept has absolutely no basis in reality and refers to something entirely fictional. I don’t think anyone would disagree with this.
However, the absence of a Cypriot defence industry doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have a council to oversee its issues, even if it doesn’t exist! After all, isn’t foresight always desirable in administration? This is precisely what President Nikos Christodoulides (the very embodiment of foresight) demonstrates, as his government has approved the establishment of the Cyprus Defence Industry Council. The same decision also appointed its eight members, ensuring no precious time is wasted in addressing the defence industry’s numerous issues. These range from rare earth suppliers essential for advanced weapons systems to strategic cooperation with Israel, which has achieved something in this sector over the years. Not as much as Cyprus, heaven forbid! Though they have managed something noteworthy in their defence industry, albeit inferior to Cyprus’s.
I should mention here the justified buzz about the recent discussion in Nicosia between Stefanos Kasselakis and MEP Fidias about the future of politics. Put all of this together – Fidias, the Cypriot defence industry, its Council, Stefanos, politics – and you immediately see and feel how deeply Greek our brothers are on the sea-girt great island. “Cyprus is the advanced outpost of Existing Hellenism.”
Post of the Day
“Mr President: Instead of stealing Greenland from Denmark, I have a better idea. In Denmark, everyone has guaranteed healthcare, free education, parents receive paid maternity leave for a year. And workers don’t earn less than $22 per hour,” says Senator Bernie Sanders (pictured), who, regardless of whether one agrees with his ideology or not, is the only one on the other side who can speak to Trump this directly and clearly.
PS: I know the classic counter-argument. I hear it, and I understand. But in politics, as in many other things, there’s always room for “but.” If only we in Greece and Cyprus had such leftist leaders who speak so substantively, without populism and delicate balancing acts. And who wear suits and ties without the complex of worrying about ruining their revolutionary image or being called bourgeois!…
