Cyprus is in discussions with the United States about three levels of NATO member state opportunities, aiming to position Cyprus for potential future NATO membership, President Christodoulides said.
Speaking to reporters at the 8th National SkillsCyprus 2024 Competition, Christodoulides addressed questions about Cyprus’s NATO aspirations, explaining that Turkey’s objections currently prevent Cyprus from joining NATO, which limits the National Guard’s access to military equipment upgrades.
“We are discussing with the US – and I welcome their positive response – three levels of NATO member state opportunities, so that when conditions are right, the Republic of Cyprus can become a NATO member”, the president said.
He emphasised that strengthening Cyprus’s deterrent capabilities is paramount, noting that the country is pursuing opportunities through both NATO/US channels and EU defence programmes.
Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus’s strategic geographic location as a key advantage. He confirmed that decisions have already been made to upgrade naval and air force bases, with advanced discussions underway with the EU regarding naval facilities and with the US for air force installations.
When asked about the timing of a potential NATO membership application, the president responded that “the less we say about this issue, the closer we are to our goal”.
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