The recent signing of the new Cyprus-France Military Agreement and the establishment of the EU Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) form a new framework for further deepening of relations between the two countries, especially in the field of maritime cooperation, said Defense Minister Christoforos Fokaidis.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Fokaidis met today with the French Rear Admiral Charles-Henri du Se, Commander of the French Mediterranean Forces in the presence of the French Ambassador to Cyprus Rene Trocaz.
During the meeting, Mr. Fokaidis thanked France and the French Armed Forces for the continuous upgrade of cooperation, both bilaterally and at European level.
The recent signing in Paris of a new Cyprus-France Military Agreement and the establishment of PESCO form a new framework for further deepening of our relations, said Mr. Fokaidis, with special emphasis on the field of maritime cooperation.
Ensuring maritime and energy security in the Mediterranean, he added, is a matter of strategic importance to the EU, especially in light of new challenges and threats.
YPAM referred to the new role of Cyprus as a security contributor and pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean with cooperation and defense agreements with all countries in the region. He also referred to the active role that Cyprus seeks to play within PESCO, through the provision of infrastructure, at the Naval and Air Base.
During his stay in Cyprus, the French Rear Admiral will visit the Naval Base "Evangelos Florakis", the Search and Rescue Center in Larnaca. He will also visit the French Navy frigate "Jean de Vienne" in the Port of Larnaca.
Source: KYPE
Source: RIK News