Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias delivered a powerful message of Greece’s unwavering support for Cyprus from Nicosia, amid Turkish objections to the military parade in which Greek F-16s participated — held to mark the 66th anniversary of the Republic of Cyprus’ independence.
“With the new capabilities we are building within our Armed Forces, we will always stand by your side as brothers, and also within the framework of our shared European family,” the Greek Defense Minister told Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, emphasizing that Greek-Cypriot defense cooperation is now embedded within a broader European and regional network of partnerships.
A message of unity and strength from Nicosia: Nikos Dendias moved and present at Cyprus’ 66th independence anniversary
The minister appeared visibly moved by the reception he received during his visit to Cyprus, describing it as an experience he would never forget and pledging to bring back to Athens the warmth and love he felt. He also conveyed congratulations and greetings on behalf of the Greek government, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and, as he put it, the Greek people — reaffirming Greece’s enduring support for the Republic of Cyprus. For his part, President Nikos Christodoulides expressed his gratitude, saying: “Every time you are with us, and that means a great deal to us. Know that the Cypriot people never forget those who stand by them in deed.”
Shortly after, Minister Dendias noted that the parade showcases “an important historical reality — a historic achievement of Hellenism: the Republic of Cyprus.” He described it as “an independent, democratic, sovereign European state now entering its 64th year of existence,” while stressing that it must never be forgotten that the Republic of Cyprus “has, for more than half a century, been suffering the consequences of invasion and occupation,” adding that “no one has the right to forget this.” He also addressed the issue of deterrence, stating that “freedom, sovereignty, security, and democracy require defensive strength.” Greece, he said, is building this deterrence capability through its “Agenda 2030,” with absolute commitment to International Law and the Law of the Sea.
The Defense Minister placed particular emphasis on Greece’s symbolic presence at the parade, highlighting the Greek fighter jets that flew over the parade grounds as well as the participation of ELDYK (the Greek Forces in Cyprus). “Greece is and will be here. Greece is and will remain close,” he said emphatically. Dendias also spoke warmly about the reception he received from the Greek Cypriot community: “I will not forget the emotion I felt, and I will carry back to Athens this feeling of solidarity, love, and support.”
It is worth noting that the parade featured the Republic of Cyprus’ new Barak MX air defense system, as well as new unmanned systems belonging to the National Guard, while for the first time, foreign military contingents from the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Egypt marched in the parade.
On the Greek Armed Forces side, ELDYK infantry units and motorized vehicles participated — including LEONIDAS armored vehicles, Humvees equipped with KORNET-E anti-tank missiles, and M-106 mortar carrier armored vehicles. A highlight of the parade was a low-altitude flyover by two Greek Air Force F-16 Viper jets. Additionally, as part of the celebrations, the Greek frigate “Nikiforos Fokas” was anchored in the port of Larnaca and open to the public.
While the Republic of Cyprus celebrated its independence, Turkey’s Defense Ministry spokesman insisted that “the ongoing armament activities of the ‘Greek Cypriot administration’ and its military cooperation with third countries” are “negatively affecting the delicate balance and security environment on the island.” He further claimed that “the provocative actions carried out by the ‘Greek Cypriot administration’ and Greece do not contribute to efforts to build mutual confidence on the island — on the contrary, they escalate tensions and undermine the environment of stability.”
Photo: Press and Information Office of the Republic of Cyprus
