Nicosia, Cyprus. Former president Nicos Anastasiades said on Tuesday that discussion over the future of the British bases is premature and should come only after a settlement of the Cyprus problem. He also commented on the crisis involving Iran and Cyprus’ international engagement.
Call for reassessment after a Cyprus settlement
Speaking on Sigma television following French President Emmanuel Macron and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ visit to Cyprus, Anastasiades said any reassessment of the bases should take place only after a political settlement of the island’s division.
He said the issue must determine whether the United Kingdom fulfilled its responsibility to protect civilians living within the areas, stating that “the first responsibility of the British should have been to protect their bases and Cypriot citizens living within these areas.”
Warning against withdrawal calls and reference to legal precedent
Anastasiades warned against calls for the withdrawal of the bases under current conditions, describing the debate as untimely and requiring calm study and consultation.
He said the precedent involving Mauritius and the Chagos Islands could strengthen the republic’s legal arguments regarding British military territories, while also stating that London has historically not supported Cypriot positions. “The British have never favoured our positions,” he said.
2014 agreement and potential for further dialogue
Anastasiades referred to an agreement reached in 2014 with then British Prime Minister David Cameron under which land within the bases would be returned for development, and said dialogue could yield further progress.
Comments on crisis involving Iran and Greece’s role
Turning to the ongoing crisis with Iran, Anastasiades praised President Nikos Christodoulides for mobilising international partners.
He singled out Greece’s role, saying the rapid dispatch of military support helped trigger wider European engagement. “We must be grateful to Greece,” he said, adding that Athens’ reaction encouraged France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands to mobilise.
What steps, if any, do you think should be taken regarding the British bases after a settlement of the Cyprus problem?
