Nicosia, Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides pledged to continue strengthening Cyprus’ defence capabilities during the swearing-in ceremony for the 2026 National Guard intake on Friday. He said the country must remain prepared amid the continuing Turkish occupation and an increasingly complex regional security environment.
National Guard intake
Speaking at Tassos Papadopoulos-Eleftheria Stadium, Christodoulides congratulated the recruits on joining the armed forces and taking on what he described as the mission of defending the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of the Republic of Cyprus.
He noted that the recruits were beginning their military service during annual commemorations of the 1974 coup and the Turkish invasion. He said they were called upon to honour those who fought in defence of the country.
“With today’s oath, you officially undertake the responsibility to honour that legacy,” Christodoulides said, urging the recruits to serve with commitment, discipline and respect for previous generations.
Modernisation plans
The president said the continued presence of Turkish troops in the island’s occupied north, together with instability in the wider region, made strengthening the National Guard’s capabilities an essential priority.
He said Cyprus was proceeding with the substantial modernisation of its armed forces, with the aim of developing the National Guard into a modern, flexible and credible force able to respond to defence, security and humanitarian challenges.
Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus’ participation in the European Union’s SAFE defence financing programme, saying the government was using the mechanism to strengthen key military capabilities and promote the involvement of the domestic defence industry in European procurement projects.
He also referred to plans to modernise naval and air force infrastructure as part of the government’s wider strategy to strengthen Cyprus’ defence posture.
Personnel investment
Christodoulides said the government was continuing to invest in National Guard personnel through improved training, career development and measures intended to address long-standing issues affecting military staff.
He also paid tribute to previous generations of conscripts, particularly those who remained at their posts during the Turkish invasion of 1974 despite being close to completing their military service.
