Akrotiri, Cyprus. The United Kingdom has informed the Cyprus government of its intention to install a cluster of 32 antennas at RAF Akrotiri, covering a range of up to 340 square kilometres. Cyprus authorities said preparations for negotiations with the United Kingdom are underway.
Municipality objections and monitoring proposal
Akrotiri municipality confirmed on Sunday that base authorities were willing to install three electromagnetic radiation meters and present the results, as well as the environmental study, publicly to allay concerns.
A request has been submitted to the competent committee chaired by Kourion mayor Pantellis Georgiou, who said he is against the installation of the antennas and that the municipality will go to court to stop the project.
Georgiou added that updated epidemiological data from the health ministry had been requested regarding potential risks posed by the installation, and that both the foreign and interior ministry were being kept informed.
Government preparations for negotiations
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis previously said the government is undertaking preparations at all levels for negotiations to take place with the United Kingdom over the future of the British bases.
Letymbiotis added that at the appropriate time and where and when there is something which can be announced, it shall be.
Security and legal considerations
The discussions follow heightened security concerns after the Akrotiri airbase was recently targeted by an Iranian-made drone.
The government has also sought legal advice regarding the treaty of establishment’s position on British sovereignty over Akrotiri and Dhekelia.
Deputy spokesman Yiannis Antoniou said the issue of security is complex and will be the subject of discussion with the British side.
What do you think should be the key priority for Cyprus in talks with the United Kingdom over the antenna installation?