Turkey says it is monitoring military developments in Cyprus

Nicosia, Cyprus. Turkey is closely monitoring military developments in Cyprus, defence ministry spokesman Zeki Akturk said on Friday. He criticised the Republic of Cyprus’ efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and cooperation with other countries.

Turkey raises security concerns

Akturk said what he called the “Greek Cypriot administration in southern Cyprus’ ongoing armament activities” and its military cooperation with third countries could harm the island’s “delicate balance and security environment”. Such steps did not build trust between the sides or contribute to peace and stability, he said.

He also rejected claims that the Republic of Cyprus’ air defence systems posed no direct threat to Turkish Cypriots or the “TRNC”, saying those claims did not justify disregarding Turkish Cypriots’ security, rights and interests.

Akturk said Turkey’s defence ministry was taking necessary precautions and that the Turkish armed forces were continuing training and activities in international waters and airspace in the Mediterranean. He said Turkey, as a guarantor nation, would continue working with the “TRNC” authorities to protect the security, peace and wellbeing of Turkish Cypriots.

Air defence system and regional cooperation

The system Akturk referred to is the Israeli Barak MX surface-to-air missile system. Designed to counter threats including aircraft, helicopters, anti-ship missiles, drones, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and combat jets, it was installed last year and is due to be displayed publicly for the first time at Cyprus’ Independence Day parade next Thursday.

On Wednesday, Cypriot Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas signed a joint statement with his Greek and Egyptian counterparts, Nikos Dendias and Ashraf Salem Zaher. They pledged to develop cooperation and coordination among their armed forces to enhance security and stability in the eastern Mediterranean.

The statement also said their views converged on strengthening common frameworks to protect supply lines, gas fields and offshore energy infrastructure against threats, particularly given recent conditions in the region.