The involvement of the Republic of Cyprus in the situation that prevails in the Middle East is limited to the humanitarian and peacebuilding aspects, Defence Minister Vassilis Palmas said on Friday, adding that Nicosia is extremely vigilant. 

In statements during the opening ceremony of the National Guard’s munitions assessment room at the “Andreas Nikolaou” Camp in Kalavasos area, in Larnaca district, the Minister stated that “we are in state of absolute vigilance, all the mechanisms are operating with regard to the crisis in Lebanon”.

He added that “we provide services to foreign countries to remove their nationals from Lebanon and I think that once again the geostrategic and geopolitical value of Cyprus is proven. We make sure to respond 100%, so that we can help and serve people who are leaving Lebanon because of the situation.”

Asked whether a second Greek military aircraft would be used to evacuate citizens, the Minister replied that “at the moment  there is no need for a second one, but if and when needed, I am sure that Mr. Dendias (Greek Minister of National Defence) and the Greek government will respond immediately.»

As regards the Police presence in crucial public areas such as ports and airports, the Minister of Defence said that “high security measures are being taken due to the prevailing conditions and the Police are flanked by the National Guard officers “.

Source: Parikiaki.com