The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stated during the EU Summit that an “honest discussion with the British government” must be opened regarding the status and the future of the British bases on the island.
He described the bases as a “colonial relic”, but avoided saying whether he wishes their removal, stressing that Cyprus has a “clear approach” and will not negotiate publicly.
“We have more than 10,000 Cypriot citizens within the British bases; we have responsibility for these people and, when the situation in the Middle East is completed, we will proceed to an open and honest discussion with the British government,” he said.
The EU Summit is attended by the heads of state and government of the member states.
The bases in Akrotiri and Dhekelia remained under British sovereignty when Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. The British government uses them as training grounds and as operational deployment points for activities in the region.
EU leaders committed to support Cyprus in this “discussion”, while they “welcomed” member states, such as Greece, that provided it with military assistance.
“The European Council recognizes the intention of Cyprus to start a discussion with the United Kingdom regarding the British bases in Cyprus and is ready to provide assistance, if needed,” they state characteristically.
Sources: Guardian, Καθημερινή
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