Defence Minister Michalis Giorgallas said his ministry continues its efforts to strengthen defence and security, as well as to achieve conditions for the development of the Cypriot defence industry in the production of technology products. Addressing a conference on Research and Innovation in the defence sector, he said that these actions aim to connect the efforts to enhance research, development, and innovation activities with the real economy, as well as to strengthen cooperation between academic institutions, businesses, and relevant authorities, both at the national and European level. Cyprus, he said, due to its geographical position in a region characterized by geopolitical fluidity and instability, faces particular challenges regarding security issues. In this context, he added, the defence policy of the Ministry of Defence primarily aims at strengthening the defence capabilities of the National Guard but also at deepening existing and establishing new partnerships with countries that share the same geopolitical concerns as Cyprus. In a security environment described by rapid changes, the Ministry of Defence is called upon to respond by developing the military capabilities of the Republic of Cyprus, said Giorgallas, noting that "speed and effectiveness are associated with technological advancements, which serve as a reference point in the process of designing and implementing major efforts in defence research, development, and innovation." This technological progress should, on the one hand, be supported by national technological capabilities, which make it possible to support the National Guard with specific and immediate technological solutions. On the other hand, he noted, it should contribute to the development of a capable Cypriot ecosystem that can contribute to the strengthening of the European defense market. "We want Cypriot defence production companies to become partners in the European market or associates or collaborators of international major military equipment and materials companies," the Defence Minister added.
Source: Cyprus News Agency