safe programme — safe programme — Turkey and South Korea will miss the 30 November deadline for submitting proposals under the European Union’s SAFE defence programme, as confirmed by the European Commission on Thursday.
- Given the ongoing Turkish occupation and Cyprus's strategic position within a volatile region, the government's focus on strengthening defence capabilities is seen as crucial for national security.
In a concurrent development, Cyprus has approved a significant €1.2 billion in defence equipment purchases, which mandates a 15% participation from local companies. This decision, announced by President Nikos Christodoulides during a ceremony at the “Stelios Mavromatis” military camp in Stavrovouni, marks a strategic move to bolster the Republic of Cyprus’s military capabilities.
Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier stated that both Turkey and South Korea had submitted formal requests to participate but will not meet the imminent deadline. “I can confirm – and I’m not taking a risk by saying this – that for these two countries we will not meet Sunday’s deadline. It is, of course, too late,” he said.
The Cabinet’s approval of Cyprus’s defence spending includes provisions for at least 15% involvement from Cypriot companies in contracts with EU member states. This measure aims to strengthen the local defence industry, which President Christodoulides described as “very promising.” He added that the government is also in advanced talks with the United States for potential participation in US defence programmes, signalling a broader commitment to enhancing national security.
As part of these efforts, Cyprus’s defence ministry is also upgrading critical military infrastructure, with significant improvements planned for the “Andreas Papandreou” air base in Paphos and the “Evangelos Florakis” naval base at Mari.
Regnier reminded EU member states that the deadline for submitting national plans under the SAFE mechanism was fast approaching. As of Friday, no proposals had been received from Turkey or South Korea. “On Monday there may be an update on where we stand,” he noted, indicating that the plans should be “broadly outlined but sufficiently detailed for coordination” between the Commission and member states.
While Turkey and South Korea navigate their applications, the United Kingdom and Canada are also undergoing evaluation by the EU Council, with ongoing negotiations aimed at reaching agreements prior to the deadline. Regnier clarified that even without a completed agreement, the UK can still participate in up to 35% of SAFE procurement.
President Christodoulides underscored the importance of enhancing the Republic of Cyprus’s deterrence capability, emphasising the need for more than just words. He pointed out the significance of human resources and the government’s commitment to developing a robust domestic defence industry ecosystem through collaboration with universities, research centres, and private enterprises.
Given the ongoing Turkish occupation and Cyprus’s strategic position within a volatile region, the government’s focus on strengthening defence capabilities is seen as crucial for national security.
