LETYMPIOTIS - THE OCCUPIED TERRITORIES MAY BE THE MOST MILITARIZED PLACE IN THE WORLD - THE GOAL IS TO INCREASE COVERAGE IN SHELTERS TO 70%- Filenews 10/3
The Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letympiotis, in a statement to the Front Page, pointed out that the current crisis in the region has highlighted the value of the strategic partnerships of the Republic of Cyprus. According to Mr. Letympiotis, Greece and the rest of Cyprus' European partners are on alert, offering practical support and proving that the relations that have been built in recent years are not just theoretical, but operate in real conditions of crisis.
Referring to the unprecedented mobilization of countries in favour of Cyprus, the Government Spokesman agreed that, for the first time, European solidarity appears dynamically in practice. "Many of us wish we didn't have to see this, but, unfortunately, we are now seeing it in practice," he said.
According to Mr. Letympiotis, the strategic partnerships that Cyprus has developed are not limited to diplomatic documents, but are incorporated into actions and relations that are put into practice. He made special reference to the simultaneous presence of the Greek Prime Minister and the French President in Cyprus, stressing that this event sent a strong political message.
According to the Government Spokesman, their presence in Cyprus is important, as it shows Europe's practical support for Cyprus, in the midst of the crisis. "Europe is Cyprus and Cyprus is Europe," he noted, referring to the change in Cypriot society's social perception of European solidarity, which is now becoming more apparent.
Regarding security measures and operational needs, Mr. Letympiotis noted that the strategic partnerships with France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands prove the high operational readiness of Cyprus, which is now directly coordinated with its partners.
Regarding the French President's reports of attacks against Cyprus with drones and missiles, Mr. Letympiotis clarified that "there is no such thing. It's what we've said from the first moment."
Answering questions about the situation in the occupied territories, he said that Turkey's military presence in Cyprus is nothing new and for 52 years the occupied territories of Cyprus have been "perhaps the most militarized place in the world".
In relation to the meeting of the leaders of Greece and France, he clarified that the issue of Turkey was not the subject of discussion, but focused on preventive measures to strengthen the security of Cyprus in the region.
Regarding the activation of the EU Treaty article, Mr. Letympiotis said that the conditions do not exist for such a thing, however practical solidarity is already evident and works effectively.
Regarding the shelters, he admitted that the adequacy of shelters is limited and the Government is working to increase their number and upgrade the infrastructure. He also clarified that many shelters are privately owned and their condition depends on their availability and good maintenance.
Finally, referring to international practices, he underlined that no country in the world has 100% full coverage in shelters, with the possible exception of Israel, and that the goal of 70% occupancy in shelters is considered internationally acceptable.
