Cyprus has been lobbying for stronger EU defence capabilities and President Nikos Christodoulides hopes that Thursday’s EU summit in Brussels will lead to concrete decisions.

Speaking on arrival at the extraordinary summit venue, Christodoulides said he was “satisfied with the fact that the EU defence and security, the strengthening of member states’ military capabilities, will be discussed in depth.”

“May I remind that the Republic of Cyprus along with other member states such as Greece and France, has long supported the need for the EU to enhance its deterrent capabilities. I hope today’s discussions will pave the way for concrete decisions,” he said.

The summit was also set to address the ongoing war in Ukraine.

“Ending the war and ensuring respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity are fundamental,” Christodoulides said, adding that the EU has a duty to take a leading role in these efforts.

He also highlighted the importance of EU unity and the participation of all member states in such summits.

“I cannot but note the fact that in such summits, for example, Turkey is invited. Turkey is a country that perpetually violates European sanctions against the Russian Federation. In fact, Turkey is exploiting the European sanctions against Russia to its own benefit and at the same time is invited to summits concerning support for Ukraine,” the president said.

When asked about sanctions, Christodoulides described them as “ineffective” and questioned Turkey’s role in security discussions.

“How can Turkey, a country that illegally occupies European territory, have any role in matters of security and guarantees?” he asked.

On the economy, Christodoulides said Cyprus remains one of the EU’s strongest economies, particularly in relation to public debt.

“Our debt stands at 69 per cent, and we are on track to reach 60 per cent by 2026,” he said.

He also emphasised the potential of Cyprus’ defence industry, which consists of about 30 companies employing young professionals, and reiterated the government’s commitment to its further development.