Cyprus featured prominently in talks between Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and his British counterpart John Healey in London, amid growing geopolitical tensions in the region.

According to statements by Dendias, he underlined Greece’s increased interest in the security of the Republic of Cyprus, as well as the corresponding interest of the United Kingdom.

He also briefed Healey on Athens’ initiatives in the field of security, both in relation to Cyprus and within Greece’s obligations to the European Union and Nato, including cooperation with Bulgaria.

Discussions focused on the importance of Greek-British cooperation in addressing modern geopolitical challenges, particularly developments in the eastern Mediterranean linked to the war in Iran.

Dendias said the meeting took place at a time of heightened global instability, which he described as one of the most critical periods since the World War II.

The two sides also discussed bilateral defence cooperation, with emphasis on innovation and new technologies. Efforts are underway to bring the Greek and British defence innovation ecosystems closer together, with the Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation expected to play a key role.

Both ministers also stressed the importance of safeguarding maritime routes, with Greece highlighting its role as a leading maritime power and placing particular emphasis on maintaining freedom of navigation – a position shared by the UK.

The two agreed to remain in close contact to coordinate responses to evolving challenges.

In a post on X, Dendias said the meeting focused on stability and security challenges in the eastern Mediterranean, as well as developments in Iran, the Middle East, Lebanon and Ukraine. He added that discussions also covered strengthening defence cooperation between the Greek and British armed forces, particularly in the fields of innovation and unmanned systems, within the framework of Greece’s Agenda 2030.

Asked whether Greece would send a ship to the Strait of Hormuz, Dendias said there was currently no such prospect. “The situation in the wider region is such that I do not think there is any such possibility at the moment,” he said.

Dendias also met UK national security adviser Jonathan Powell, with discussions focusing on security threats and geopolitical developments in the Middle East, Iran and Ukraine.

The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations in defence, security and innovation, as well as to enhance the exchange of expertise on issues of common interest, the Greek defence ministry said.