Cyprus Defence Minister Christoforos Fokaides was guest of honour on board the UK submarine HMS Ambush, during an event hosted on Thursday by the British Acting High Commissioner, Lynda Burns, to highlight the strength of the defence and security cooperation between the UK and Cyprus. HMS Ambush is the first of its type to visit Cyprus, a press release issued by the British High Commission here said.
Speaking at the event, Burns said that the visit of HMS Ambush to Cyprus was a visible example of the deepening defence relationship between our two countries.
She added that the UK and Cyprus share a special relationship expressing her satisfaction for hosting Minister Fokaides and members of the Cypriot military and Navy on board HMS Ambush. “It is a clear demonstration of our shared security interests, values and responsibilities in a volatile region where we continue to work together on regional security. The UK welcomes Cyprus` support and contribution to international operations in the region and we look forward to a defence relationship that continues to grow from strength to strength,” she said.
Fokaides said “the relationship between our two countries must constantly continue to improve in the fields of security and defence in order to reflect both the common interests and responsibilities in promoting regional stability in an area tormented by conflicts and humanitarian crises. Cyprus has always considered UK to be a vital partner in our efforts to adequately address these pressing challenges and to work constructively together in mutually beneficial ways.”
Welcoming Fokaides on board, the Commanding Officer of HMS Ambush, Commander Alan Daveney said that HMS Ambush is one of the most capable submarines in the world and represents the future of the Royal Navy submarine service.
CNA/MK/ΜΜ/2015
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY