Israel to have privileged status at upgraded airbase in Greek Cypriot administration: Defense chief
Paphos airbase not to support offensive missions, says Vasilis Palmas
By Ahmet Gencturk
ATHENS (AA) - Israel will have a “privileged status” at the Paphos Airbase that will be updated with the help of the US, according to the defense minister of the Greek Cypriot Administration.
Vasilis Palmas said the airbase will not be used for offensive missions and its main task will be to support peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in the region when needed, the Greek newspaper, Real News, reported.
He added that the airbase will be open to “friendly states” such as Jordan, Egypt and Israel, as well as the EU.
“We will use it also for the joint military exercises with the US National Guard elements,” said Palmas.
As for relations with Israel, he pointed to the geographical proximity of Israel.
“Greeks can be our brothers, but Israel is our neighbor. The Israelis are totally next to us. In three minutes, they can fly to Cyprus. From Greece, it would take some time to come here to support,” he said.
Palmas, also noting the Mari Naval Base which the administration also intends to modernize and expand, said it is part of the building defensive shield and efforts to elevate its regional role.
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