Defence agreement signed with Romania

Defence Minister Charalambos Petrides on Tuesday spoke of the impact of the war in Ukraine, at regional and international levels, in the context of the EU’s defence ministers informal meeting held in Prague.

“For his part, Petrides noted the tragic effects of the war both for Ukraine and for the international and regional level, as well as the consequences it brings for global energy and food security,” a ministry announcement said.

“He also stressed the significance of implementing individual aspects of the Strategic Compass, the soonest possible, to enhance the EU’s resilience and security,” it added.

The next steps in filling defence gaps via joint procurement of equipment were also discussed.

Reportedly, Petrides for his part supported the provision of incentives for equipment programmes including European funding for members states.

On the sidelines, Petrides met Romania’s defence minister with whom he signed a defence cooperation agreement. He also visited the Allied Cemetery in Prague where he laid a wreath paying respect at the graves of 17 Cypriot World War II soldiers.