Bolstering Defense Ties: An Overview of the Cyprus-Jordan Defence Cooperation

Bolstering Defense Ties: An Overview of the Cyprus-Jordan Defence Cooperation

The Defence Minister of Cyprus, Michalis Giorgallas, embarked on a three-day visit to Jordan from September 18 to 20. The purpose was to discuss the bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries and identify ways to enhance and intensify this relationship. This trip was part of routine bilateral consultations on defence and security issues with regional states, following the visit of the President of the Republic to Amman in August.

During a meeting with the Chief of the Jordanian Armed Forces, General Youssef Al Hunaity, the two officials reviewed the current state of the Cyprus-Jordan defence cooperation. They discussed ways to strengthen this relationship further, which could involve conducting joint exercises involving special forces and aviation in both Jordan and Cyprus.

Extending Gratitude and Discussing Bilateral Relations

In addition to his meeting with General Al Hunaity, Minister Giorgallas also met with the Jordanian Prime Minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh. They discussed bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries. The Minister extended his appreciation to Mr. Al-Khasawneh for the swift response and assistance that Jordan provided by sending aerial firefighting resources to help combat recent wildfires in Cyprus.

The Mutual Agreement for Stronger Cooperation

Both parties acknowledged the need to further strengthen the already good relations and military cooperation that has developed between Cyprus and Jordan over the past years. This agreement denotes the shared commitment of the two nations to ensure regional stability and security.

During his visit, Minister Giorgallas also met with the Archbishop of Kyriakoupolis, Christoforos. They discussed ways of enhancing the pastoral work of the Orthodox Church in Jordan, demonstrating the intertwining of spiritual and political ties between the two countries.

Exploring Training Opportunities at KASOTC

The Minister also visited the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Centre (KASOTC), where he was briefed on and toured the training facilities. He discussed the centre’s cooperation with the National Guard to provide training for its personnel, suggesting potential for further training collaborations.