The Greek Cypriot Administration (GCA) continues its military and security activities conducted with foreign countries in the Eastern Mediterranean. GCA and Egyptian military personnel carried out joint training at the CYCLOPS Land, Open Seas, and Port Security Training Center, which was established in Larnaca with US funding. The training was attended by personnel from the Egyptian Navy and Border Guard Forces, as well as members of the Greek Cypriot naval forces and port police. The programs covered intervention in maritime vessels, security checks, and joint operational methods.
Vessel boarding training at the US-backed center
The training focused on operations known in military terminology as VBSS—visit, board, search, and seizure. Personnel were also trained on response methods against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. According to the statement by Greek Cypriot authorities, one of the programs was attended by 8 Egyptian border guards and 8 Greek Cypriot port police officers.
Center became operational in April 2022
It was stated that the CYCLOPS center, where the training took place, was established within the scope of an agreement signed between the GCA and the US in 2020, and that its construction and technical equipment were financed by the US Department of State. The center, which became operational in April 2022, is operated by the GCA Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Military cooperation agreements between GCA and Egypt
In the strategic partnership declaration published by the GCA and Egypt on April 24, 2026, it was decided to develop relations between the armed forces of the two sides, cooperate in the field of defense industry, and establish a joint military committee. The declaration also noted that an agreement had been reached to continue joint military exercises in land, air, and maritime domains.
Strategic partnership statement from the Greek Cypriot administration
The closing ceremony of the training was attended by GCA Minister of Justice and Public Order Costas Fytiris, Commander of the Egyptian Border Guard Forces Major General Osama Dawoud, and Egyptian diplomatic officials. In his speech at the ceremony, Fytiris stated that the GCA is determined to continue its strategic cooperation with Egypt, particularly in the field of maritime security.
News Source: 12punto
