The Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus participated in the international defence and technology conference “DEFEA 2026”, held in Athens, one of the most important defence and security events in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region. The conference brought together political leaders, senior military officials, defence industry representatives, and international organisations to discuss current security challenges, defence cooperation, innovation, and the future of European defence capabilities.

The event was attended by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, who underlined in his address the strategic importance of DEFEA as a platform that promotes meaningful cooperation and dialogue in the defence sector. President Christodoulides also referred to the continuous development of Cyprus’ defence industrial ecosystem and the country’s efforts to strengthen its position within the evolving European security architecture.

The National Guard General Staff was represented by the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou, reaffirming Cyprus’ commitment to maintaining a strong presence in international defence initiatives and strategic partnerships. The conference also featured speeches by the Minister of National Defence of the Hellenic Republic, Nikos Dendias, European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius, and NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska, highlighting the growing importance of European and transatlantic cooperation in addressing modern security threats.

During his presentation, Dr. Panagiotis Hadjipavlis, Director of Armaments and Defence Capabilities Development at the Ministry of Defence of Cyprus, emphasized the complex geopolitical challenges currently affecting Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. He stressed the need for a holistic approach to strengthening European defence through innovation, technological development, industrial cooperation, and rapid adaptation to the changing security environment. Dr. Hadjipavlis also highlighted the importance of investing in advanced technologies and reinforcing collaboration between governments, armed forces, research institutions, and defence industries.

Cyprus’ participation in DEFEA 2026 reflects the country’s broader strategy to actively engage in international defence developments while promoting cooperation with allied and friendly nations. The Ministry of Defence continues to focus on supporting the growth of the domestic defence industry and enhancing the integration of Cypriot companies into European defence programmes and international supply chains.

At the same time, the conference offered Cyprus an important opportunity to showcase its expanding defence and technology sector and to strengthen contacts with international defence companies and organisations. The Republic of Cyprus has increasingly positioned itself as a regional partner capable of contributing to security, innovation, and defence cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean and Europe.

The participation of the Ministry of Defence and the National Guard in DEFEA 2026 further demonstrates Cyprus’ commitment to strengthening defence diplomacy, supporting technological innovation, and enhancing the operational capabilities of its armed forces in an increasingly demanding and unpredictable security environment.