Cyprus and France implement defence pact

A military cooperation deal between Cyprus and France came into effect on 1 August.

The Cyprus-France Defence Cooperation Agreement, signed in April 2017, covers enhanced cooperation on energy and maritime security, especially with regard to offshore hydrocarbon drilling areas in the Eastern Mediterranean.

French energy company Total holds a licence from the Cypriot government to undertake exploratory drilling in seven areas to the south of the island.

In addition, the agreement encompasses early warning and crisis management, plus counter-extremism and anti-piracy operations.

France expects to play a greater role in Cypriot defence equipment and technology procurement, as well as joint military training and search and rescue exercises.

The agreement could also give the French Navy the right to base vessels in Limassol.

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