National Security Council on alert ‘around the clock’

The National Security Council is coordinating actions around the clock, and President Nikos Christodoulides participates in person whenever necessary, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Thursday.

He added that the president of the Republic had thanked Greece, France, Italy and Spain for their contribution, clarifying that any actions taken by the United Kingdom were carried out on its own initiative.

Briefing reporters at the presidential palace, Letymbiotis said the council was “in constant contact” with all relevant services and ministries.

“At this moment, I am not aware whether the National Security Council will convene again, but coordination continues on a 24-hour basis,” he added.

Letymbiotis also referred to meetings and contacts held by the president and government ministers, as well as the arrival of warships and fighter jets on and around the island.

Asked whether the Republic of Cyprus had thanked the United Kingdom for protecting the island, the spokesman again referred to the support provided by Greece, France, Italy and Spain.

“We contacted our partners in the EU, of course Greece, which responded immediately and which we thank for its substantive and immediate response, as well as France. We also thank Italy, which the president of the Republic thanked for its intention and decision to contribute, and Spain for its contribution,” he said.

“The UK’s decision was taken by the British government within the framework of its own measures and was not the result of coordination. Of course, the necessary coordination will take place,” he added.

Letymbiotis also said that Cyprus remained “in contact with other states as well.”