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Cyprus is moving ahead with plans to create a new Coast Guard force, Justice and Public Order Minister Costas Fitiris announced on Monday.
Speaking at a press briefing in Nicosia, Fitiris said the new service will operate independently from the Police and will be responsible for safeguarding Cyprus’ maritime territory, from the shoreline all the way to the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to the Minister, the Coast Guard will be built around two main components: a maritime unit and a helicopter squadron. It will also work closely with other state bodies already active at sea, including the Ports Authority, which operates a monitoring system, as well as vessels belonging to the Fisheries Department under the Ministry of Agriculture.
Fitiris said the plan is intended to streamline responsibilities currently spread across multiple agencies, reducing costs while improving coordination and response times. He added that the proposal will be presented to the Cabinet for approval.
Alongside the Coast Guard announcement, Fitiris also revealed that Cyprus will establish a new Critical Infrastructure Protection Unit. This unit will focus on securing key facilities such as airports, fiber optic installations, and the country’s energy center.
