The National Guard’s mission is so sensitive that any irresponsibility or intervention or public dispute might endanger the discipline and moral of the armed forces, said here Monday President of the Republic Tassos Papadopoulos.
He was speaking during the affirmation ceremony of new Defence Minister Christodoulos Pashiardis, who was appointed on Friday following the death of the late minister Nicos Symeonides on 3 May.
On his part, Pashiardis, former Government Spokesman and Undersecretary to the President said that as long as Turkey continues to occupy Cyprus territories, and be a threat against the island, the strengthening of our defence capabilities and that of the National Guard are not an option but a national obligation and its fulfillment can neither be disregarded nor postponed.
In his speech, President Papadopoulos said the protection of the integrity and freedom of our country which the National Guard has undertaken and serves is an issue which must be placed above persons and any expediency.
He expressed his regret over the death of Symeonides and praised yet again his contribution during his short term in office, noting that the new defence minister is fully aware of the responsibilities and obligations he is undertaking.
“The continued strengthening of the deterrent capability of the National Guard remains a consistent aim and a fundamental governmental pursuitâ€, the President pledged.
“In promoting this aim, we are acting responsibly, seriously and with a programme…The strengthening of our defence capability or in any other possible way the reinforcement of the National Guard, will continue as long as the Turkish occupation remains a threat and as long as a peaceful solution to the Cyprus issue is pendingâ€, the Cypriot President added.
He also praised Greece’s for its support and contribution.
In his speech, Pashiardis said the further strengthening and upgrading of the National Guard is a reality which cannot be evaded and an obligation which cannot be erased.
He pledged to try to fulfill all the responsibilities and effectively respond to them by promoting the government measures to strengthen and make the National Guard technologically and organizationally a flexible and credible force.
