AKEL reiterates its long-standing and steadfast position in favour of the abolition of the British bases
20 March 2026, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia
In the Conclusions of its recent Session, the European Council includes a reference acknowledging Cyprus’ intention to begin discussions with the United Kingdom regarding the British bases in Cyprus and declares its readiness to provide assistance where necessary. The President of the Republic himself had also made similar statements. Given that the subject matter and the intended objective of these discussions have not been clarified, AKEL will take a comprehensive and responsible position after receiving the relevant briefing at the upcoming meeting of the National Council.
Grasping this opportunity, we reiterate AKEL’s long-standing and unwavering position, which since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus has been and is expressed in practice through the organisation of marches, events, and many other means: that the British bases must be abolished and Cyprus must be demilitarized. These bases have repeatedly been used as an aggressive launching pad against neighbouring peoples, indeed in several cases even in violation of the Treaty of Establishment itself—a fact that, as has also been demonstrated just recently, endangers the security of our state and people.
On such a serious and complex issue, AKEL declares that it is willing and is fully prepared to contribute to this discussion so that the difficult struggle to rid ourselves of the foreign bases will be successful.
