Cyprus government seeks funding for new 595,000 euro armored vehicle

The Cypriot Ministry of Finance has requested that Parliament release 595,000 euros for the purchase of a new armored presidential limousine. The decision to procure the vehicle was made by the Council of Ministers on July 16, 2026, and the request is set to be reviewed by the parliamentary Finance Committee on Monday. Unlike previous tenders, the state opted for direct negotiations with a local car dealership.

The procurement is justified by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department as a technical necessity based on the condition of current vehicles used by the President and visiting dignitaries. The specific technical and security specifications of the car remain confidential to protect safety standards. The new vehicle is expected to take up to 12 months to manufacture and deliver once approved.

President Nikos Christodoulides publicly stated that he was unaware of the procurement process until media reports surfaced on September 5. He condemned the leak of the classified letter, characterizing it as a deliberate move by Parliament to damage his reputation. While the President claimed he had no prior knowledge, reports confirm the decision originated from the Cabinet he chairs.