Cyprus celebrates 66th independence anniversary with military parade

On October 1, 2026, the Republic of Cyprus celebrated the 66th anniversary of its independence with a major military parade held on Iosif H. Iosif Avenue in Nicosia. The event, attended by President Nikos Christodoulides, featured units from the National Guard, police, fire department, and other civil services. International diplomatic and military presence was notable, with officials from Greece, the United Kingdom, Egypt, France, and the United States observing the procession.

Ahead of the parade, Greek Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias visited Nicosia, where he met with Archbishop Georgios to discuss defense cooperation, including the renovation of the Evelpidon Academy amphitheater. President Christodoulides held talks with Minister Dendias at the Presidential Palace, emphasizing that the government's 2027 budget will prioritize defense spending and equipment upgrades to bolster national deterrence. The event also included the first-ever participation of Greek military vehicles alongside F-16 fighter jets in the parade, signaling deepened cooperation between the two nations.