The Republic of Cyprus will allow Russian vessels taking part in the fight against terrorism and piracy to call at its ports, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday after talks with his Cypriot counterpart Nicos Anastasiades, the TASS reported.
The foreign ministers of Russia and Cyprus, Sergey Lavrov and Ioannis Kasoulides, have signed a memorandum on naval cooperation between the two countries' Defense Ministries. The ceremony took place in the presence of the presidents of both countries.
"Our friendly ties aren't aimed against anyone," Putin said. "I don't think it should cause worries anywhere."
Russia has sought permission for its navy ships to use ports around the world to replenish supplies and undergo maintenance, deals that allow Moscow to expand its global military presence.