Britain and Cyprus are to step up co-operation in maritime security and officer training as part of a new defense program, the British Ministry of Defense (MOD) said Friday.

British Defense Secretary Sir Michael Fallon and Cypriot Defense Minister Christoforos Fokaides signed a defense co-operation program in the capital Nicosia earlier Friday, agreeing to closer working.

The MOD said the two ministers agreed that the key regional partners would now work closely across special forces, counter terrorism, crisis response, intelligence, air defense, hybrid warfare and cyber.

In their statement, the MOD said improved maritime search and rescue co-operation will be a particular focus.

During his visit Fallon offered Cyprus the chance to display alongside the international community at Royal International Air Tattoo 2017, and reviewed opportunities for naval personnel exchanges.

Fallon also announced a continuing commitment to train senior Cypriot officers at the Royal College of Defense Studies in London, together with other training being opened up on the Advanced Command and Staff Course.

An MOD spokesman said: "Sir Michael's visit comes at an important time for Cyprus, following the UN-facilitated talks held in Geneva in January, and as negotiations continue towards a solution to the long-standing Cyprus issue.

"The Defense Secretary confirmed that as a Guarantor Power, the UK will do whatever necessary to secure a settlement and our priority is for both sides to find an agreement allowing each community to feel secure," the spokesman said.

source: Xinhua