**Defence Minister Welcomes New Conscripts, Assures Families of Dignity and Respect**
Athalassa, Cyprus – Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas officially welcomed the new conscripts for the 2026 intake on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of dignity and respect in the military service experience. His remarks came during a visit to the Christos Samaras military camp, where the enlistment process is currently underway.
Palmas noted that this moment marks a significant milestone not only for the recruits but also for their families, the Defence Ministry, and the Cyprus National Guard. He described the National Guard as the new family that the recruits would join for the next 14 months, highlighting the honour of serving their "half-occupied homeland."
During his address, Palmas outlined the structure of the training program, which he characterized as methodical and intensive. He assured families that every conscript would be treated with the utmost respect, stating, “Respect for the personality and dignity of every individual is non-negotiable and guaranteed.” He expressed confidence in the training officers and non-commissioned officers, affirming that they are well-prepared to guide the new recruits through their military journey.
In his comments, the minister acknowledged the evolving nature of military service, noting that the Defence Ministry and the National Guard are continuously adapting their training methods to meet modern challenges. He encouraged the new conscripts to take pride in their service, reminding them that some of their peers may not have the opportunity to fulfill military obligations due to health issues.
“You have already completed an important chapter of your lives by graduating from school. Today, a new chapter begins, your service to your country,” Palmas stated. He urged the recruits to maintain their health and approach their training with a sense of responsibility, wishing them success in their military service.
Palmas was also briefed on the enlistment process, which includes measures designed to ensure a smooth transition for the new recruits. In a post on social media platform X, he commended the professionalism of the personnel overseeing the enlistment and expressed his best wishes for the recruits’ upcoming service, describing military duty as “a supreme obligation to the homeland.”
As the enlistment process continues, the Defence Ministry remains focused on fostering an environment that respects the dignity of all conscripts while preparing them for the responsibilities of military service.