I have just had the privilege of visiting British forces based in Cyprus. I would like to thank everyone who facilitated my action-packed visit which was very informative. It was humbling and inspiring to see the dedicated teamwork going on day and night at Akrotiri to service and refuel jets for their relentless sorties to the Middle East, currently for example providing very necessary reconnaissance and strike support for the Iraqi army as they seek to liberate Mosul from Daesh, a mission which is becoming increasingly complex as the advance is made on the more densely populated areas of the city.
I also visited the British troops who are part of the UN peace-keeping force on Cyprus itself, patrolling the zone between the Greek and Turkish areas, and was briefed by the British High Commissioner on the prospects of there being a settlement any time soon to this 40 year old dispute.