New NG chief assumes duties

LIEUTENANT-general Stylianos Nasis yesterday assumed his duties as the new commander of the National Guard, following the resignation of his predecessor in the wake of the July 11 naval base blast that killed 13 men.

“During these difficult moments, your role has special importance,” President Demetris Christofias said during the confirmation ceremony at the presidential palace. ““We must deal with the crisis our country is facing united, composed and with determination and at the same time send the clear message that the National Guard is in a position to fulfil its duties.”

Nasis, a Greek national, said he knew his role, position and what he must do.

The new National Guard Commander pledged to carry out his task “even at a personal cost. Cyprus’ independence, integrity and dignity would be the beacon of my endeavour,” Nasis said.

He formally took over his duties during a hand-over ceremony at the National Guard HQ in Nicosia.

Nasis replaces Lieutenant-general Petros Tsalikides who resigned, along with defence minister Costas Papacostas, a few hours after the blast at the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari.

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