“The issue of creating a Russian military base is not being discussed. We’re talking about providing the possibilities of using an airbase in Pathos that other countries such as Germany and France use,” the diplomatic source said.
The base is used for refueling, evacuation operations and technical service, the source said.
Russia currently refuels its military ships in the port of Limassol and such cooperation is planned to be expanded, he said.
As part of his February 25 visit, Anastasiades is expected to renew Nicosia's defense agreement with Moscow, as well as provide Russia with additional facilities on Cyprus.
British High Commissioner to Cyprus Ric Todd was quoted by the Cypriot daily Kathimerini as saying that Cyprus' stance toward Russia must fall in line with that of the European Union.
In response, Anastasiadis said Sunday that Cyprus is a sovereign state that makes its own decisions, adding that Nicosia has never interfered in the British government's foreign policy.