Sovereign Base Areas
Sovereign Base Areas
Sovereign Base Areas
The term Sovereign Base Areas refers to two military bases located on the island of Cyprus. These areas are under the control of the United Kingdom and not the Republic of Cyprus.
Location and Size
The Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) are Akrotiri and Dhekelia. Akrotiri is located in the south, near the city of Limassol. Dhekelia is situated in the southeast, close to Larnaca. Together, they cover about 254 square kilometers.
Historical Background
The SBAs were established in 1960 when Cyprus gained independence from British rule. The United Kingdom retained these areas for strategic military purposes. They serve as important locations for British and NATO operations in the region.
Legal Status
The Sovereign Base Areas are unique because they are British territories on foreign soil. They are governed by the Sovereign Base Areas Administration, which operates independently of the Cypriot government. However, the local Cypriot population can live and work in these areas.
Economic and Social Impact
The SBAs have a significant impact on the local economy. Many Cypriots work on the bases, and local businesses benefit from the presence of military personnel. Additionally, the SBAs contribute to the local infrastructure, including roads and schools.
Visiting the Sovereign Base Areas
While the SBAs are primarily military zones, some areas are accessible to the public. For example, the beaches in Akrotiri are popular with locals and tourists. However, visitors should be aware of the security restrictions and respect the rules set by the military authorities.
Blog Posts with the term: Sovereign Base Areas
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