I [have] reached the decision on the non-deployment of the missiles in Cyprus and agreed that we negotiate with the Russian Government their possible deployment in Crete.

I feel the need to underline that the sole criterion in reaching this decision was the interest of the Cypriot people and the wider interest of Hellenism.

I accept that my decision deviates from a previous decision on the deployment of the missiles in Cyprus. However, I do not accept that today's decision was the outcome of submission to pressure, threats, and blackmail.

It was merely the outcome of a responsible examination and a realistic assessment of the current conditions, factors, and prospects that directly or indirectly affect the course of our national issue.

I neither reproach nor criticise as being wrong the decision made for the purchase and deployment of the S-300 missiles.

However, I would not be a responsible leader if I obstinately insisted today on the decision made then, knowing that the implementation of that decision would harm the substantial and lasting interests of Cyprus and Greece.

I respect the views that are contrary to my decision. I know I will be the target of acute criticism due to my decision.

However, I [have] never hesitated in adopting a decision that I believed served the interests of the country, which I always set above personal and political observations.

I believe in the correctness of the decision I made today and I am completely certain that with this decision our national issue and our national interest are effectively served.