The stories which follow are from the 1st until 31st of October 2022
1.10.2022 – Democracies versus autocracies at stake, Commission Vice President Šuica tells CNA
Vice President of the European Commission for Democracy and Demography Dubravka Šuica has told CNA that populism was on the rise in Europe, pointing out that democracy in the world and in Europe was in danger. In an interview with Cyprus News Agency, Šuica stressed that nowadays “what’s at stake is democracies versus autocracies.” Asked about the situation in Cyprus, she said that democracy in the world and in Europe is in danger at the moment, something which is not the case in Cyprus.
1.10.2022 – UN to study helping Cyprus with illegal immigration through buffer zone
Interior Minister Nicos Nouris has expressed his satisfaction with the intention of the United Nations, to study the possibility of providing aid and support to Cyprus, in the matter of illegal immigration. Nouris had a meeting on Friday at the United Nations with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, with whom he discussed the immigration issue, the monitoring of those entering the buffer zone dividing the government controlled areas and the Turkish occupied territories of Cyprus and possible ways to solve the problem.
1.10.2022 – Cyprus celebrates the 62nd anniversary of the declaration of the country’s independence
The Republic of Cyprus celebrates the 62nd anniversary since the declaration of its Independence with a military parade in Nicosia. Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades will receive the salute of the parade, in the presence of the country`s political, religious and military leadership. The Greek government will be represented by Minister of National Defence, Nicos Panagiotopoulos, and the head of the Greek Army, General Constantinos Floros.
1.10.2022 – We remain focused on the liberation and reunification of Cyprus, President Anastasiades says
We remain focused on the liberation and reunification of Cyprus, President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, said, on the occasion of the 62nd anniversary since the declaration of the Independence of Cyprus. President Anastasiades wished the Republic of Cyprus a long life in a tweet, adding that “we honour everyone that struggled for our homeland and we remain focused on the liberation and reunification of our land.”
1.10.2022 – President reminds of the proposals he submitted since Crans Montana, for Cyprus solution
President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades has said that many times since the Crans Montana UN-backed talks, he submitted creative proposals for a solution, without taking into consideration the political cost, reminding of the Turkish intransigence that hasn’t allowed for peace talks to resume so far. In a message on the occasion of the Independence Day, the President underlines that in Crans-Montana negotiations, in the summer of 2017, we succeeded in bringing Turkey before its responsibilities for the first time, in order to discuss security and the withdrawal of the Turkish occupying forces, and we succeeded in having the UN Secretary General table a six-point framework, which the Turkish side undermined.
1.10.2022 – Cyprus began diplomatic efforts to tackle fresh Turkish provocations, “we won’t stay idle”, President pledges
The Republic of Cyprus “will not stay idle” as regards the new Turkish provocations and has already began its diplomatic efforts, President Nicos Anastasiades said on Saturday, following the military parade in Nicosia to celebrate the island’s independence day. Speaking to the press he noted that Cyprus will pursue the diplomatic path, contacts with friendly states, with the UN and the EU in order to prevent what we managed to prevent many times during the 62 years of Cyprus independence, when Turkey, in various ways, tried to abolish the Republic of Cyprus the abolition of the Republic of Cyprus, or to impose solutions that would lead the island to turn into Turkey’s protectorate.
1.10.2022 – Cyprus and Greece should be actors of stability in region, Greece’s Defence Minister says
Cyprus and Greece should be actors of stability, security and peace in the region, through the bilateral and trilateral partnerships with neighbouring countries, inspiring a spirit of friendship and collaboration, Greece’s Minister of National Defence Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos has said. Panagiotopoulos was speaking to the press on Saturday after the military parade in Nicosia on the occasion of the 62nd anniversary since the declaration of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus.
1.10.2022 – French Ambassador wishes a dialogue will soon lead to a reunified Cyprus
French Ambassador Salina Grenet-Catalano wishes that a dialogue will soon lead to a reunified Cyprus. She posted a tweet wishing Congratulations to Cyprus Republic on the occasion of its independence. The tweet is both in Greek and Turkish. “Current events demonstrate the importance of cherishing that independence & the principles of our UN charter. Hopefully dialogue will soon bring a reunified #Cyprus”, she posted. Cyprus has been divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion. The latest round of talks, under the UN aegis, to reunite the island under a federal roof, took place in the summer of 2017 in the Swiss resort of Crans Montana but failed to yield results.
1.10.2022 – Moscow hopes long-lasting historic relations with Cyprus will be saved despite harm because of EU sanctions
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlines the long-standing historical relations with Cyprus and hopes that these bilateral relations and the prospect will be saved, despite the serious harm caused following the EU sanctions against Russia. The Ministry issued a press release on the occasion of Cyprus’ independence and it underlines that Russia consistently supported the struggle of the Cypriot people for their independence from British colonial rule and it was among the first to recognize the independence of the Republic of Cyprus.
1.10.2022 – ?linken underlines role of Republic of Cyprus in ensuring prosperity and security in the Eastern Mediterranean region
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken underlined the role the Republic of Cyprus plays in ensuring security and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean region. In a statement issued by the State Department on the occasion of the anniversary of the independence of Cyprus, Blinken says that Republic of Cyprus and its citizens play a key role in ensuring security and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
2.10.2022 – Annual increase of property sales by 18% so far in 2022, Land Registry Director tells CNA
Property sales increased by 18% during the first nine months of 2022, compared to the corresponding period in 2021. Also, the number of sale agreements submitted to the Land Registry Department, increased by 36%, Director of the Department, Elikkos Elia, has told Cyprus News Agency. Elia said that 10,000 sale agreements are submitted annually, as well as the exchange of 16,000-17,000 properties as a gift.
3.10.2022 – Lifting of US arms embargo a vindication for Cyprus, Interior Minister says
The recent lifting of the US arms embargo against Cyprus has vindicated the country which has clearly demonstrated with its policies that Cyprus belongs to the West and does not waver when it comes to our political allies, Interior Minister Nicos Nouris said on Sunday. Nouris was addressing an event for the anniversary of the declaration of Independence of Cyprus, organized by the Federation of Cypriot Organizations of America, in cooperation with PSEKA and the Consulate of Cyprus in New York.
3.10.2022 – Interior Minister Nouris underlines role of overseas Cypriots in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem
The contribution of overseas Cypriots and the Greek Diaspora in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem is more than important, Interior Minister Nicos Nouris, said in remarks after a service at Agios Nikolaos Church in New York during the celebrations to mark the independence of the Republic of Cyprus. He said the Diaspora’s “contribution is the cornerstone of the efforts of all governments to reach a viable solution.”
3.10.2022 – President receives many congratulation messages from foreign leaders and other officials about Independence Day
Cyprus President, Nicos Anastasiades, has received dozens of congratulation messages from foreign leaders and Secretary-Generals of international organisations, on the occasion of the anniversary of Cyprus’ Independence Day. According to a press release issued by the Presidency, among others, Anastasiades received messages from Pope Francis, the UN Secretary – General, the Prime Minister of Greece, the US President, the President of China, the President of France, the President of Germany, the President of Italy, the President of Poland, the President of Russia, the President of Egypt, the King of England Charles, the King of Spain Felipe, the King of Belgium Philippe and other leaders from Europe and other parts of the world.
3.10.2022 – House President and new Ambassador of Libya discuss Cyprus problem and Ukraine
The latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem and the consequences of the war in Ukraine were discussed on Monday, during a meeting between House President, Annita Demetriou, and the new Ambassador of Libya to Cyprus, Quwaydir Abrahim Quwaydir. During the meeting, Demetriou briefed the Ambassador on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem.
3.10.2022 – Cyprus MFA extends condolences for tragic incident at Indonesia soccer stadium
Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its sorrow for the tragic incident at a soccer stadium in Indonesia, in which more than 120 people reportedly lost their lives. “Deeply saddened by the tragic incident at a soccer stadium in Indonesia in which more than 120 people were reportedly killed. Sincere and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and to the Government and people of Indonesia”, the MFA said in a twitter post.
3.10.2022 – Current account deficit increased in Q2 of 2022, while Cyprus’ international investment position deteriorates slightly
Cyprus’ current account deficit increased in the second quarter of 2022, while the international investment position (IIP) showed a slight deterioration, with the net external debt increasing by €1.61 billion. According to provisional data by the Statistics Department of the Central Bank of Cyprus for external statistics (balance of payments, international investment position and external debt) for the second quarter of 2022 (2022 Q2), the current account balance of Cyprus recorded a deterioration, with the deficit increasing from €445.3 million in 2021 Q2, to €1,037.5 million, in 2022 Q2.
3.10.2022 – Cultural sector employment recovered in EU and Cyprus according to Eurostat, more women than men in sector in Cyprus
In 2021, 7.36 million people were employed in the cultural sector in the EU, representing 3.7% of total employment according to data from Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. According to this data, the number of people working in culture in the EU recovered after dipping during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns (7.35 million employees in 2019, 7.14 in 2020).
3.10.2022 – UK Cypriots ask for British support on the anniversary of the Republic’s independence
The UK Cypriot community have made their voice heard in calling upon the British government to support efforts for an end to the ongoing Turkish occupation and the reunification of their motherland. In a picket organised by the Famagusta Association of Great Britain outside Downing Street last Friday, on the occasion of Cyprus’s independence anniversary, the community members reiterated the demand for the occupied town to return to its lawful inhabitants, under the control of the UN as stipulated in relevant Security Council resolutions.
3.10.2022 – Energy reduction and investment in energy efficiency should be accelerated, Cyprus’ FinMin says after Eurogroup
There is a need to accelerate energy consumption reduction and investments in energy efficiency and interconnection, Cyprus’ Finance Minister, Constantinos Petrides, tweeted, regarding the Eurogroup meeting on Monday. Petrides noted that the EU economy has faced many crises in the last 2.5 years.
4.10.2022 – Greece and Cyprus should rally to deal with Turkey’s provocations, Interior Minister says
Greece and Cyprus should rally to deal with Turkey’s provocations, Interior Minister Nicos Nouris has said. Nouris was speaking on the sidelines of the “New Jersey-Eastern Mediterranean Forum”. His participation in the forum together with Deputy Government Spokesperson Niovi Parisinou concludes their visit in New York The forum presented business opportunities offered to those who want to invest in Cyprus, energy issues and the problems in the Eastern Mediterranean area.
4.10.2022 – ?CB Governing Council meeting in Cyprus to begin discussions over “quantitative tightening”
The European Central Bank Governing Council is set to begin discussions on shrinking its balance sheet in its non-monetary policy meeting to be held in the coastal city of Limassol, in Cyprus on Wednesday, hosted by the Governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus Constantinos Herodotou. In the meantime, the Central Bank of Cyprus announced that ECB President Christine Lagarde and Herodotou will have on Tuesday evening a “free and open discussion” with about 100 university students in Nicosia, on Tuesday.
4.10.2022 – Substantial discussions between Cyprus and Qatar on new prospects in bilateral relations
Substantial discussions on new prospects in bilateral relations were examined during the meeting Cyprus Minister of Foreign Affairs Ioannis Kasoulides and Qatar’s Deputy PM & FM, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Doha. In a post on Twitter, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs referred to the ‘warm welcome’ by Qatar’s Deputy PM. The Ministry said Kasoulides and Al-Thani held “substantial discussions” on new prospects in bilateral relations and the “way forward #EU – #QA relations”.
4.10.2022 – Cyprus FM calls on Azerbaijan to immediately release all unarmed Armenian prisoners
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus strongly condemns the executions of unarmed Armenian prisoners by the forces of Azerbaijan and is calling for the immediate release of all prisoners. A Foreign Affairs press release said “we call once again for the immediate release of all Armenian prisoners as well as for a thorough investigation of the executions to ensure perpetrators are held to account”.
4.10.2022 – Nicosia expresses concern over the “MoU” signed by Libya and Turkey
Nicosia has expressed concern and scepticism over the signing of the “MoU” between the government of national unity (GNU) of Libya and Turkey in the hydrocarbons field on the basis of the illegitimate Turkish – Libyan “memorandum” of 2019. According to a press release issued by the Foreign Ministry “the concern stems from the continuously worsening and destabilizing role which Turkey plays in the region, seeking to create tensions, with actions which are contrary to the international law, the Law of the Sea and its specific aspects.”
4.10.2022 – We are pursuing international legality as the only guarantee to secure peace in our region, says Presidential Commissioner
We are pursuing the prevalence of international legality as the only guarantee to secure peace in our region, said Presidential Commissioner Photis Photiou, during a gathering entitled “The Mediterranean a sea of peace and culture – Cyprus among the cultures of the Mediterranean”, held in Rome. Addressing the gathering, in a speech read by Cyprus’ Ambassador to Italy, George Christofides, Photiou said that Cyprus, with its unique geographic position, has developed a mosaic of different cultures that shaped over the time, a distinct cultural identity with a history of 11 thousand years.
4.10.2022 – Minister of Environment discusses the implementation of the European Environmental Agency strategy
Current and future actions by Cyprus and national environmental priorities regarding the implementation of the 2030 Strategy of the European Environmental Agency (EEA), were discussed on Tuesday in a meeting between the Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Costas Kadis, and a delegation of the EEA. As announced, the representatives of the EEA, Luc Bas, Galina Georgieva and Dr Christiana Fotiades, visited Cyprus, a member state of the EEA, which is part of the European Environment Information and Observation Network (EIONET).
4.10.2022 – Cyprus sees 0.3% monthly increase in industrial producer prices, compared to 5% in eurozone, according to Eurostat
In August 2022, industrial producer prices rose by 5% in the euro area and by 4.9% in the EU, compared with July 2022, and by 43.3% in the euro area and by 43.0% in the EU compared with August 2021, according to estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In Cyprus, industrial producer prices in August rose by 0.3% compared to July and by 31.6% compared to last year.
4.10.2022 – Menelaou-Olgun continue to discuss about Technical Committees work and CBMs, while awaiting DiCarlo’s visit
Negotiator of the Greek Cypriot side, Menelaos Menelaou, and Ergün Olgun, the special representative of Turkish Cypriot leader, Ersin Tatar, continue their meetings in Nicosia, after their return from New York, while awaiting a forthcoming visit to Cyprus by the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo. The dates on which DiCarlo will visit the island have not been fixed yet, however, as CNA has learned, she will probably also visit Ankara, Athens and London, for meetings with officials of the three guarantor powers.
4.10.2022 – Economic Policy Uncertainty index for Cyprus reached highest point back in April, according to Economics Research Center
The Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU) index for Cyprus reached its highest point so far in April 2022, after the Russian invasion in Ukraine last February. The second highest EPU level was recorded in April 2020, one month after the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the country, 345.27.
4.10.2022 – The goal is to bring inflation down to 2%, President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, says
Inflation is “undesirably high”, President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, said on Tuesday, noting that the goal was to bring it down to 2%. In Cyprus inflation is 9% which is slightly lower than the eurozone average, she said. Lagarde, who is in Cyprus on the invitation of the Governor of Cyprus’ Central Bank, Constantinos Herodotou, participated in an open dialogue with university students, along with Herodotou.
5.10.2022 – Ninth UNECE Ministerial Conference on the Environment for Europe kicks off in Nicosia
Nicosia hosts on October 5-7 the 9th Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference, starting on Wednsday, entitled “Circular Economy, Sustainable Tourism and Education for Sustainable Development”. The Conference will take place at the Filoxenia Conference Center, in Nicosia. The conference is hosted by the Republic of Cyprus in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and is under the high auspices of the President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades.
5.10.2022 – Ministerial Conference on the Environment is the result of Cypriot government actions and initiatives, Anastasiades says
Cyprus President, Nicos Anastasiades, has said that the Ninth Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference that began on Wednesday in Cyprus is the result of the recognition of the actions and initiatives undertaken by the Cypriot government to tackle one of the most important problems which humanity is called to address. Speaking upon his arrival at Filoxenia Conference Centre, in Nicosia, where the Conference kicked off, Anastasiades said that this is one of the most important events, as it is the first time that it is taking place in Europe and particularly in the Mediterranean region, with the Republic of Cyprus being the hosting country.
5.10.2022 – President Anastasiades says need to implement measures to secure the planet’s sustainability is becoming more urgent
President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades said on Wednesday that the need to take effective decisions and to implement substantial measures and policies to secure the planet’s sustainability is becoming more urgent. Addressing the 9th UNECE Ninth Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference underway in Nicosia, the President said it is a highly important meeting for sustainable environmental development, with its declarations expected to become a point of reference to formulate national policies for the participating countries.
5.10.2022 – KEDIPES reports total cash inflows amounting to €1,45 billion, €800 million cash payments to the state
Cash inflow in state-owned asset manager, KEDIPES amounted to 115.2 million in the second quarter of 2022, down by 0.9% compared with the first quarter of 2022, marking an increase of 20.9% year on year, the company said in a press release. Cumulative gross cash inflow from the management of a portfolio of non-performing loans and real estate owned by the now defunct Cooperative Cyprus Bank since September 2018 amounted to €1.45 billion with cash payments to the state amounting to €230 million in 2022 and €800 million since September 2018.
5.10.2022 – UNFICYP has not received any official notification from Turkish Cypriots as regards their request for an agreement, Siddique tells CNA
The UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) has not received any official notification from the Turkish Cypriots as regards their request for a “status of forces agreement” with them, although it is aware of the request they have made at the UN Headquarters, the force’s spokesperson, Aleem Siddique has told CNA. He was invited to comment on a report by Turkish daily “Hurriyet” according to which, the “foreign minister” of the Turkish Cypriot puppet regime, Tahsin Ertugruloglu told the newspaper that if UNFICYP does not forge an agreement with the pseudostate then the force will have to leave its campuses in the Turkish-occupied areas of the island, and that the puppet regime has given a one-month notice to UNFICYP as regards this issue.
5.10.2022 – Need for international cooperation for environment highlighted in morning session of UNECE Ministerial Conference in Nicosia
The need for international cooperation and coordination for the environment emerges more imperative today than ever before, was the message from the morning proceedings of the 9th UNECE Ministerial Conference which kicked off Monday in Nicosia. After the opening ceremony, addressed among others, by the Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades, two sessions were held, in the presence of the President of the Parliament Annita Demetriou, who presided, the Ministers of Education and Agriculture and other dignitaries participating in the conference.
5.10.2022 – Agreement on EU 8th sanctions package against Russia, includes oil price cap on maritime transport to third countries
The Permanent Representatives of the 27 Member States of the European Union reached a political agreement on Wednesday morning, during the regular meeting of COREPER, on the eighth EU sanctions package against Russia, the Czech Presidency of the Council of the EU announced in a tweet. The package include a price cap on Russian oil that can be transported to third countries, by ships registered in EU countries or connected to member states.
5.10.2022 – Large annual increase in industrial turnover in July and first 7 months of 2022
Industrial turnover was up sharply y-over-y by over 20% in July and the first seven months of 2022, according to data released on Wednesday by the Statistical Service. In particular, in July 2022, the Index of Turnover in Industry reached 206.3 points (base 2015=100), marking a large increase of 24.9% compared to July 2021. For the period January-July 2022, the index showed an increase of 22.6% compared to the same period in 2021. In the manufacturing sector, the index reached 182.4 points in July 2022, an increase of 12.9% compared to July 2021.
5.10.2022 – Annual increase in registered unemployed in actual and seasonal data in September
The number of registered unemployed in September 2022 increased compared to September last year, according to both actual and seasonally adjusted data, released by the Cyprus Statistical Service. According to the Statistical Service, based on data kept at the Provincial Labour Offices, the number of registered unemployed persons at the end of September 2022 was 11,610, compared to 11,324 persons at the end of September 2021.
5.10.2022 – Ministers call for cooperation and collective action to tackle climate change
The message of cooperation and collective action to tackle climate change sent officials on Wednesday at the press conference to present the main findings of the 7th pan-European environmental assessment report, on the framework of the 9th Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference, taking place in Nicosia. Cyprus’ Agriculture Minister, Costas Kadis, in his address, said that their aspiration is on the one hand to carry out the conference successfully and on the other hand to deliver outcomes, which will enhance the efforts of the governments, organisations, academic institutions, the industry and other involved stakeholders of the pan-European region to effectively protect the environment and to support the development of sustainable, resilient and inclusive communities. He welcomed Ministers of Environment, Education, Infrastructure, Tourism, Foreign Affairs, as well as participants from the Mediterranean, the Middle East and Asia, and Europe.
5.10.2022 – Research spending in Cyprus in 2020 at 0.85% of GDP, average annual growth rate at 10.7% over 10 years
Total spending on research activities in Cyprus amounted to just 0.85% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or €184.8 million in 2020, compared to €164.4 million or 0.71% of GDP in 2019, while the EU average is 2.32%. However, Cyprus has one of the highest average annual growth rates in research expenditure, amounting to 10.7% for the period 2000-2020, compared to 4.0% in the European Union during the same period. The number of people employed in research activities increased in 2020 to 4,196.
5.10.2022 – President Anastasiades in Prague for the European Political Community and the Informal European Council meetings
President Nicos Anastasiades arrived in Prague on Wednesday for the European Political Community and the Informal European Council meetings to be held in the next two days. According to a Presidency statement, Government Spokesperson Marios Pelekanos, who is accompanying the President of the Republic to the Czech Republic, said to the media that the Intergovernmental Meeting of the European Political Community will be held for the first time on Thursday, with the participation of a total of 44 Heads of State and Government, 27 from EU Member States and 17 from countries of the European continent, and aims to exchange views among the participating leaders with a view to creating conditions of security, stability and prosperity of the European continent as a whole, especially in the light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, including aspects of energy, climate change, climate change and other issues.
5.10.2022 – Foreign Ministry makes representations to UNFICYP expecting appropriate reaction
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is making the necessary actions and representations to the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, UNFICYP, from which it expects an appropriate reaction, the Ministry says in a press release following publications in the Turkish Cypriot press regarding an ultimatum given by the pseudo-state to UNFICYP. The Ministry says that the mandate of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus is determined by the relevant UNSC resolutions on Cyprus adding that in these the government of the Republic of Cyprus gives its consent for the development and presence of the Peacekeeping Force on its territory.
5.10.2022 – The future of the banking sector is digital, green and social, experts point out at a Conference on the Banking System
The future of the banking sector is digital, green and social, said the participants at the 3rd online FMW Conference, titled “Banking System: New Challenges and Opportunities”. The Conference also highlighted the contrast between trying to tame inflation by raising interest rates and supporting vulnerable groups to avoid social unrest. Moderator to the Conference was Iosif Iosif, on behalf of FMW, who said that profitability has returned to the banks as the management of the “wounds of the past” began to bear fruit.
6.10.2022 – Finance Minister hands over to House President the proposed 2023 state budget, projecting a €500 mln increase
The proposed 2023 state budget submitted by the Minister of Finance, Constantinos Petrides to the President of the House, Annita Demetriou, on Thursday, is increased by €500 million compared to the last budget. This is the final state budget to be submitted by the present Government and according to Petrides, it adapts to the context of the new international economic crisis and provides for increased operating, development and social spending, due to inflation, but also for a less spending on serving public debt interest.
6.10.2022 – Energean announces new commercial gas discovery offshore Israel
Energean plc has announced that the Hermes exploration well offshore Israel has made a commercial gas discovery of between 7 and 15 bcm and that the Stena IceMax drilling rig has moved to block 12 to drill the Zeus structure. According to an Energean press release, the Hermes exploration well, block 31, offshore Israel, has made a commercial discovery. Preliminary estimates indicate that the structure contains 7 – 15 bcm of recoverable natural gas resources.
6.10.2022 – House prices up in Q2 2022, Cyprus Central Bank says
An acceleration in the increase of house prices was recorded in the second quarter of 2022, mainly due to increased construction costs, the Central Bank of Cyprus says, in its quarterly report on the residential property price indices for Cyprus, drafted by the Central Bank of Cyprus’s Real Estate Unit (REU). The Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) House Price Index (CPI) for houses and apartments, showed an increase in the second quarter of 2022, registering a quarterly increase of 1.7% compared to 1.1% in the previous quarter, while year-on-year the index rose by 4.7% compared to 3.2% in the previous quarter.
6.10.2022 – Announcement of the Fourth UNECE Environmental Performance Review Cycle
The fourth round of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Environmental Performance Reviews (EPRs), was announced on Thursday in Nicosia, with a symbolic move, the signing by representatives of governments and international organisations of a poster with the flags of countries that participated in the previous rounds. The Chair of Expert Group on Environmental Performance Reviews, Harry Liiv, announced the launch of the fourth round of these assessments, which assess assessment of the progress a country has made in reconciling its environmental and economic targets and in meeting its international environmental commitments.
6.10.2022 – Sustainable infrastructure and green economy at the centre of discussion of Ministers and officials at the 9th EfE Ministerial Conference.
Government ministers and representatives of international and regional organisations discussed green economy and sustainable infrastructure on Thursday in the context of the 9th Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference, taking place in Nicosia this week. Participants referred to the need for planning that takes into account the environmental impact of any infrastructure before it is built. In her keynote speech, Acting Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Sonja Leighton-Kone posed the question of how do regions continue to improve the lives of people without undermining humanity’s long-term ability to flourish as a species.
6.10.2022 – ?ducation Ministers adopt 2030 Action Plan of the Mediterranean Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development
Education Ministers of Mediterranean countries who attend the 9th UNECE Ministerial Conference in Nicosia adopted on Thursday afternoon the Action Plan towards 2030 of the Mediterranean Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development (MSESD). The Ministers and other high officials debated that they work jointly in close collaboration with stakeholders in the framework of the MSESD.
6.10.2022 – Anastasiades – Erdogan have brief exchange on need to restart Cyprus talks in Prague, sources say
President Nicos Anastasiades had a brief conversation, which lasted only a few minutes, with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, on the sidelines of the meeting of the European Political Community in Prague, the Cyprus News Agency learns. According to sources, after the pleasantries, Anastasiades pointed out to Erdogan that the Cyprus problem needs to be solved and that there needs to be a return to efforts towards a solution.
6.10.2022 – President refers to parallel between Ukraine and Cyprus in Prague, asks that there be no double standards
Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades pointed out similarities between the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 in a discussion with EU and non-EU European leaders in Prague, Government Spokesperson Marios Pelekanos said after the end of a panel discussion on the theme of “peace and security” during the summit of the European Political Community in Prague, Czechia. In statements to the press, Pelekanos added that Anastasiades reiterated that Cyprus supports the creation of a European Political Community since all countries of the European continent can contribute in the preservation of stability, security and peace, a presidency press release says.
6.10.2022 – Cooperation between democracies of Europe can be pillar of stability and security, Anastasiades says
Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades referred to the role that cooperation between democracies in Europe can play towards stability, security and peace on the continent, in a tweet posted after the end of discussions and between the final dinner of the meeting of the European Political Community in Prague, Czechia. “Today we had the first meeting of the European Political Community.
6.10.2022 – Cyprus’ energy regulatory authority takes part in East Mediterranean Gas Forum meeting in Rome
The necessity of a common and coordinated view and action to boost gas market and energy transition in the Region, shared in a meeting in Rome the energy regulatory authorities of Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, Jordan and Palestine, in the framework of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF). The Chairman of Cyprus’ energy regulatory authority (CERA), Dr. Andreas Poullikkas participated in the third meeting of the Regulatory Authority Advisory Committee (RAAC) in the framework of the EMGF, that took place on October 6, a press release by CERA said.
7.10.2022 – Matters on UNFICYP cooperation part of ongoing dialogue with the Turkish Cypriot side, UN Spokesperson tells CNA
“Matters relating to cooperation with UNFICYP forms part of our regular and ongoing dialogue with the Turkish Cypriot side” said Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, when asked by the Cyprus News Agency to comment about a request by the Turkish Cypriot side for a “status of forces agreement” with them regarding the peacekeeping force. Dujarric confirmed that the UN received a letter from the Turkish Cypriot side on UNFICYP, which requests the conclusion of an agreement with the United Nations.
7.10.2022 – Czech Republic contributes €1 mln to aid Cyprus with voluntary migrant returns
Cyprus’ Minister of Interior, Nicos Nouris, and First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of the Czech Republic, Vit Rakušan, signed on Friday an agreement, that provides for financial assistance towards Nicosia, of €1 mln, to aid Cyprus with voluntary migrant returns. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the MED 5 Ministerial Summit in Pafos District.
7.10.2022 – Cyprus officials highlight need for solidarity over migration as MED5 Summit kicks off in Paphos region
Cyprus officials highlighted on Friday the role of frontline countries taking the brunt of migratory flows and underlined the need for EU solidarity, while welcoming Ministers from EU Mediterranean countries for the MED5 Summit, taking place in the Paphos region. There can be no common asylum and migration policy that leaves the frontline Member States unprotected, said Cyprus’ Minister of Interior, Nicos Nouris, who is hosting the Summit.
7.10.2022 – The instrumentalization of the migration issue by Turkey constitutes a new and more dangerous “Attila”, Nouris says
The instrumentalization of the migration issue by Turkey, is “a worse and more dangerous Attila”, Minister of Interior, Nicos Nouris said on Friday, during the inauguration of a photo exhibition about the green line in Cyprus, on the sidelines of the MED5 Ministerial Summit, at Anassa hotel, in Paphos district. The photo exhibition “On the line” features a collection of photos from the Photographic Archive of the Press and Information Office (PIO), in an “effort to join the dots of an imaginary line connecting two major plagues of Cyprus: the old but still open sore of the Turkish invasion with the contemporary wound of the migration issue”, as announced by the PIO.
7.10.2022 – Ministers adopt Nicosia Declaration with strong commitment to policy actions, condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine
Ministers who attended the 9th UNECE Ministerial Conference in Nicosia, adopted on Friday the ministerial declaration affirming countries’ commitment to a green economy transition with sustainable infrastructure at its core. The declaration also calls on countries to join actions under the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative and underlines the need for more and stronger education for sustainable development.
7.10.2022 – UNECE Executive Secretary hopes that by next Conference our world will be greener, cleaner, more just and more peaceful than now
Olga Algayerova, the Executive Secretary of the UNECE praised all participants of the 9th Environment for Europe (EfE) Ministerial Conference in Nicosia for their insightful remarks and their strong contribution, and hoped that by next EfE in five years, our world will be greener, cleaner, more just, and more peaceful than it is now. Algayerova delivered her closing remarks during the last session of the Conference which concluded Friday in Cyprus’ divided capital and gathered together 71 Ministers and Deputy Ministers from 65 countries and approximately 1,000 participants in what was described as the biggest event Cyprus ever hosted.
7.10.2022 – Turkey puts obstacles on EU effort to end energy dependence to Russia and undermines sanctions, President says
The European Union has to act in such a way that will send Turkey the message that actions placing obstacles to the EU’s efforts to end energy dependence on Russia cannot be accepted, Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades said in his intervention during the discussion on energy that took place in the informal European Council in Prague, according to Government Spokesperson Marios Pelekanos. Pelekanos was referring in statements to the media, to what President Anastasiades said about the role that Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean can play towards ending the EU’s energy dependency in Russia, a presidency press release says.
7.10.2022 – Cyprus records fiscal surplus of €380 million in January – August 2022
Cyprus generated a fiscal surplus amounting to €379.9 million, or 1.5% of GDP, in the period of January-August 2022 compared with a deficit of €535.2 mn or 2.3% of GDP in the respective period of last year, preliminary data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat) show. The surplus was generated by the significant increase in revenue compared with the modest growth in expenditure.
7.10.2022 – President disappointed over Europe’s ‘double standards’ as regards Turkey, he tells Euronews
President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades has expressed his disappointment for the double standards tactics of the European Union regarding Turkey. Speaking to Euronews in the Czech Republic, following the new provocative statements by the Turkish President at the informal European Council in Prague, the Cypriot President underlined that “it is this tolerance that creates the risks of a new conflict within Europe”.
8.10.2022 – MED 5 Joint Statement draws attention to EU borders, the Green Line, solidarity and burden sharing within the EU
The Joint Statement published following the conclusion of the MED 5 Ministerial Summit in Paphos on Saturday, draws attention to EU external borders surveillance and management, including the Green Line despite its specific circumstances, and emphasizes on the need for a mandatory solidarity mechanism, with swift and effective measures of fair burden sharing within the EU. The Ministers of the five front-line EU member-states, concluded to the statement, in view of the upcoming EU Home Affairs meeting under the Czech Presidency on October 14 in Luxembourg.
8.10.2022 – Spain and Malta underline need for fair burden sharing over migration following MED5 Summit in Paphos
Ministers responsible for migration and asylum from Spain and Malta underlined the need for more solidarity in the EU and fair burden sharing over migrant flows that have a particular impact on front line member states. Minister for Home Affairs, Security, Reforms and Equality of Malta Byron Camilleri and Spain’s Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska Gomez, attended along with fellow Ministers the MED5 Summit, hosted by Cyprus’ Interior Minister Nicos Nouris on Friday and Saturday in the Akamas region, in Paphos.
8.10.2022 – Cyprus’ Interior Minister to propose enabling asylum applications to be filed prior to arriving in the EU
Cyprus’ Interior Minister Nicos Nouris said on Saturday that the bloc should consider modifying the mechanism to file asylum requests outside the EU, either in the countries of origin or transit of migrants “and in any case before their arrival on European territory.” He said that he intends to raise this issue on behalf of the Republic of Cyprus during the upcoming Home Affairs Council, in Luxembourg.
8.10.2022 – Cyprus’ President and his Portuguese counterpart highlight the cooperation prospects between the two countries
The cooperation prospects that are opening up in all sectors after the first official visit of the President of Portugal to Cyprus were highlighted on Saturday by President Nicos Anastasiades and his Portuguese counterpart, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, after their meeting on Saturday at the Presidential Palace. In the framework of de Sousa’s official visit, the two countries signed a Bilateral Agreement on the Exchange and Mutual Protection of Classified Information.
8.10.2022 – House President discussed prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation with the President of Portugal
Bilateral relations between Cyprus and Portugal and the prospects for further strengthening cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest and at all levels, including the parliamentary level, were discussed, inter alia, during the meeting the President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou had with the President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Saturday, in the framework of the latter’s official visit to Cyprus following an invitation by the President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades. According to a statement by the House, referring to current developments, the President of the House criticised Turkey’s increasing aggression against the Republic of Cyprus, both within the Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone and on the ground, as well as the Turkish President’s announcements regarding a campaign for the recognition of the illegal entity and for further militarisation of the occupied territories of the Republic of Cyprus.
8.10.2022 – EU should demand from Turkey to implement 2016 agreement and proceed with migrants’ returns, Mitarachis says
“It is time for the EU to demand from Turkey, in a collective and coordinated manner, to control its borders, prevent illegal departures from its territory and enforce measures against smugglers, as it should”, Greek Minister of Migration, Notis Mitarachis, said today from Paphos region, after the conclusion of the fourth MED 5 Ministerial Summit on migration and asylum. He noted that the procedure for returns of immigrants to Turkey should resume, as provided by the EU-Turkey agreement of 2016, and emphasized on the need for enhanced monitoring and protection of the EU external borders, additionally to the demonstration of solidarity between the member-states, which is a demand of the MED 5 for migration and asylum.
8.10.2022 – EU needs to show readiness over instrumentalization of migrants, Czech Minister says
EU countries must show that they are prepared to defend themselves against the instrumentalization of migrants, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the Czech Republic, Vít Rakušan, said on Saturday. Rakušan, whose country is holding the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU, attended in the region of Akamas, in Paphos, the MED5 Summit, comprising Ministers from Mediterranean member states who discussed migration and asylum over Friday and Saturday.
9.10.2022 – There can be no further tolerance of the unacceptable Turkish manipulations, Cyprus’ President says
All the necessary diplomatic representations are being made to the United Nations and the EU so that everyone realises that there can be no further tolerance of the unacceptable Turkish manipulations, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, said on Sunday. Asked by journalists upon his arrival at an event in the context of the 42nd anti-occupation march of Morphou refugees, that took place in Astromeritis, in the Nicosia district, what actions the Republic of Cyprus was taking regarding the latest demands of the Turkish Cypriot side from UNFICYP, the President said that all the necessary diplomatic representations are being made to the United Nations and to the EU, “so that everyone realises that there can be no further tolerance for the unacceptable Turkish manipulations”.
9.10.2022 – The expansion of cooperation with Cyprus and Greece will continue, Israel’s Minister of Defence tells CNA
Israel’s cooperation with the Republic of Cyprus and Greece will continue to expand even more in the future, the Israeli Minister of Defence, Benny Gantz, told CNA. Gantz, who is also the leader of the centre-right party coalition “Power Faction”, asked on how he assesses the course of relations between Israel and Cyprus during the term of the outgoing government and especially during his term as head of the Ministry of Defence, told CNA that the relations with Cyprus, as well as the relations that have been created in the context of tripartite cooperation with Greece, were “of excellent quality.”
9.10.2022 – Morphou Memory Days culminated with the anti-occupation march in Astromeritis, foreign officials expressed expectation for the return to Morphou
The 42nd Morphou Memory Days culminated on Sunday with the anti-occupation march of Morphou and the occupied communities of the Morphou District in the village of Astromeritis. The events began with a memorial service for the fallen and a prayer for the finding of the missing and the return of the refugees to their ancestral homes at the Church of St. Avxivios in Astromeritis, in the presence of, among others, the President of the Parliament, Annita Demetriou, a representative of the Greek Parliament, leaders and representatives of political parties, Ambassadors, Mayors and Municipal Councils, foreign dignitaries. Addressing the event, President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades strongly criticised Turkey for trying to turn Cyprus into a submissive state as it has done with the Turkish occupied north of Cyprus, and blamed the European Union and the United Nations for sharing responsibility for the situation.
10.10.2022 – EU should have concrete sanctions in place for those instrumentalizing migrants, Interior Minister tells CNA
The EU should have concrete sanctions in place when there is proof that migrants are being instrumentalized, as in the case of Cyprus, Interior Minister Nicos Nouris said. In an interview with the Cyprus News Agency, the Minister also referred to the results of the MED5 Summit, in Paphos, that brought together his counterparts from the Mediterranean member states, responsible for migration and asylum, noting that they maintained a “coherent front” ahead of the upcoming Home Affairs Council, in Luxembourg, set to discuss migration. Nouris also referred to the need to exercise more effective control in the Green Line to contain irregular migration.
10.10.2022 – Cyprus is in a privileged position on the world’s shipping map, President says at “Maritime Cyprus 2022” Conference
Cyprus is in a privileged position on the world’s shipping map, President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades said Monday addressing the “Maritime Cyprus 2022” Conference that takes place in Limassol. “We feel very proud of our achievements which have placed our small country in a privileged position on the world’s shipping map” he said, adding that “we have established a competitive and modern international shipping center, ranked highly globally both as regards ship registries and third-party ship-management”. Speaking on the sidelines, Deputy Minister of Shipping, Vassilis Demetriades said that a strong shipping ensures an energy independent Europe. This year’s participation at “Maritime Cyprus 2022” Conference has exceeded previous ones, with more than 900 delegates from 35 countries, he said.
10.10.2022 – Trade deficit increased annually by €1.5 bln in first 8 months of 2022
Trade deficit increased by €1.5 billion in the period from January to August 2022, compared to the same period of 2021, according to provisional data issued by the Statistical Service of Cyprus for August 2022. The deficit was €5,120.1 million in January-August 2022, increased from €3,587.5 in January-August 2021. Additionally, total imports of goods (from EU Member States and from third countries) in January – August 2022 amounted to €7,640.2 mn as compared to €5,548.4 mn in January – August 2021, recording an increase of 37.7%.
10.10.2022 – Total registrations of motor vehicles decreased by 4% the first 9 months of 2022
The total registrations of motor vehicles decreased by 4% to 26,581 in the period January-September 2022, from 27,699 in January-September 2021, according to data published in the report entitled “Registration of Motor Vehicles” by the Statistical Service of Cyprus on Monday. During this period, passenger saloon cars decreased to 21,183 from 21,336 in January-September 2021, recording a fall of 0.7%.
10.10.2022 – European Commission stands by Cyprus on lifting of Turkey’s embargo on ships and airplanes, says Commissioner Valean
The position of the European Commission has been clear for a long time regarding the lifting of the Turkish embargo on Cypriot-flagged ships and airplanes, said Commissioner for Transport Adina Valean, who at the same time praised Cyprus’ efforts and contribution to the implementation of green transport policies. Speaking in the context of a joint press conference with the Minister of Transport Yannis Karousos and the Deputy Shipping Minister Vassilis Demetriades on the sidelines of their meeting in Limassol, where the “Maritime Cyprus” conference is taking place Valean said “we are standing by Cyprus on this and we are using all the opportunities internationally we have to raise this issue”.
11.10.2022 – Foreign Affairs Ministry condemns Russian missile attacks against civilians in Ukraine
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus condemns the new Russian missile attacks against civilians in Ukraine and expresses its full support and solidarity to the government and people of the country. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs “condemns the new missile attacks against civilian infrastructure and civilians in Ukrainian cities, which resulted in loss of life”. We express full support and solidarity to the Government and people of Ukraine, it says, and reiterates “the need to respect the Sovereignty, Independence and Territorial Integrity of all States”.
11.10.2022 – Cyprus and Greece FMs hold telephone conversation, focusing on Libya
Foreign Ministers of Cyprus and Greece held a telephone conversation on Tuesday, during which they discussed various issues focusing on the developments in Libya. A tweet by the Cyprus Foreign Ministry says that Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides and his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias had a useful exchange of views on issues regarding the national, regional and European agenda, emphasizing on the developments in Libya.
11.10.2022 – Employment increased yearly by 0.4% in September 2022, mainly due to casual staff
In September 2022 total government employment increased by 193 persons, or 0.4% in comparison to the corresponding month of 2021 and reached 52,601 persons, according to the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Permanent staff decreased by 782 persons, by 3%, and fell from 26,392 to 25,610 persons.
11.10.2022 – High Commissioner Antonis Sammoutis presents credentials to Governor General of Australia
High Commissioner Antonis Sammoutis, presented his letters of credence, to the Governor General of Australia, General David Hurley (Retd), during a ceremony where special reference was made to the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cyprus and Australia in 2023. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs press release said the new High Commissioner had a private meeting with the Governor General, to whom he conveyed the warm greetings of the President of the Republic of Cyprus.
11.10.2022 – Challenges and opportunities in aviation, maritime and public transport sectors in Cyprus, EU Commissioner tells CNA
Commissioner for Transport Adina Valean referred to the challenges but also opportunities that new EU sanctions on Russia bring to the maritime sector in Cyprus, the future of air transport amidst the green transition, and talked about how the EU can contribute to increasing Cyprus’s air connectivity, in a interview to the Cyprus News Agency. Responding to written questions on the occasion of her visit to Cyprus to participate in the “Maritime Cyprus” conference, Valean also talked about the prospects of public transport and maritime passenger lines in Cyprus.
12.10.2022 – Tax returns from previous years are being cleared at a rapid pace, the Tax Commissioner tells CNA
The Tax Department is proceeding rapidly with the clearing of the Tax Declarations of companies and individuals from previous years with the aim of having all the declarations cleared by the summer of 2023, Tax Commissioner, Sotiris Markides, told CNA. According to data by the Department, a refundable revenue tax of €12 million and a payable tax of €17 million resulted from the clearance of revenue statements for the tax year 2016, while approximately €23m refundable revenue tax and €89m payable income tax resulted from the companies’ revenue statements for the tax years 2015, 2016 and 2017.
12.10.2022 – Cabinet initiates process for withdrawal of citizenship from three investors and seven of their dependents
The Council of Ministers decided on Wednesday to initiate a process for the withdrawal of citizenship from three investors and seven of their dependents, on the basis of an investigation conducted by the Interior Ministry departments, Deputy Government Spokeswoman, Niovi Parissinou, announced after the cabinet’s meeting. According to Parissinou, in total, from October 2021 until today, the cabinet has decided the withdrawal of citizenship from 60 investors and 159 of their dependents. In addition to these cases, the procedure for withdrawing the citizenship of six other people, from whom travel documents have been removed, has been completed, Parissinou said.
12.10.2022 – Nicosia welcomes maritime border agreement between Israel and Lebanon
The Cyprus government has welcomed the announced maritime border agreement between Israel and Lebanon, that was reached with US mediation. The Foreign Ministry said in a press release that it is estimated that this very significant development will contribute to the creation of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
12.10.2022 – IMF forecasts a return to fiscal surpluses for Cyprus following the pandemic
Cyprus’ public finances will return to surpluses in 2023 which will continue until 2027, the IMF said in its Fiscal Monitor 2022 issued on Wednesday. The IMF projects that following the deficits recorded in the Covid-19 pandemic and the correction of 2021 and 2022, Cyprus public balance will register a surplus of 0.9% of GDP next year. The budget surplus will increase at 1.3% in 2024 followed by a surplus of 1.6% in 2025 while the surplus will amount to 1.7% in 2026 and 2027.
12.10.2022 – Kyriakides, Kluge and Ammon call European countries to vaccinate those vulnerable to COVID-19 and season flu ahead of winter
Commissioner for Health Stella Kyriakides, the World Health Organisation’s regional director for Europe Hans Henri P. Kluge and the director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control Andrea Ammon called on the countries of Europe to vaccinate those vulnerable to both COVID-19 and seasonal flu ahead of the winter, in a joint statement. “Although we are not where we were one year ago, it is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is still not over” the three officials underlined.
12.10.2022 – EU -Turkey relations deteriorate due to violations and threats against Greece and Cyprus, Commission report says
EU-Turkey relations deteriorated in the first half of 2022 due to repeated violations of Greek airspace by Turkish fighter jets in the Aegean and threatening Turkish statements regarding the sovereignty of Greek islands and against Cyprus, the European Commission has said in its report on Turkey published on Wednesday. It called on Turkey to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all EU member states.
12.10.2022 – EU Commissioner Kyriakides meets with Anthony Fauci during official US visit
European Commissioner for Health Stella Kyriakides met with the White House’s chief medical advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci, as part of her official visit to the United States. In a tweet, Kyriakides said that Dr. Fauci was “one of the key scientific voices in the darkest times of #COVID19”. Ahead of his retirement, Kyriakides expressed her wish that Fauci remains “an active advocate for global health in the future”.
12.10.2022 – ?urope and Cyprus must continue to support Ukraine, House President says in Brussels
House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou spoke of the importance of continued support to Ukraine from Europe and Cyprus amidst the Russian invasion, on the sidelines of a Meeting of Women Speakers of Parliaments of the EU, in Brussels, in which she took part following an invitation by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Czech Speaker Markéta Pekarová Adamová.
12.10.2022 – Cyprus reaffirms unwavering support for gender equality at UN Committee
Cyprus has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all women and girls, as well as the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Addressing on Tuesday the 77th Session of the General Assembly’s 3rd Committee on a debate for the Advancement of Women, Cyprus’ Permanent Representative to the UN Andreas Hadjichrysanthou said that “Cyprus, considers human rights as a cornerstone of multilateral system.”
12.10.2022 – Cyprus may consider transferring weapons to Ukraine, Government Spokesman tells the NYT
Cyprus “would be ready to consider” the transfer of some of the weapons and its ammunition to Ukraine if “replaced with another military apparatus of equal power and capabilities” the government spokesman of Cyprus, Marios Pelekanos, told the “New York Times” newspaper. NYT, with its extensive reporting on the supply of arms and ammunition to Ukraine, mentions the lifting of the embargo on Cyprus by the Biden administration, allowing it to buy American weapons. A move, the article states, which was several years in the making and aimed to distance Cyprus from Russian influence. However, an American official told the NYT that Cyprus is now “a possible option” as a supplier to Ukraine.
13.10.2022 – No proposal or consultations for transporting weapons from Cyprus to Ukraine, Spokesman tells CNA
There is no concrete proposal or any consultations for transporting weapons from Cyprus to Ukraine, Government Spokesman, Marios Pelekanos, has told CNA, asked about this issue after his relevant statements to New York Times. “No concrete consultations have taken place on this issue.
13.10.2022 – Industrial production in EU and euro area up in August according to Eurostat estimates
Seasonally adjusted industrial production increased by 1.5% in the euro area and by 1.1% in the European Union in August compared with July. It was also up by 2.5% and 3.5% respectively compared with August 2021 according to estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In July 2022, industrial production had decreased by 2.3% in the euro area and by 1.5% in the EU compared with June 2022.
13.10.2022 – Cyprus votes in favour of resolution for the territorial Integrity of Ukraine
“Cyprus is strongly opposed to any modification of the fundamental principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states” pledged Ambassador Andreas Hadjichrysanthou, Cyprus’ Permanent Representative to the UN during the 11th Emergency Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly on Ukraine on Wednesday which voted in favour of the resolution for the territorial integrity of Ukraine. At the same time, he expressed disappointment that the UN Security Council has failed to do everything in its power to prevent and end the war in Ukraine. In his statement, Hadjichrysanthou said Cyprus condemns the illegal and illegitimate holding of the so-called “referenda” in the occupied regions of Ukraine as well as their subsequent attempted annexation by the Russian Federation.
13.10.2022 – Bilateral relations at telephone conversation between Cyprus FM and Indonesian counterpart
Cyprus Foreign Affairs Minister, Ioannis Kasoulides, had on Thursday a telephone conversation with the FM of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi. According to a Foreign Ministry post on Twitter they had a fruitful and productive discussion on issues pertaining to bilateral relations and possible ways to further expand existing cooperation in various fields.
13.10.2022 – Average employee gross earnings up 3.2% in 2021
The average gross monthly earnings of employees for 2021 increased by 3.2% compared to 2020 to €2,067, reaching a decade high. According to a press release by the Statistical Service of Cyprus, in monetary terms, the average gross monthly earnings have increased by 3.2% compared to the previous year. In real terms (deflating using the Consumer Price Index) the increase is 0.7%.
13.10.2022 – Cyprus to present action plan on climate change in a special summit in COP27 in Egypt
Cyprus will present its action plan, drafted in the context of its initiative to combat climate change in the region of Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East in the context of the COP27 Summit to take place in Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh next month, President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades has said. The action plan will be presented during a special summit on November 8, co-chaired by President Anastasiades and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fatah el Sisi in the presence of leaders of the region, Cyprus President told an event, at the Presidential Palace, to showcase the progress of the Cypriot initiative.
13.10.2022 – Interior Minister in Luxembourg for EU Home Affairs Council
Cyprus Interior Minister Nicos Nouris departs for Luxembourg on Thursday evening to participate in the EU Home Affairs Council, on October 14. A press release says that the Czech Presidency of the Council of the EU will present the progress related to the issues of asylum and migration and the Ministers will discuss the recent developments in the Western Balkan migration route, from where migration flows have increased significantly this year.
13.10.2022 – Most capital regions in the EU have younger populations, while Cyprus is under the average median age in EU regions
Capital regions in the European Union tend to have fairly young populations, with the EU median age being at 44.1 years in 2021, up from 43.9 in 2020, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. In Cyprus, which is one of the countries in the EU where data is recorded as one region, the median age of all inhabitants stands at 38 years, under the average median age in the EU.
13.10.2022 – Cyprus’ FinMin holds meetings with rating agencies in Washington
Cypriot Minister of Finance Constantinos Petrides is currently paying Washington, USA, a visit where he is holding contacts and attending a number of meetings. Petrides met separately with representatives of three rating agencies during his visit to discuss the prospects and challenges of the Cypriot economy as well as the developments and effects of the Russian-Ukrainian war.
13.10.2022 – Further drop of the CCLEI amid a highly uncertain environment especially in Europe
The Cyprus Composite Leading Economic Index (CCLEI) recorded a year-over-year decrease of 4.0% in September 2022 following the y-o-y decrease of 2.9% in August and 2.5% in July 2022, based on the recent and revised data. According to a press release by the Economic Research Center of the University of Cyprus, the highly uncertain geopolitical and economic environment, and its effects, are reflected in the September CCLEI.
13.10.2022 – Cypriots do not trust bank employees for advice on financial activities, Eurobarometer shows
Cypriots do not trust bank employees for advice on their financial activities compared to citizens in the rest of the EU, but they trust advertising material more, according to an extraordinary Eurobarometer, released Thursday by the European Commission. The Eurobarometer examined the relationship of European citizens with financial services, especially amid the ever-increasing digitization of the economic sector.
13.10.2022 – EU is exposed to the international climate of protectionism, strategic autonomy is a must, a discussion by the Cyprus Economic Society concluded
EU is exposed to the protectionist tendencies that the US and China seem to be following, due to its high dependence on international trade and there is, therefore, a need to develop its strategic autonomy, a debate organized by the Cyprus Economic Society, called “Building Europe’s strategic autonomy, while decoupling trends accelerate”, concluded. The speaker, Elvire Fabry, is an academic, senior research fellow at the Jacques Delors Institute, in charge for trade policy, EU in globalization and Brexit.
13.10.2022 – Cyprus will not send weapons to Ukraine, says President Anastasiades
Cyprus will not send weapons to Ukraine, President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades said Thursday. In statements upon his arrival tonight at Keravnos basketball club for an event and to a remark by a journalist that political parties think that such a decision is catastrophic, the President replied that Cyprus is a semi-occupied country, it needs a defense armor and therefore “without defense armor we cannot survive”.
14.10.2022 – ?oushos attends informal Council of Employment and Social Affairs in Prague
Minister of Labor and Social Insurance Kyriakos Koushos is in Prague for the Informal Council of EU Ministers of Employment and Social Affairs. An announcement says that the impact of the war in Ukraine on labor markets and social protection systems in member states and measures to combat energy poverty are on the agenda.
14.10.2022 – NPLs at 11% in July, marking slight decrease from the month before
Non-performing loans (NPLs) in the Cypriot banking system amounted to €2.85 billion in July 2022 marking a slight decrease in comparison to the previous month. According to the data released by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC), NPLs amounted to €2,850 million or 11% of total loans in the banking system.
14.10.2022 – By the end of 2027 Cyprus will have an excess of renewable energy that could be exported or exchanged, President Anastasiades says
?t is estimated that by the end of 2027 Cyprus will have an excess of renewable energy that could be exported or exchanged, in addition to the quantities that could be available from Egypt, Israel, and Greece, President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, said on Friday morning, in his address at the EMGF Energy Transition Conference hosted in Nicosia. Anastasiades noted that Cyprus can become a net exporter of electricity at capacities that could range from 120 Gigawatt hours in 2027, up to 1000 in 2030, and exceeding 1800 in 2033.
14.10.2022 – Civil Defence mission participates in large-scale search and rescue exercise in Montenegro
Cypriot rescuers of the Civic Defence participated in a large-scale European search and rescue exercise in Montenegro on October 10 – 14 in the context of the EU programme Balance funded by the Directorate General of Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations via the Civil Protection Mechanism. According to an official press release, the “Balance” consortium comprises academic institutions, civil protection organisations, as well as other public institutions from Montenegro, Croatia, Albania, Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria, Italy and Spain.
14.10.2022 – Cyprus’ role in the fight against financial crime was highlighted at International Compliance Forum
Cyprus’ role in the fight against financial crime was highlighted by speakers at the 8th International Compliance Forum that took place on Friday in Nicosia, with the support of the Bank of Cyprus. Marios Skandalis on behalf of the Bank of Cyprus, said that the presence of representatives from the USA and England confirms the support for Cyprus in the fight against financial crime, while the representative of the US State Department, Erik Woodhouse, praised Cyprus’ efforts to combat money laundering and pointed out his country’s willingness to continue and strengthen their cooperation with Cyprus regarding the implementation of economic sanctions against Russia.
14.10.2022 – Cyprus problem among issues discussed between Dendias – Cleverly in London
The Cyprus problem was among the issues discussed during the first meeting between Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias and new British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly that took place Friday in London. In statements before the meeting at the Foreign Office, Dendias said that the focus of his visit is the bilateral cooperation framework and the implementation of the strategic agreement that he had signed with the current Prime Minister Liz Truss when she was the Foreign Secretary.
14.10.2022 – EU aid to Turkey for immigration problem should be given under conditions, Interior Minister says
Minister of the Interior Nicos Nouris, who participated in the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council, has underlined Turkey’s role in the trafficking of irregular immigrants noting that the aid of 200 million euro, which is planned for Turkey for the security of its external borders, should only be given under certain conditions. In a written statement, the Minister notes that the conditions concern Turkey’s compliance with the EU visa program, the control of illegal departures from its southern coasts, the control of transfer passengers from Istanbul to the Turkish occupied territories of Cyprus and the termination of fake student visas.
14.10.2022 – “EuroAsia Interconnector”, an emblematic project of great geopolitical, strategic and national importance, President says
President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades described this day as historic, since, as he said, after years of deliberations and hard-work, we are now in a position to proceed with the construction phase of the “EuroAsia Interconnector”, an emblematic project of great geopolitical, strategic and national importance. In his address at the inauguration ceremony of the EuroAsia Interconnector, that took place Friday at the Presidential Palace, the President said that this is a project which will connect the Cypriot, Greek and Israeli power grids through the world’s longest submarine power cable which will total over one thousand two hundred kilometres, with a two- thousand-Megawatt capability.
14.10.2022 – The inauguration ceremony of the EuroAsia Interconnector project, is an “historic event,” European Commissioner for Energy, says
The inauguration in Nicosia on Friday evening of the EuroAsia Interconnector project that will link Cyprus to the energy network of the rest of the EU, was welcomed by officials, as an “historic” event and milestone. The inauguration ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in the presence of Cyprus’ President Nicos Anastasiades, European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, Greece’s Minister of Environment and Energy, Kostas Skrekas, and the CEO of the EuroAsia Interconnector, Nasos Ktorides.
15.10.2022 – Coordination needed more than ever to combat huge economic challenges, FinMin says
Cypriot Finance Minister Constantinos Petrides said that coordination among states sharing the principles of democracy and freedom is needed more than ever to tackle the huge economic challenges. Petrides attended the first ever meeting of the Euro area Finance Ministers (Eurogroup) in Washington and the Eurogroup meeting with US Secretary of Treasury, Janet Yellen.
16.10.2022 – The EC draft regulation on illegal migration offers a ray of hope, says Interior Minister Nouris
A draft regulation from the European Commission offers a ray of hope, as the Republic of Cyprus has no other option but to proceed with measures to halt access to the government controlled areas from the Green Line, said the Minister of Interior Nikos Nouris. Nouris’ remarks on the latest developments concerning illegal immigration from the Turkish occupied north, were made on Sunday during the memorial service of EOKA Liberation struggle hero Panagiotis Toumazou, held at the Agia Paraskevi church in Episkopi, Limassol.
17.10.2022 – EU Structural Reform Support Director-General stresses need for building confidence between the two communities in Cyprus
EU Structural Reform Support Director-General, Mario Nava, has stressed the need for building confidence between the two communities in Cyprus. Nava, who was received on Monday morning by President, Nicos Anastasiades, at the Presidential Palace, said in a post on Twitter that they discussed about Cyprus’ reunification. He added that “it requires building confidence between the two communities. Reunification will benefit all Cypriots.” Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. CNA/MK/AGK/2022 ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY
17.10.2022 – Inflation is forecast at 8.6% in 2022, real GDP growth at 4.9% in 2022, ?conomics Research Centre says
Consumer Price Index inflation is forecast at 8.6% and 3.4% for 2022 and 2023, respectively, while real GDP growth in 2022 is projected at 4.9% and in 2023 is forecast at 2.4%, the ?conomics Research Centre of the University of Cyprus says. In its economic outlook issue for October 2022, it notes that real GDP growth in 2022 is projected at 4.9%, up by 2.0 percentage points compared to the forecast in the July issue.
17.10.2022 – “Cyprus Made”, the new label and logo of authentic Cypriot products aims to further increase exports, says Minister
“Cyprus Made” is the new label and logo for authentic Cypriot products, which aims to further increase exports, in the years to come. The exports increased by 50% in the last five years. The new label and logo, “Cyprus made, Unique by origin”, were presented on Monday during the opening of the “Industry Week” fair by Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister Natasa Pilides.
17.10.2022 – Prolonged increase in prices, the risk with the most significant consequences for the economy, survey shows
A survey conducted by the Cyprus Economy and Competitiveness Council shows that the significant and prolonged increase in prices/inflation is ranked by experts from the private and wider public sector as the most likely risk with the most serious consequences for the Cypriot economy. The “significant and prolonged increase in prices/inflation”, has a risk index of 93% and is considered a risk with a 90% probability of happening and a severity of consequences reaching 96%. It is considered as an immediate risk (in 0-2 years).
17.10.2022 – New UK Minister for Europe assures of support for Cyprus settlement in line with UN parameters
The new UK Minister for Europe Leo Docherty has reaffirmed the British government’s support for a settlement to the Cyprus issue within the UN parameters, based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. In a response letter to the Board of British Cypriots, the minister states: “We believe that the best way to address the situation in Cyprus remains through a just and lasting settlement on the island in line with UN parameters.
17.10.2022 – GDP revised to €24.01 billion for 2021 and €21.89 billion for 2020
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Cyprus at current prices has been revised to €24,018.9 million for 2021 and €21,894.9 million for 2020, according to the Statistical Service. In addition, the growth rate in real terms (volume measures) is estimated at -4.4% and 6.6% for 2020 and 2021 respectively. According to the Statistical Service, the data revision for the years 2010-2018 is due to the incorporation of the findings from the Horizontal Reservations imposed on all EU Member States.
17.10.2022 – Population at risk of poverty or social exclusion drops by 2,000 people in 2021
The number of people in Cyprus at risk of poverty or social exclusion fell in 2021 by 2,000 to 154,000, compared to 156,000 in 2020, according to the Cyprus Statistical Service, which published an infographic on “Poverty or Social Exclusion, 2021” on the occasion of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, celebrated every year on 17 October around the world. In Cyprus, according to the Service, the percentage of the population at risk of poverty or social exclusion, i.e. living in households with disposable income below the poverty line (€10,011 per person equivalent) or living in households with severe material and social deprivation or living in households with a very low labour intensity index, reached 17.3% in 2021, compared to 17.6% in 2020.
17.10.2022 – Cyprus residents’ trips abroad almost double in September 2022 compared to last year
Cyprus residents’ trips abroad almost doubled in September 2022 compared to last year, according to data provided by the Cyprus Statistical Service. A total of 122,450 residents of Cyprus returned from a trip abroad in September 2022, compared to 66,452 in the corresponding month last year, recording an increase of 84.3%. The data show that the main countries from which the residents of Cyprus returned in September 2022 were Greece with 37.1%, the United Kingdom with 9.2% and Italy with 5.2%.
17.10.2022 – Kasoulides meets Dendias in Luxembourg, underlines Cypriot position on Turkish – Libyan memorandum
Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides expressed hope that Turkey could proceed towards an EEZ delimitation agreement with Cyprus, speaking during Monday’s meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg, while commenting on the delineation agreement recently reached between Israel and Lebanon. According to a press release by the Ministry, Kasoulides referred to the situation in Lebanon and welcomed the agreement reached with Israel.
17.10.2022 – Kadis discusses ways to address effects of energy crisis on agriculture during Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Luxembourg
The pressures on agricultural sector in Cyprus and in the rest of the EU, the co-financing of phytosanitary and veterinary programmes in the EU and issues relating to sustainable tuna fishing were discussed by Agriculture Minister Costas Kadis during the Agriculture and Fisheries Council of the European Union that took place in Luxembourg on Monday. According to a press release, the discussion was mostly focused on the situation in agricultural markets and the challenges European farmers are faced with.
17.10.2022 – Any new demands that significantly derail budget will not be accepted, President says
President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades said Tuesday that he has decided and will recommend to the Council of Ministers to proceed with a relevant decision so that from November 1st, any new demands, that significantly derail the state budget, are not to be accepted. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the two-day Economist Conference in Nicosia, entitled “Navigating the crisis through mastery and inclusiveness”, the President added that demands which are justified and do not negatively affect the state budget or plans, will certainly be examined as will any new measures to support citizens, especially the vulnerable groups due to the energy crisis and inflation. He stressed that the government will continue its responsible policy until it hands over to the next one following the presidential elections in February 2023.
18.10.2022 – Cyprus and Greece will not adopt the same aggressive policy that Turkey follows, FMs Kasoulides and Dendias say
Foreign Minister of Cyprus and Greece, Ioannis Kasoulides and Nikos Dendias, underlined on Tuesday that their countries will not adopt the same aggressive policy that Turkey has been following against them. Moreover, they once against denounced the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
18.10.2022 – Cyprus net recipient of approximately €133 mln from the EU in 2021
In 2021 Cyprus was the net recipient of approximately 133 million euro from the EU and is consistent in the implementation of programs with the absorption of European funds, Lazaros Lazarou, Cyprus’ member in the European Court of Auditors, said Tuesday. Lazarou submitted the annual report of his Office to the President of the Republic. This is his last term and he is succeeded by MEP Lefteris Christophorou.
18.10.2022 – 18th Economist Summit: The war in Ukraine is changing the European structure
Former Leaders and officials sent on Tuesday the message that the European Union cannot remain the same after the war in Ukraine, during the Economist’s 18th Annual Cyprus Summit in Nicosia. Former Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko said that after Ukraine’s victory over Russia, the country expects new approaches to the security strategy in Europe. She pointed out that Ukraine’s victory was not only about crushing the Russian army, but also about what would happen next, to Putin’s “corrupt, terrorist regime” which will continue to pose a threat to the world.
18.10.2022 – Italian former PM Renzi supports a United States of Europe vision
Former Prime Minister of Italy, Matteo Renzi, has expressed his support to a United States of Europe vision. Speaking on the Future of Europe, during the Economist 18th Annual Cyprus Summit, that opened on Tuesday in Nicosia, under the title “Navigating the crisis through mastery and inclusiveness” ,Renzi said that “in this time of crisis we have only one way forward: to try to encourage a vision focused on the United States of Europe.”
18.10.2022 – Finance Minister highlights need for fiscal prudence amidst energy crisis at Economist Summit
The need for a prudent fiscal stance which would maintain the necessary buffers that would enable government support to the vulnerable amid the current energy crisis, was highlighted during the 18th Economist Summit, with Cyprus’ Finance Minister warning that markets may “punish us if we are not prudent.” “In this new era we are living we should take the sustainability of public finances very seriously…because spending will be necessary to support the vulnerable who are hit by the energy crisis,” Petrides said addressing the Summit’s afternoon session.
18.10.2022 – Trade and business links between two Cyprus communities help revitalise hope for peace talks, says Colin Stewart
Nothing will do more for bringing the island together than expanding trade and business links and providing the infrastructure to support them, said on Tuesday, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, Colin Stewart. In his keynote speech at the 18th Economist Summit, taking place in Nicosia, Stewart, referred to the importance of trade and business links between the two communities on the island towards reviving hope for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem.
18.10.2022 – Eurostat: Youth unemployment in Cyprus at 14.2% in 2021 compared to 13% in the EU
The youth (people aged 15–29 years) unemployment rate in the European Union fell to 13.0% in 2021, from 13.3% in 2020, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. In Cyprus, which is considered a single NUTS 2 region for statistics purposes, youth unemployment in 2021 rose to 14.2%, above the EU average, from 13.3% in 2020.
18.10.2022 – Cyprus submits draft budgetary plan for 2023 to the EU
Cyprus submitted its draft budgetary plan for 2023 to the European Commission and the European Council featuring an upward revision for economic growth this year, followed by a slower growth in 2023. According to the plan, real growth in 2022 is estimated to reach 5.5% of GDP compared with the previous projection of 2.7% in last April.
18.10.2022 – EU should focus on protecting energy infrastructure, FM says at General Affairs Council
Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides underlined that the European Union needs to focus on the protection of both existing and future energy infrastructure during Tuesday’s meeting of the General Affairs Council in Luxembourg, according to a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. EU Ministers responsible for European affairs focused on the preparation of the European Council meeting which will take place Thursday and Friday 20th – 21st October and will focus on the energy crisis and the situation in Ukraine.
18.10.2022 – World must condemn Putin’s acts of aggression to protect global energy and food security, Olson says
The world must condemn Vladimir Putin’s acts of aggression so that he can no longer jeopardize global energy and food security, said Erika Olson, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Southern Europe and the Caucasus, on Tuesday during the Economist Summit held in Nicosia. Olson began her live online intervention noting that the US is proud to stand steadfast in its support for the people of Ukraine, characterising the recent attacks on civilian centres especially brutal.
19.10.2022 – Construction materials prices up annually by 16.24% in September
Construction materials prices recorded an increase of 16.24% on an annual basis this September, data released by the Cyprus Statistical Service show. In particular, according, the Price Index of Construction Materials for September 2022 reached 134.55 units (base year 2015=100), recording a marginal increase of 0.16% compared to the previous month.
19.10.2022 – Harmonised consumer prices index up by 8.1% in first nine months of this year
The harmonised consumer prices index was up by 8.1% in the first nine months of this year compared to the first nine months of 2021, data released on Wednesday by the Cyprus Statistical Service (CyStat) show. In particular, in September 2022 the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices increased by 9.0% compared to the index of September 2021.
19.10.2022 – EP calls on European Council to take action on energy, food crisis and climate change at upcoming summit
The Plenary of the European Parliament called on the European Council, ahead of the Summit on October 20th and 21st, to reach decisive measures to deal with the energy crisis, the food crisis and climate change. In a discussion on the preparation of the Summit, Mikuláš Bek, Minister of European Affairs of the Czech Republic, representing the Presidency of the European Council, said that during the Summit Russia’s attack on Ukraine, the impact on food security, the energy crisis and economy will be discussed.
19.10.2022 – UN Special Representative and EU official Mario Nava discuss Cyprus settlement
Colin Stewart, the UN Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, met on Wednesday with Mario Nava, European Commission’s Director General of the Department of Structural Reform Support. A post on twitter by the UN in Cyprus says that Stewart and Nava had a friendly and productive meeting in support of an inclusive and mutually acceptable settlement for the island of Cyprus.
19.10.2022 – Cetinkaya’s pitch status has not changed, it will be used for football practice under strict regulations, UNFICYP says
Any suggestion that the status of Cetinkaya’s pitch “Taksim” has changed, is wrong and misleading, UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) spokesperson Aleem Siddique has told CNA. Siddique also said that “the site will be used for football practice only, as it has been used in the past, with strict regulations in place to manage its use and protect its status within the buffer zone.”
19.10.2022 – Eurostat estimates show further small drop in production in construction in the EU in August
Seasonally adjusted production in the construction sector decreased by 0.6% in the euro area and by 0.4% in the European Union in August 2022 compared with July 2022, and increased by 2.3% in the euro area and by 2.8% in the EU compared to August 2021, according to first estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In July 2022, production in construction had increased by 0.3% in the euro area and by 0.2% in the EU compared to June.
19.10.2022 – Building permits bounce back in 2021 in Cyprus and EU after pandemic according to Eurostat
In 2021, building permits in terms of useful floor area went up by 15% in the EU according to data released by Eurostat, the statistic service of the European Union. Eurostat measures trends in building permits in terms of useful floor area, measured in millions of square metres (mio m²). In absolute terms, the 15% increase recorded in the EU corresponds to an increase of 52 mio m².
19.10.2022 – MEPs reverse nearly all cuts made by the Council in EU budget for 2023 vote
MEPs reversed nearly all cuts made by the Council, which amounted to over €1.6 billion and thereby restored the draft budget to the level originally proposed by the Commission, in their vote on EU’s budget for 2023 on Wednesday, during the Plenary meeting in Strasbourg. In addition, MEPs increased funding for the consequences of the war in Ukraine, energy and climate, health and culture.
19.10.2022 – Daphne Caruana Galizia Journalism award winner, reporting on Russia’s influence in the Central African Republic, spoke to CNA
Carol Valade and Clément Di Roma, foreign correspondents at Bangui, for ARTE/Le Monde, won the European journalism award Daphne Caruana Galizia for 2022. The winners were announced at the awards ceremony held on Wednesday in Strasbourg, on the sidelines of the Plenary of the European Parliament.
19.10.2022 – President will draw attention to Turkey’s non-alignment with EU sanctions on Russia
Cyprus is ready to play its own role in ensuring Europe’s continued energy security, President Nicos Anastasiades will tell his counterparts during Thursday’s and Friday’s summit of the European Council in Brussels, government spokesperson Marios Pelekanos says in a statement. The spokesperson notes that the President will reiterate that, by not implementing EU sanctions against Russia, Turkey is not only gaining economic benefits, but at the same time undermining the Union’s efforts to exert pressure on Russia to end the war as soon as possible, which is a matter that they will have to address.
19.10.2022 – Cyprus Ambassador presents his credentials to President of Latvia
The new Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Latvia Solon Savva, presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Latvia Egils Levits, at a ceremony held Wednesday at the Riga Castle. An announcement says that during the private meeting that followed, the Ambassador expressed his readiness and commitment to further strengthen and deepen the relations between the two countries and their cooperation, both at the bilateral level, as well as in international fora.
20.10.2022 – CMP Greek Cypriot member holds meetings in US on missing persons in Cyprus
The representative of the Greek Cypriot Community in the Committee of Missing Persons in Cyprus (CMP), Leonidas Pantelides held a series of meetings at the United Nations on the issue of missing persons. Pantelides met with the permanent representative of Turkey, Feridun Sinirlioglu, the permanent representative of Cyprus, Andreas Hadjichrysanthou, the permanent representative of Greece, Maria Theofili, and the representative of the Turkish Cypriot community, Mehmet Dana.
20.10.2022 – Annual inflation rate at 9.0% in Cyprus, 9.9% in the eurozone and 10.9% in the EU, according to Eurostat
The euro area annual inflation rate was 9.9% in September 2022, up from 9.1% in August and up from 3.4% a year earlier, according to figures published by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In Cyprus, the annual inflation rate in September was at 9.0%, a little under the eurozone and EU averages.
20.10.2022 – Work accidents decreased in 2020, however severity of almost half in Cyprus not specified, according to Eurostat
In 2020, almost 2.7 million non-fatal work accidents resulted in workers being absent from work for four days or more in the EU, while 3,355 work-related accidents were fatal, according to data released by Eurostat, the European Union’s statistical service. In Cyprus, there was a total of 1,527 work accidents in 2020, compared with 2,168 in 2019, and 16 fatal accidents compared to 10 the year before.
20.10.2022 – The status quo affects the rights of all Cypriots, said deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Gabriella Michaelidou
Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Gabriella Michaelidou, in a statement to the 3rd Committee of the 77th Session of the General Assembly, on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights said the status quo in Cyprus affects the rights and freedoms of all Cypriots. She said that for the 48th consecutive year, Cyprus will raise the continuous violations of individual and collective human rights and fundamental freedoms of Cypriots, that stem from Turkey’s invasion and ongoing occupation of 37% of Cyprus.
20.10.2022 – Commission and Goethe Institute open new office for the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community
The European Commission and the Goethe Institute inaugurated the new office of the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, according to a press release. The new building is located in the Turkish-occupied part of Nicosia, and will be open to the public. n and launch of the call for proposals for the academic year 2023-2024.
20.10.2022 – Cyprus MFA asks UN for postponement of works at Cetinkaya’s pitch
The Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a letter to UNFICYP on Thursday asking for an immediate postponement of works taking place at Cetinkaya’s pitch, in the buffer zone, according to a tweet posted by Spokesperson of MFA Demetris Demetriou. Yesterday UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) spokesperson Aleem Siddique told the Cyprus News Agency that any suggestion that the status of Cetinkaya’s pitch “Taksim” has changed, is wrong and misleading.
20.10.2022 – Cyprus absorbed 80% of its European funds in 2021, is a net recipient of €461 mln since accession, Lazarou says
Cyprus absorbed 80% of its European funds in 2021, is a net recipient of €461 mln since accession, Lazarou says Member of the European Court of Auditors, Lazaros Lazarou said Thursday that Cyprus has absorbed 80% of its European funds for the programming period 2014-2020, adding that between 2004 -when the country became a full EU member state-until the end of 2021, Cyprus is a net recipient of approximately 461 million euro. The ECA member was speaking at the joint meeting of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Financial and Budgetary Affairs and the Committee on Development Plans and Public Expenditure Control where he presented his 2021 annual report. Lazarou, whose term in office ends on the 1st of November, said that Cyprus is doing very well in terms of absorption of funds adding that until the end of September the percentage reached around 80% of the absorption for the previous programming period 2014 – 2020.
20.10.2022 – Government spokesperson satisfied by reference to Turkey and Serbia in a statement by leaders of the EPP
Government spokesperson Marios Pelekanos said in a written statement that Cyprus is satisfied by the specific reference made to Turkey and Serbia and their obligation to align with EU sanctions against Russia in the joint statement issued by the leaders of the European People’s Party before the beginning of the European Council in Brussels. “We are particularly pleased with the content of the statement issued at the end of today’s meeting of the European People’s Party”, Pelekanos said.
21.10.2022 – Founder of “Oxygono” NGO Nicolas Kyriakides receives European Citizen’s Prize 2022 in Cyprus
The European Parliament’s European Citizen’s Prize 2022 was awarded on Friday in Cyprus to the founder of the non-government organization, “Oxygono”, Nicolas Kyriakides. The Prize was awarded by Cypriot MEP, Loucas Fourlas, during a ceremony at the EU House, in Nicosia, in the presence of EU member states Ambassadors and officials of the European Commission Representation and the European Parliament Office in Cyprus. Delivering a speech, Kyriakides said that the prize is not a personal one, but is awarded to “Oxygono” and its projects, the “Cyprus Forum” and the “Nomoplatform” – an electronic legislative watchdog aiming to the increase of transparency. “Therefore, it is awarded to the dozens of people who have been working for these projects,” he added.
21.10.2022 – Cyprus will argue for comprehensive approach to sanction circumvention prevention, pointing to Turkey, government spokesperson said from Brussels
President Anastasiades is expected during the second day of the summit of the European Council in Brussels to argue for a more comprehensive approach to the goal of preventing practices of sanctions circumvention, including by Turkey, government spokesperson Marios Pelekanos said in a statement. Pelekanos also referred to the agreement reached by the 27 leaders on Thursday night to reduce energy prices, and noted that President Anastasiades expressed his satisfaction with what has been agreed, that Cyprus is in favour of maximum European solidarity and that he highlighted the role that the Eastern Mediterranean can play in ensuring Europe’s energy supply. Referring to the agenda of the second day of the summit, the government spokesperson referred to the points that President Anastasiades was expected to raise during the discussion.
21.10.2022 – The European Commission welcomes the efforts of the TCCH in advancing the digitalisation of cultural heritage of Cyprus
The European Commission welcomes the efforts of the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH) in advancing the digitalisation of cultural heritage of Cyprus. A Commission’s press release says that the recovery and reconstruction of cultural heritage is an important step towards the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms of the affected communities.
21.10.2022 – Foreign Minister makes strong representations to head of UNFICYP
Minister of Foreign Affairs Ioannis Kasoulides made on Friday strong and strict representations to the head of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), Colin Stewart. A press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that the representations were made by telephone since it was not practically possible for Stewart to hold a tete -a -tete meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
21.10.2022 – President Anastasiades says next steps should be taken on dealing with circumvention of EU sanctions
President Anastasiades said in a tweet after the end of the second day of the summit of the European Council in Brussels that the European Union must take further steps towards dealing with the issue of the circumvention of sanctions, and made particular reference to Turkey’s role. “Just finished a constructive debate on Ukraine #EUCO. Had the opportunity to again refer to circumvention of sanctions by third countries” Anastasiades wrote.
21.10.2022 – We are proud to deliver this economy to the next government during these challenging times, Finance Minister says
Through a responsible stance and with a prudent fiscal policy, we hand over to the next government an economy that has the reserves to address the great challenges we are living in, Finance Minister Constantinos Petrides stressed Friday at the 13th Limassol Economic Forum. In his speech, Petrides analyzed the factors that have led Europe and the whole world to inflation and rising prices, such as the cost of the green transition and the war in Ukraine, and said that there are “tectonic changes in the economic field” and a new era that has come to change everything we have known until now and that has led to “uncharted waters”.
21.10.2022 – Europe needs to strengthen its autonomy, says House President
The consequences of the current geopolitical instability must wake up Europe to strengthen its autonomy and review its policies and strategies for a sustainable economic future, Acting President of the Republic, House President, Annita Demetriou, said on Friday. Speaking at the 13th Limassol Economic Forum, Demetriou said that Europe has faced many economic crises, with the COVID-19 pandemic being one of the biggest, proving how fragile health systems are in Europe and the rest of the world, but also the necessity for cooperation in major crises.
21.10.2022 – Fiscal deficit at €408 mln in 2021 while fiscal debt reached 101% of GDP
Fiscal deficit reached €408 mln in 2021 and the fiscal debt corresponded to 101% of GDP, the Statistical Service announced on Friday. Announcing the fiscal results for 2021, audited and verified within the Excessive Deficit Procedure framework of the European Commission, the Statistical Service said they indicated a fiscal deficit of €408 mln, which corresponds to 1.7% of GDP and a fiscal debt of €24,271 mln, which corresponds to 101% of GDP.
22.10.2022 – President Anastasiades visits Archbishop and wishes him well on fragile health condition
Cyprus President, Nicos Anastasiades, visited on Saturday Archbishop, Chrysostomos II, and wished him well, after his health condition deteriorated the past few days. Replying to questions by the press after the short visit to the Archbishop’s Palace the President said that Chrysostomos asked if there are any developments regarding the Cyprus issue.
22.10.2022 – Capital Intelligence upgrades Cyprus’ sovereign ratings, outlook revised to stable
Capital Intelligence Ratings (CI Ratings or CI) has announced that it has upgraded the Republic of Cyprus’ Long-Term Foreign Currency Rating (LT FCR) and Short-Term Foreign Currency Rating (ST FCR) to ‘BBB-’ and ‘A3’, respectively, from ‘BB+’ and ‘B’. At the same time, CI Ratings has revised the Outlook on the ratings to Stable from Positive. In a press release it says that the upgrade reflects the demonstrated resilience of the economy and improving fiscal fundamentals, with both the budget deficit and general government debt returning more quickly than expected to a sustainable path.
22.10.2022 – Cyprus’ Minister of Foreign Affairs congratulates new Italian FM
Cyprus’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ioannis Kasoulides, congratulated on Saturday the new Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani. Kasoulides wrote on his twitter account that he looks forward to working with Tajani to strengthen bilateral partnership and seek further synergies as EU Mediterranean countries. “Congratulations to the newly appointed Foreign Minister & Deputy PM of Italy & good friend Antonio_Tajani, Look forward to working with you to strengthen our bilateral partnership & seek further synergies as Mediterranean countries within the #EU,” he wrote.
22.10.2022 – President Anastasiades congratulates new Prime Minister of Italy
President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades congratulated Saturday the new Prime Minister of Italy, saying that he looks forward to working together within the European family. “Congratulations to Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s new Prime Minister. We look forward to working together within the European family and for the benefit of our common Mediterranean region and the people of our two countries” the President wrote on his twitter account.
23.10.2022 – Unity needed for efforts to find a solution to the Cyprus issue, says Interior Minister
Interior Minister, Nicos Nouris, said on Saturday that our constant and unchangeable goal is to continue in unity to work for a solution to the Cyprus problem that will truly reunite our homeland and its people and create positive prospects for the future. Speaking during an inauguration event of the Museum of Cultural Heritage of Agios Andronikos and the Traditional Silk Art Education Center in Kolossi, Limassol, the Minister noted that the solution must safeguard the territorial integrity and sovereignty of our homeland and must respect the international law and the European acquis, and furthermore must lead to the termination of the anachronistic guarantee treaties and the presence of Turkish occupying forces.
24.10.2022 – Equal Distribution of Burden Agency forwards 1,486 loan restructuring requests to Housing Finance Corporation
There are 1,486 approved loan restructuring requests, which were forwarded to the Housing Finance Corporation (HFC), the Director of the Central Agency for Equal Distribution of Burden (KFIKB), Loukia Efstathiou, told CNA, noting at the same time that an additional 597 borrowers submitted a repayment request of their loan, while 975 potential beneficiaries did not display interest for a Finance Ministry Plan to manage terminated, expired or non-performing loans. At the same time, Efstathiou underlined that the interest rate of loans given with funds from the Agency will remain at 1%, despite the continuous rises of interest rates by the European Central Bank, while by decision of the Council of Ministers, a final extension was given for the completion of the process of restructurings related to the Plan, with the deadline set for March 31st, 2023.
24.10.2022 – Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs pays working visit to Cyprus
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Péter Szijjártó, pays a working visit to Cyprus on Monday, a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says. As part of the visit, he will have a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ioannis Kasoulides, while further consultations will follow with the participation of delegations from the two Ministries of Foreign Affairs, in the context of a working lunch.
24.10.2022 – Finance Minister describes 2023 budget a responsible one, not a pre-election budget
Minister of Finance Constantinos Petrides said the state budget for 2023 is not deemed as a pre-election one, noting it is a responsible budget. Presenting the budget at the House Finance Committee, he said the government did not exploit the budget for pre-election purposes, therefore it is bombarded on a daily basis with false figures, he said. Petrides said that it is a responsible budget that aims for recovery, has increased development expenditure by 12% and at the same time maintains healthy finances, respecting future generations.
24.10.2022 – President discusses Cyprus problem, migration, climate change, Lebanon and Ukraine with Pope Francis
The Cyprus problem, migration, climate change, Lebanon and the war in Ukraine were among the topics discussed during a meeting on Monday between Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Pope Francis A’ at the Vatican. President Anastasiades, who was officially welcomed at the Apostolic Palace and had meetings with Pope Francis and Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin said afterwards in statements that he feels honoured to have had a meeting with Pope.
24.10.2022 – Agricultural Payments Commissioner discusses need for quicker handling of subsidy applications with head of DG AGRI
The issue of the large number of subsidy applications for small farms was one of the topics discussed in Brussels between the head of the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organisation (CAPO) Andreas Kyprianou and the Commission’s Director General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI) Christina Borchmann, according to a CAPO press release. Kyprianou referred, among other things, to the problems Cyprus faces in terms of the large number of small plots applying for subsidies to CAPO. Kyprianou added that there is a need for a faster and more functional way of handling applications so that they can be processed quickly and without delays, reducing the hassle experienced by applicants.
24.10.2022 – Annual meeting of European auditors of cohesion funds convenes in Cyprus
Issues related to the co-financing of EU member states and the control over European programs were on the agenda of the 29th annual meeting of European auditors of cohesion funds which began Monday in the coastal city of Paphos, Cyprus with the participation of 160 delegates, among them the top executives of audit authorities from member states, directorates of the European Commission and the European Court of Auditors. The meeting is co-organized by the Internal Audit Service of the Republic of Cyprus and the European Commission. Cyprus House President Annita Demetriou delivered a welcoming speech.
24.10.2022 – Cyprus’ gas fields can be significant part of solution for energy crisis in Europe, Hungarian FM says
Cyprus’ gas fields can be significant part of the solution to the energy crisis in Europe, said Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Péter Szijjártó, after his meeting with his Cypriot counterpart, Ioannis Kasoulides, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday. ‘We need more gas to be delivered to Europe on more delivery routes.
24.10.2022 – Eurostat: Use of e-commerce in Cyprus under EU average, but internet banking and use of social media above average
In 2021, 54% of the population of Cyprus and 67% of the EU population (16-74 years old) bought/ordered goods or services over the internet during the 12 months prior to the survey, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. According to the same data, 65% of the population in Cyprus and 58% of the EU population used the internet for banking during the three months prior to the survey, while 79% of the population in Cyprus and 57% of the EU population participated in social networks during the three months prior to the latest survey. Regarding the percentages of people that bought or ordered goods or services online in the year before the survey across the EU, the share reached a peak of 93% in three Dutch regions (Drenthe, Utrecht and Zeeland).
24.10.2022 – Increased interest income should not derail banks from addressing structural vulnerabilities, CBC Governor says
Increased interest revenue stemming from the monetary policy normalization should not overshadow the Cypriot banks’ structural vulnerabilities, Constantinos Herodotou, Governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) said on Monday. Speaking to the parliamentary committee on Financial and Budgetary Affairs, Herodotou said that Cypriot banks are expected to have significant increase in interest income due to the European Central Bank’s interest rate hikes.
25.10.2022 – President Anastasiades receives the highest honour of the Holy See
Pope Francis awarded the Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades the Necklace of the Order of Knights of Pope Pius IX, which is the highest honour of the Holy See. According to a Presidency’s press release, in a special ceremony that took place on Monday, as part of an official dinner hosted by the Ambassador of the Republic to the Holy See, Giorgos Poulides, the Prime Minister of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, awarded on behalf of Pope Francis, the Necklace of the Order of Pope Pius IX to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, in the presence of senior officials of the Vatican.
25.10.2022 – Foreign Minister discusses Cyprus problem with French Ambassador
Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides met on Tuesday morning with French Ambassador to Cyprus, Salina Grenet-Catalano and discussed the Cyprus problem, the French Ambassador posted on Twitter. According to Grenet-Catalano, she had a “timely meeting this morning with Ioannis Kasoulides, centered on the Cyprus problem.”
25.10.2022 – Permanent Secretary of Agriculture Ministry briefed the Environment Council of the EU about Cyprus’ regional initiative
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Andreas Gregoriou briefed the Environment Council of the EU on the Cypriot regional initiative on climate change in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean and the associated planned meetings on the sidelines of COP27. According to an announcement, the work of the meeting of EU ministers responsible for environment issues was devoted to the discussion on the Council conclusions that will constitute the EU’s general negotiating mandate ahead of the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) to be held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, on 6-18 November, as well as the 15th Conference on Biodiversity (COP15) to be held in Montreal, Canada, on 7-19 December.
25.10.2022 – Commission issues preliminary assessment of Cyprus’ request for €85 million disbursement under the RRF
The European Commission on Tuesday endorsed a positive preliminary assessment of Cyprus’ payment request for €85 million in grants under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), while Cyprus lost €90 million in grants due to better-than-expected economic performance during the Covid-19 pandemic. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said: “I have good news for Cyprus.” “Sufficient progress has been made in the rollout of its recovery and resilience plan to receive a first payment under NextGenerationEU.
25.10.2022 – Proposals on managing gas prices must be thoroughly examined, Pelides stressed during EU Energy Ministers meeting in Luxembourg
The proposed regulation on controlling the rise of energy prices must be thoroughly studied to ensure that it is in line with wider EU policies, Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister, Natasa Pelides, said during the meeting of the Energy Council of the European Union in Luxembourg on Tuesday. EU Energy Ministers did not reach an agreement during Tuesday’s meeting, but agreed on the main direction of the measures and asked the Commission to develop the technical details of the proposals ahead of their next extraordinary meeting set for November 24th.
25.10.2022 – New incident between Greek Cypriot farmer and Turkish military in Deneia Tuesday
Head of community council of the village of Deneia, in Nicosia district, Christakis Panayiotou protested a new incident which took place Tuesday between Greek Cypriot farmers and Turkish soldiers, adding that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Guard have been notified and a visit to the area is expected Wednesday or Thursday. UNIFICYP, replying to a request by the Cyprus News Agency to comment, said that its presence averted anything worse from happening.
26.10.2022 – Over 9,000 applications since the beginning of the year as part of the New Strategy to attract businesses, officials say
From January 2022 when the New Strategy for Attracting Businesses and Talents came into force and until the end of September 2022, the Civil Registry and Migration Department received 9090 applications from foreign companies, while it has already examined more than 97% of these applications, officials said on Tuesday at an event organized by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEBE) in Paphos. Interest in residence permits for “digital nomads” is also on the rise, with authorities increasing the quota from from 100 to 500 due to the “popularity” of the scheme.
26.10.2022 – Cypriot MPs take part in meeting of Europol Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group in Brussels
Three Cypriot MPs discussed issues related to policing in the European Union member states during the 11th meeting of the Europol Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group (Europol JPSG) which concluded on Tuesday in Brussels, according to a statement issued by the House of Representatives. Cyprus was represented by Nicosia MP Demetris Demetriou (DISY) and Pafos MPs Elias Myrianthous (EDEK) and Chrysanthos Savvides (DIKO).
26.10.2022 – House President discusses Cyprus problem, interparliamentary relations and Ukraine during her contacts in Zagreb
On Wednesday, the President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou had a series of contacts in Zagreb, during the First Parliamentary Summit of the International Platform for Crimea. Among other issues, she discussed with her interlocutors the Cyprus problem, interparliamentary relations and Nicosia’s support to Ukraine.
26.10.2022 – Government freezes examination of new off-budget claims ahead of February presidential elections
The Council of Ministers decided to freeze any new off-budget claims and requests from November 1 until the end of the presidential elections set to take place next February with a view to preserve fiscal discipline and avert any possible electoral influence of the public opinion, Finance Minister Constantinos Petrides said on Wednesday. The cabinet decisions follow’s President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades’ announcement during an address in the Economist Summit on October 18.
26.10.2022 – Foreign Minister and Israeli Ambassador discuss ways to strengthen bilateral partnership
Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides held a meeting on Wednesday with Israeli Ambassador in Cyprus, Oren Anolik. The Israeli Ambassador wrote on his twitter account that they discussed ways to further strengthen Israel – Cyprus bilateral partnership as well as their energy and economic cooperation. “It was a great pleasure & privilege to host Foreign Minister Kasoulides for lunch. We reviewed regional developments and discussed ways to further strengthen Israel – Cyprus bilateral partnership & friendship, as well as our energy and economic cooperation”, the Ambassador of Israel wrote.
26.10.2022 – Cyprus trade deficit at €4.4 mn in first seven months of 2022
The trade deficit in January – July 2022 was €4.4 mn compared to €3.2 mn in the corresponding period of 2021, according to the final data released on Wednesday by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. According to its publication “Intra & Extra EU Trade Statistics”, the European Union was the main source of supply of goods to Cyprus with a share of €3.952,7 mn of total imports, while imports from all other European countries totalled €624.4 mn in January – July 2022.
26.10.2022 – US Ambassador says Cyprus has come a long way in restoring reputation over anti-money laundering issues
The Republic of Cyprus has come a long way in dealing with anti-corruption and Anti-money laundering (AML) issues, making important strides in restoring the Republic of Cyprus’ reputation, said US Ambassador to Cyprus, Judith Garber speaking on Tuesday at EY’s Cyprus Attractiveness Forum. She added however that “doubts linger in many corners” and told the audience that “as businessmen, you understand once trust is broken, it’s difficult to restore”.
26.10.2022 – Cyprus problem is a top national issue for Greece, Sakellaropoulou says
President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou referred to the Cyprus problem and the intensification of Turkish provocations, among other issues, during her visit to Thessaloniki, on the occasion of the anniversary of the city’s liberation and the celebration of its patron saint Ayios Demetrios. Speaking at the lunch served in her honor at the Officers’ Club of Thessaloniki Guard, Sakellaropoulou noted that the Cyprus problem is a “top national issue”.
27.10.2022 – Support for a peaceful solution to the Cyprus problem remains firm, says Hungarian Ambassador at event with Foreign Minister
Hungary’s Ambassador to Greece and Cyprus, Erik Haupt, referred to the excellent relations between Cyprus and Hungary, as well as the systematic strengthening of bilateral cooperation, while noting his country’s firm support for the efforts for a peaceful resolution of the Cyprus problem. For his part, Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides expressed his gratitude for Hungary’s contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
27.10.2022 – Tourist beds in EU slightly decreased in 2021 compared to 2019, number remained stable in Cyprus according to Eurostat
The number of bed places in tourist establishments across the European Union decreased slightly in 2021 compared to 2019, but remained stable compared to 2020, according to data published by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. In 2021, the EU had an estimated total of 28.1 million bed places available across 597 000 tourist establishments. Italy and France accounted for slightly more than one third of the total available capacity, with 5.1 million bed places each. These Member States were followed by Spain (3.8 million bed places, representing 13% of the total) and Germany (3.5 million; 12%).
27.10.2022 – ?bsorption of co-financed Cohesion Policy Programs 2014-2020 to reach 100%
Cyprus will manage to absorb 100% of the co-financed Cohesion Policy Programs 2014-2020. According to a press release by the Ministry of Finance, a joint meeting was held on Wednesday in Pafos between the members of the Monitoring Committees on the progress of the implementation of the Programs co-financed by the EU Cohesion Policy Funds about the programs “Competitiveness and Sustainable Development 2014-2020”, “Employment, Human Resources and Social Cohesion 2014-2020” and “THALEIA 2021-2027”.
27.10.2022 – Economic sentiment in Cyprus improves in October due to services and retail trade
In October 2022, economic sentiment in Cyprus improved as the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI-CypERC) increased by 0.4 points compared with September 2022. According to a press release by the Economic Research Center of the University of Cyprus, the marginal increase in the ESI-CypERC was driven by confidence gains in services and retail trade. The Services Confidence Indicator rose for the second month in a row, mainly as a result of more optimistic views on turnover over the next three months.
27.10.2022 – CBC sets reference rate for usury purposes to 9.40%
The Central Bank of Cyprus has set the reference interest rate at 9.40% under the article 314A of the Cyprus Penal Code, Cap. 154 to combat usury. The previous reference rate was set at 8.93%. Under the article 314A, the maximum permissible rate of interest, known as the reference rate, is set by the Central Bank of Cyprus on a quarterly basis.
27.10.2022 – Industrial production in Cyprus marks annual reduction for second month in a row in August
Industrial Production in Cyprus marked an annual reduction for a second consecutive month in August, driven by a decline in the electricity supply sector. According to data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat), the Industrial Production Index reached 118.8 units in August (base 2015=100), recording a decrease of 1.7% compared to August 2021.
27.10.2022 – Fuel sales in Cyprus rise marginally in September, sales from fuel pumps drop for fourth consecutive month
Total sales of petroleum products in Cyprus rose marginally in September, with sales from fuel pumps declining for four consecutive months amid high fuel prices. According to data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat) in September 2022, the total sales of petroleum products amounted to 128,379 tonnes, recording an increase of 0.9% year on year. Increases were recorded in the provisions of aviation kerosene (19.7%), as well as in the sales of light fuel oil (27.5%), bitumen (3.6%) and liquefied petroleum gases (1.4%).
27.10.2022 – We will continue to support the efforts to resume negotiations, Spokesman says
Government Spokesperson Marios Pelekanos said on Thursday that Cyprus will continue to support the efforts to resume negotiations for a solution of the Cyprus problem within the framework of the UNSC resolutions. Speaking at an event marking the national anniversary of the 28th of October 1940, Pelekanos said that the current situation compels us to continue diplomatic efforts to reunify our island, taking advantage of our country’s strategic position as a European pillar of stability and security with the states and peoples of the region.
27.10.2022 – House of Commons event underlines need for Cyprus reunification
The withdrawal of the Turkish occupying forces from Cyprus and the return of the refugees to their homes was underlined during an event organised on Tuesday at the House of Commons by the Famagusta Association of Great Britain, under the auspices of the Cyprus Federation and in collaboration with All-Party Parliamentary Groups. Head of the Famagusta Association Dr. Vassilis Mavrou said that Famagusta in particular and Cyprus as a whole cannot be forgotten saying that occupation is wound in the souls and hearts of all refugees from Famagusta. Dr. Mavrou also stated that Britain, as a guarantor, must fulfill its obligations towards Cyprus adding that all decision-making fora and bodies must urgently appeal for the withdrawal of the Turkish occupying forces and the return of all refugees to their properties.
27.10.2022 – Russia does not change its position on the Cyprus issue, Zakharova tells CNA
Russia’s stance on the Cyprus issue has not changed and we remain committed to the UN Security Council resolutions, Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Maria Zakharova has told CNA, adding that “unlike the collective West” Moscow does not think with “revenge” or “punishment”. Zakharova was asked to clarify her country’s position on the issue of direct flights between Russia and the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus.
28.10.2022 – Turkey rejected a proposal to take EEZ delineation to the Hague, President says commenting on Ankara’s statement following Israeli-Lebanese agreement
Turkey has rejected our proposal to take the delineation of the exclusive economic zone between the two countries to The Hague, President Nicos Anastasiades said on Friday, when asked to comment on Ankara’s position on the Israeli-Lebanese maritime agreement. Following a church mass for the anniversary of 28th of October, at the Apostle Varnavas cathedral, in Nicosia, the President was invited by the press to comment on the announcement of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the Israel-Lebanon agreement is a good precedent for the case of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
28.10.2022 – Cyprus special envoy discusses maritime delimitation with Lebanese President, says any problem can be easily resolved
“There is no problem between Lebanon and Cyprus that cannot be resolved easily,” Cypriot special envoy Tasos Tzionis, said on Friday after meeting with outgoing Lebanese President Michel Aoun, to discuss maritime delimitation. According to Reuters, the Cypriot delegation in Lebanon on Friday for talks on maritime border delineation between the two countries said any disputes during that process could be easily resolved. Lebanon and Cyprus reached a maritime border agreement in 2007 but it was never ratified by Lebanon’s parliament and therefore never went into force, the report adds. Cyprus delineated its maritime exclusive economic zone vis-a-vis Israel in 2010.
29.10.2022 – Cyprus, Greece and Armenia enhance cooperation on Diaspora at trilateral meeting in Yerevan
A Trilateral Meeting held in Armenia, in the presence of the Presidential Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Overseas Cypriots, Photis Photiou, confirmed the common will to strengthen the cooperation of Cyprus, Greece and Armenia on Diaspora issues, an announcement issued Friday by the Presidency of the Republic says. Photiou participated in the Trilateral Meeting as part of an official visit to Armenia, representing the Government at the World Congress of the Armenian Diaspora, in Yerevan, it is added.
29.10.2022 – War in Ukraine should accelerate the green transition 76% of Cypriots believe, according to EIB climate survey
The majority of Cypriots are in favour of accelerating the green transition, with 76% responding that the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its consequences should provide an additional impetus (compared to 66% in the EU), according to the results of the latest annual climate survey by the European Investment Bank (EIB), which was conducted across the European Union in August and published this week. Other findings in Cyprus include that 90% of Cypriots say that if consumption of energy and goods is not drastically reduced in the coming years the world will head to a global catastrophe, 65% said that they are in favour of indexing energy prices to the level of consumption per household and 60% said that they believe that highly polluting goods and services, such as sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and air travel, should be more expensive to account for their level of pollution.
29.10.2022 – Cyprus and Armenia explore new areas of cooperation, Presidential Commissioner tells Global Armenian Diaspora Summit
Presidential Commissioner Photis Photiou stressed the “brotherly relations” between Cyprus, Greece and Armenia, while addressing the Global Armenian Summit on Diaspora Issues, held in Yerevan. He said the summit “provides a unique opportunity for all participants to hold productive discussions and identify ways and means for discussing challenges and problems of universal importance for Diaspora Representatives and their local counterparts.” He also said that with Armenia they are exploring new areas of cooperation, to complement the existing one.
29.10.2022 – Ascertaining the fate of missing persons a matter of duty and responsibility, President says
The Day of Missing Persons, the Republic of Cyprus marks on October 29th, reminds us of the duty and responsibility to correctly ascertain the fate of each person who went missing, says the President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades. “Despite our intense efforts for 48 years, hundreds of Cypriots remain missing”, the President wrote in a post on Twitter. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory.
29.10.2022 – Cypriot diplomatic missions active at highlighting Turkish provocations, MFA spokesperson tells CNA
Heads of Cyprus’ diplomatic missions abroad are taking steps in order to highlight Turkish provocations, Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Demetris Demetriou, told CNA. Referring to yesterday’s statement by the President of the Republic that all the necessary steps are taken in every direction, “the Secretary General of the United Nations not excluded”, Demetriou said the missions were engaged in horizontal diplomatic steps, towards all countries and governments, in order to “highlight Turkish provocations and actions Turkey engages in, at the expense of Cyprus, but also to take initiatives in order to prevent further attempts aiming to create a fait accompli.”
30.10.2022 – Cyprus MFA expresses condolences for the tragic death of people in Seoul, during Halloween celebration
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus expresses its condolences to the Government and the people of South Korea, after the tragic death of more than 150 people in a stampede, during Halloween celebration on Saturday evening in Seoul. “Shocked and saddened by the tragedy in Seoul where more than 150 people were killed while celebrating Halloween in Itaewon”, reads the Tweet by the Cyprus MFA.
30.10.2022 – Our side ready for settlement talks any time, Minister says
The Greek Cypriot side is any time ready to take part in talks for a Cyprus settlement, on the basis of the parameters set by the UN Secretary-General, in line with his mandate by the Security Council, Minister of Transport, Yiannis Karousos, said on Sunday, while recalling that this has been conveyed by Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades, both in writing as well as in person to Antonio Guterres. Addressing a memorial service in Troulloi, Larnaca, Karousos also said that Turkey’s proposal for two-state solution is unacceptable.
31.10.2022 – Domestic bonds yields rise significantly in the context of the ECB rate hikes
Yields of the Cypriot bonds issued domestically rose significantly in the last months, reflecting the policy rate hikes of the European Central Bank (ECB) in its effort to curb soaring inflation. Cypriot 13-week Treasury Bills for October 2022 weighted average yield rose to 1.62% from 1.08% the previous month and just 0,42% in the August auction.
31.10.2022 – Household debt at 81% of GDP at the end of June
Household debt stood at 20.1 billion euros at the end of June 2022 with the relative debt ratio standing at 81% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), showing a slight decrease compared to the previous quarter due to GDP growth. Compared to December 2016, the household debt index shows an important decrease, reaching 35%.
31.10.2022 – Impact of sanctions against Russia on Cypriot shipping “totally manageable,” says DepMin for Shipping
The impact taken by the European Union against Russia on Cyprus’ shipping industry are “totaly manageable,” Deputy Minister for Shipping Vassilis Demetriades has said. Briefing the parliamentary committee of finance and budgetary affairs on the Deputy Ministry’s budget for 2023, Demetriades said that 144 ships have been delisted from the Cypriot registry in the first ten months of 2022, as they could not remain under the Cypriot flag because they were mainly trading with Russia.
31.10.2022 – Cyprus has largest rise in tax to GDP ratio from 2020 to 2021 according to Eurostat
Cyprus saw the largest rise in the EU in its tax-to-GDP ratio, meaning the sum of taxes and net social contributions as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), in 2021 compared to 2020, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. The country’s tax-to-GDP ratio increased from 34.0% in 2020 to 36.0% in 2021. Overall in the EU, the tax-to-GDP ratio stood at 41.7% in 2021, an increase compared with 2020 (41.1%).
31.10.2022 – Electricity prices up by 32% in Cyprus along with increases all over the EU in first half of 2022, Eurostat data show
In the first half of 2022, average household electricity prices in the European Union increased sharply compared with the same period in 2021, from 22.0 euro per 100 kWh to 25.3 euro per 100 kWh, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. The same data show a 32% increase in Cyprus during the same period, from 19.8 euro per 100 kWh during the first six months of 2021 to 26.1 euro per 100 kWh during the same period in 2022.
Source: Cyprus News Agency
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For democracy to survive, citizens must speak up, Diomedes Koufteros, who is directing Stefano Massini’s “Anna Politkovskaya”, tells CNA
For democracy to survive, citizens must speak up, actor-director Diomedes Koufteros, who is directing Stefano Massini’s “Anna Politkovskaya, a Theatrical Note,” tells CNA.
Asked why he chose to stage this play, Koufteros states that the idea was born in 2019, when he read the text and understood its theatrical and literary value. He adds that when he read more about Anna Politkovskaya herself, he realised what it was all about.
Koufteros says he drew a parallel with whether there is sufficient freedom of the press and expression in Cyprus. “It’s a question I often ask journalists. I think there are limitations, but the situation is clearly better than in totalitarian regimes,” he notes.
After these thoughts and while the preliminary work was being done to stage the play, the Russian invasion of Ukraine occurred, Diomedes Koufteros explains to CNA. “Suddenly the play became completely current, that is, its anti-war character was fully highlighted. The play ended up being a modern anti-war story,” he says.
He also states that Anna Politkovskaya and every journalist who opposes totalitarian regimes needs courage, boldness and “madness” to continue writing, despite the pressures they face. All this, he adds, “became a note to myself, a reminder that we must speak with arguments, not be silent. For democracy to endure and survive, citizens must speak up.”
Asked by CNA, the actor-director says that what struck him the most about this play is the personal responsibility of everyone. “In other words, beyond the systemic problem and the game played with the creation of the communication image, how can I be a better citizen in democracy, how will I get up from the sofa and take a stand?”, he explains.
“We are in an era where, because of the social media, we think we are taking a stand by writing a comment,” Koufteros points out, adding that “we need to talk to people, engage in dialogue, disagree using arguments.”
Source: Cyprus News Agency