London: The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) has announced the successful launch of the national Brain Gain Initiative, ‘Minds in Cyprus’, held at London’s historic Guildhall. Over 600 Cypriot professionals residing in the United Kingdom attended the event, which was organized in collaboration with the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus, the CCCI, and Invest Cyprus. The gathering emphasized the Cypriot economy’s ability to attract high-calibre talent and the professionals’ interest in returning to Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, opening remarks were made by Mr. Evgenios Evgeniou, Chairman of Invest Cyprus, and Mr. Phanos Theofanous, President of the ‘Cypriots in the City’ network. The speakers emphasized Cyprus’ economic growth and the strategic importance of attracting top-tier professionals to position the island as a leading business hub in the region.
Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic, presented the Government’s Action Plan, which includes tax, investment, and social incentives designed to make Cyprus an appealing destination for highly skilled diaspora professionals. The plan, themed ‘Reconnecting Talent, Transforming Cyprus,’ reiterated the State’s dedication to fostering innovation and opportunity.
The event featured a round-table discussion titled ‘A Changing Cyprus: New Horizons for Talent and Enterprise.’ Participants included CCCI President Mr. Stavros Stavrou, Deputy Minister to the President Ms. Irene Piki, and senior executives from international companies in Cyprus. The discussion focused on the island’s new economic model and the opportunities available for investors, businesses, and professionals.
The programme concluded with a panel titled ‘Why I Went Back: Stories of Return, Belonging and Impact,’ where six successful returnees shared their experiences of reintegration into the Cypriot business ecosystem. They provided practical advice to potential repatriates, highlighting the benefits and challenges of returning to Cyprus.
The evening ended with a networking reception, allowing attendees to connect with representatives from more than twenty leading Cypriot companies and research centres to discuss career and collaboration opportunities in Cyprus.
The success of the event signifies the beginning of a focused effort to convert Brain Drain into Brain Gain, establishing a strong foundation for the initiative’s future actions.