Nicosia: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides called on the newly-appointed members of the Cabinet to work tirelessly as they assume their duties, speaking at their swearing-in ceremony held at 9:00 a.m. on Monday at the Presidential Palace.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the new Cabinet members are Energy Minister and former Health Minister Michalis Damianos, Labour Minister Marinos Moushiouttas, Justice Minister Konstantinos Fytiris, Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides, and Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina. Former Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis was appointed as Presidential Commissioner.
Addressing the new officials, President Christodoulides said that they are taking office at a demanding and critical juncture, with major challenges ahead, and only days before Cyprus assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. He urged them to thoroughly familiarise themselves with all issues in their portfolios, to make full use of ministry staff and experts, and to remain attuned to the needs of citizens. He stressed that they must avoid populism and act decisively on fair and justified requests that can be implemented.
The President urged the new Ministers to serve the public interest within the framework of legality, uphold transparency, and adhere strictly to the government’s code of conduct. He described them as ‘partners’ in the effort to implement the government’s programme – the administration’s ‘social contract’ with the Cypriot people, he said.
Approaching the government’s third year in office, he said, results already demonstrate consistency between promises and actions. Cyprus, he noted, is currently in its strongest economic position in decades, allowing the government to introduce targeted social measures, support households and businesses, and invest significantly in education, health, housing, and overall quality of life.
President Christodoulides thanked the outgoing ministers for their contribution to key governance reforms, expressing confidence that their successors will build on these foundations ‘productively and effectively.’
Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed officials, Energy Minister Michalis Damianos said they wish to be judged on transparency, integrity, and respect for democratic values and meritocracy. He affirmed they are prepared to take difficult decisions in the country’s interest, even at political cost, and that they were ‘fully aware’ of the responsibility they assume. He pledged close cooperation within the government to deliver on commitments and serve the citizens of Cyprus with professionalism and determination.