Nicosia: Public interest and serving citizens are paramount in performing duties, President Nikos Christodoulides remarked during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet members, following a mini reshuffle announced earlier this week.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides urged the new Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Commissioners to work with dedication and determination to meet public expectations. He emphasized the importance of understanding their responsibilities, addressing pending issues, and utilizing the experience of their predecessors and public administration personnel. The President also highlighted the need for cooperation with state institutions, legislative and judicial authorities, political parties, and various professional and citizen groups.
President Christodoulides encouraged direct and personal contact with citizens, even in remote areas, to address their concerns and promote fair and feasible demands. He stressed the need for tireless work to meet public expectations when final assessments are made.
The President outlined five basic priorities of the government program, with the top priority being the resolution of the Cyprus problem. Other priorities include strong defense and security, an extroverted foreign policy with a European-Western orientation, a sound economy, state modernization, continuous reforms, transparency, accountability, and improving citizens' daily lives.
President Christodoulides reviewed achievements since assuming office, including tax reform, vocational education decisions, and reforms in the pension system. Efforts to modernize institutions, eliminate bureaucratic procedures, and manage migration effectively were also highlighted. The President noted strengthening the National Guard's deterrent capacity and expanding the diplomatic footprint of Cyprus.
The President mentioned recent developments, such as the visit of the United Nations Secretary-General and the European Commission's envoy for the Cyprus issue, as a result of the government's persistent efforts to resume peace talks on the agreed framework. He expressed modest optimism about the possibility of ending the occupation and reunifying Cyprus, despite challenges.
President Christodoulides thanked outgoing Cabinet members for their contributions, while Minister of Agriculture Christos Senekis, on behalf of the new Cabinet members, expressed gratitude for the honor and responsibility of their roles. Senekis acknowledged the work of former members and the challenges ahead, emphasizing the ambition to meet citizens' expectations and leave a positive impact on the country.