CYPRUS REVIEW – JANUARY 2024

Cyprus and UK send first cargo of humanitarian aid to Gaza The Republic of Cyprus and the United Kingdom sent on Tuesday the first cargo of humanitarian aid to the civilian population of Gaza that includes 10 tonnes of pharmaceuticals contributed by the Republic of Cyprus. According to a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the humanitarian aid of 90 tonnes arrived in Port Said and is transferred, in coordination with the Egyptian Red Crescent, to a crossing point in Rafah. Cyprus has a specific strategy for additional aid to Gaza, President says The Republic of Cyprus has a plan and a specific strategy for sending additional humanitarian aid to Gaza, always taking into account the conditions on the ground and with a number of options in relation to the destination, President Nikos Christodoulides said in a written statement Tuesday. He noted that today Nicosia's initiative to provide humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza, through the Amalthia project, was implemented. 'Milesto ne' first UK maritime shipment of Gaza aid delivered in Egypt The first UK maritime shipment of aid for Gaza, which was loaded on a Royal Navy ship in Cyprus, arrived in Egypt on Monday in what has been hailed as a 'milestone' in the ongoing humanitarian efforts. The shipment was delivered from Cyprus by Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship Lyme Bay, carrying almost 11,000 thermal blankets, nearly 5,000 shelter packs and medical supplies provided by the UK and the Republic of Cyprus. Maintenance work at the medieval chapel of Apostle Andreas in Karpasia to start A number of projects are streamlined in 2024 for the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage. The Greek Cypriot co-chairman, Sotos Ktoris told CNA that for 2024 there is a specific plan for the conservation and preservation of monuments throughout Cyprus. Specifically, restoration work as part of the second phase is scheduled to start at the Apostolos Andreas Monastery in the Turkish occupied Karpas peninsula. Deposits and loans in Cypriot banks increase i n November An increase in loans and deposits in the Cypriot banks was recorded in November 2023, according to December 2023 edition of Monetary and Financial Statistics issued by the Central Bank of Cyprus. Total deposits in November 2023 recorded a net increase of pound 91.7 million, compared with a net decrease of pound 61.0 million in October 2023. Rise in value and volume of retail trade in November Cyprus recorded upward trends in retail trade during November 2023, as revealed by data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Specifically, the Retail Trade Turnover Value Index increased by 5.7% compared to the same month last year, with a cumulative growth of 9.4% for the period January to November 2023. New minimum 15% taxation rate for multinationals in EU comes into force New EU rules introducing a minimum rate of effective taxation of 15% for multinational companies came into effect on January 1st, based on the agreement reached by G7 leaders in June 2021. 'The entry into force in Europe an d in jurisdictions around the world of this historic reform marks a major step towards a fairer corporate taxation system' said Commissioner for Economic affairs, Paolo Gentiloni. Cyprus in solidarity with Japan following earthquake Cyprus has conveyed its condolences to Japan following the earthquake that killed at least 55 people. The Foreign Ministry in a post at platform X says that at this difficult time, Cyprus stands in solidarity with the government and the people of Japan. The UN to announce Secretary General's envoy to Cyprus soon The appointment of the UN Secretary General's envoy to Cyprus, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, Maria Angela Holguín Cuellar, is expected to be officially announced in the coming days. Answering a question by the Cyprus News Agency to the office of the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, spokeswoman Dionne Hutchinson stated that the envoy will be officially announced as soon as the "green light" is given. Wednesday 03 January 2024 UNSG appoints Mon golian Major General new UNFICYP commander United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced on Tuesday the appointment of Major General Erdenebat Batsuuri of Mongolia as Force Commander of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP). Major General Batsuuri succeeds Major General Ingrid Gjerde of Norway, to whom the Secretary-General "is grateful for her exemplary service and dedication," the UN announced. Cyprus' credit ratings milestones for 2024 announced International rating agencies have announced the dates for Cyprus' long-term credit rating assessment in 2024 with two agencies, namely Standard and Poor's and Fitch placing the economy's rating on track for upgrade, as they assigned positive outlook in their last rating actions of 2023. Cyprus' rating is three notches above lower investment grade with DBRS Morningstar and Score ratings upgrading Cyprus to BBB High and BBB+ respectively, while Standard and Poor's, Moody's and Fitch ratings have assigned a ???, ?aa2 and BBB respe ctively, two notches above the lower investment grade. Cypriot sustainable bond ESG sovereign bond of the year, Global Capital says London-based Global Capital described Cyprus' pound 1-billion inaugural ESG bond (4.125%) issued in April 2023 as the Sovereign-Supranational-Agency (SSA) Environmental/Social/Governance (ESG) Bond of the year. Global Capital issued its Review 2023 and Outlook for 2024, noting that Cyprus 'stole the show' in 2023 in the ESG Sovereign and Supranational sector. 'Few deals seem to capture the imagination as much as one with which a sovereign embarks on its ESG finance journey and Cyprus stole the show on that font in 2023', Global Capital said in its report, published on its website. Economic sentiment in Cyprus deteriorated in December 2023 says CypERC The economic sentiment in Cyprus deteriorated in December 2023, as the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI-CypERC) decreased by 4.6 points compared with November 2023. According to the Economics Research Center of the University of Cyprus (CypERC), the decrease in the ESI-CypERC was driven by weaker business confidence primarily in services and, to a lesser degree, in construction. Thursday 04 January 2024 UN SG calls on both sides in Cyprus not to miss other opportunities, sources tell CNA UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterates in his Good Services report his commitment to continue his efforts on the Cyprus problem, expresses his disappointment at the lack of progress in resuming the dialogue and calls on both sides not to miss other opportunities, sources have told CNA. In the so far unofficial drafts of the two reports, on UNFICYP and his Good Services, sources said, there is an attempt by the Secretary General to keep an equal distance in order not to provoke the Turkish side in view of the appointment of an envoy for the Cyprus problem. Colin Stewart raises buffer zone concerns ahead of his contacts in New York Colin Stewart, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Cyprus and Head of UNFICYP, expres sed concern over the increase of militarisation along the buffer zone and said the UN Secretary-General's report on the peacekeeping mission in Cyprus reflects these concerns. Replying to journalists' questions after a meeting on Thursday with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, at the Presidential Palace, Colin Stewart said that he would also brief the Security Council on any new developments after December 12, when the reporting period ends, on the 17th of January when he will be in New York. Optimism and realism ahead of appointment of envoy, Spokesman says The government is entering into a process for resuming the Cyprus talks with optimism and properly prepared, and not by thinking about failure, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Thursday after the meeting of President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides with Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in Cyprus, Colin Stewart. Asked how difficult he considers the mission of the new UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy to the Cyprus issue due to the positions of the Turkish side, he said that "we know the possibilities, we are realistic. Spokesman: Turkish Cypriot lawyer arrested in Rome unlikely to have traveled from Larnaca It is unlikely that the Turkish Cypriot lawyer Akan Kursat, who was recently arrested in Rome, has traveled from Larnaca, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis has said, noting however, that this would be clarified in the coming days. Asked on Thursday about the issue, the Spokesman said that the case is being investigated. In relation to the Turkish Cypriot lawyer's involvement with the sale of Greek Cypriot properties in the island's Turkish-occupied areas, Letymbiotis explained that a European warrant was issued in 2007 which indicated clearly the reasons, including the appropriation of Greek Cypriot properties. FM expresses condolences for loss of lives at Kerman bombings The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its deepest condolences for the loss of so many innocent lives during the bombings in Kerman, Iran. In a post on the platform 'X' it says "we express our deepest condolences for the loss of so many innocent lives, including women and children, and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured during the bombings in Kerman". "Our solidarity with the families of the victims" the Foreign Ministry says. Investment funds on a growth trajectory in 2024, CIFA says The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) has issued a press release in which it states that it shares an optimistic outlook for 2024, anticipating another favorable year for the Investment Funds sector in Cyprus, despite facing challenges and prevailing uncertainties. "In 2023, the Cypriot Investment Funds were required to exhibit resilience and bolster the growth dynamic of the Cypriot economy, a goal they substantially achieved. E-consultation platform has been approved, FinMin says The Council of Ministers approved Thursday the establishment of a public consultation platform, known as e-consultation, Minister of Finan ce Makis Keravnos said after the Cabinet meeting. Keravnos referred to the reward of the green bond last April by the Global Capital organisation, saying that this is an important achievement of the fiscal policy "and how we manage the public debt". Inflation fell to a four-month low to 1.6% in December 2023 Inflation fell to a four-month low to 1.6% in December 2023, on an annual basis, remaining, as in the previous month (November 2023), within the target set by the European Central Bank for inflation below 2%. Inflation in December 2023 rose at a rate of 1.6%, the lowest rate since August 2023 and the second lowest in 31 months (since April 2021). Unemployed at an 8-month high in December, 13-year low based on seasonal data The number of registered unemployed in Cyprus rose to an eight-month high at the end of December 2023, while the number of registered unemployed fell to at least a 13-year low, based on seasonally adjusted data, which show the unemployment trend. According to the Statistical Service of Cyprus, the unemployed persons, registered at the District Labour Offices on the last day of December 2023, reached 13,670 persons. Friday 05 January 2024 UN SG appoints María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar as his personal envoy in Cyprus UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has appointed María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar of Columbia as his personal envoy for Cyprus, it was announced at the UN regular briefing in New York. 'The SG has asked Ms Holguin to assume a Good Offices role on his behalf to search for Common Ground on the way forward and to advice him on the Cyprus issue,' Stephanie Tremblay, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General said. President welcomes appointment of UNSG personal envoy for Cyprus issue President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides welcomes "with satisfaction the decision of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to appoint María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, as his personal envoy for the Cyprus issue", a press release by the Presidency sa ys. The press release issued on Friday says that the President of the Republic has from the outset of his administration, after assuming his duties, set the goal of reactivating the international community and especially the UN, to look into the prospects of resuming talks from where they left off in 2017 in Crans Montana, Switzerland. UNSG Report: The divide is growing, eroding the prospects for a Cyprus solution It becomes clearer with every passing year that the divide between the sides is growing, gradually eroding the prospects of finding a mutually acceptable political settlement, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says in the draft Report on his mission of good offices in Cyprus for the information of the members of the Security Council. However, Guterres stresses that he will continue to encourage the two leaders to be open to dialogue, as he believes this is vital to finding a way forward. Humanitarian aid corridor to Gaza, one-way, Spokesman tells CNA The planning for a humanitarian corridor, from the beginning, provided and provides for a one-way maritime corridor for the delivery of humanitarian aid to the civilian population of Gaza, Cyprus' Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, told CNA on Friday, noting that the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Palestinian Authority was expected to visit Cyprus. Invited by CNA to comment on local media reports on concerns expressed by Palestinian officials regarding the relocation of residents from the Gaza Strip through the ships that will carry the humanitarian aid, Letymbiotis noted that from the beginning, when the plan was developed, both the President of the Republic as well as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, held meetings with members of the leadership of the Palestinian Authority whereby they presented the initiative. Deputy Minister of Innovation submits his resignation to the President The Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Strategy, Philippos Hadjizacharias, sent a letter of resignation to the President of the Cyprus Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, on Friday, invoking personal reasons. According to CNA sources, the resignation is expected to be accepted and the Presidency of the Republic will issue a relevant announcement. Cypriot President accepts the resignation of Deputy Minister Hadjizacharias Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has accepted the resignation of Philippos Hadjizacharias from the position of Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy. According to a statement from the Presidency of the Republic, "Philippos Hadjizacharias submitted his written resignation to the President of the Republic this noon for personal reasons." "The President of the Republic accepted the resignation and thanked Philippos Hadjizacharias for the services he provided to the government, wishing him success in the future," the statement said. Embassy in Paris represents RoC in Delors memorial, Spokesman tells CNA The Republic of Cyprus will be represented at the ceremony in memory of Jacques Delors, through it s Embassy in Paris, Government Spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis told CNA. Asked by CNA if the Republic of Cyprus would be represented at the memorial for Jacques Delors taking place at the French capital this Friday, Letymbiotis said that it will be represented on an official level through the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Paris. Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank to participate in ECB cyberattack stress test Cypriot banks, Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank have received on Thursday a letter by the European Central Bank informing them about their participation in the stress tests against cyberattacks that will be carried out in the Eurozone systemic banks. CNA has learned that the two Cypriot banks must submit their test results by February 29th. By March, first 6 phases of tax reform project to be completed, Syrichas tells CNA By March 2024, the first six phases of the tax reform project assigned by the Ministry of Finance to the Economics Research Centre of the University of Cyprus (CypERC), will be completed and then the preliminary proposals will be submitted, CypERC economist and member of the advisory committee for the project, George Syrichas told CNA. Syrichas said that the tax reform project was expected to be completed within two years, and that the objectives were a new integrated tax system that, among other things, allows Cyprus to continue being a competitive financial centre, is simple, transparent, reduces inequalities, is efficient, is friendly to economic growth and employment, promotes innovation, supports the transition to a green and digital economy and ensures the sustainability of public finances. Industrial turnover up 9.1% in October 2023 The Industrial Turnover Index for October 2023 displayed robust growth, with an annual change of 9.1%, reaching 195.5 units (base 2015=100), according to the latest data by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. For the period January - October 2023, the index recorded an increase of 6.7% compared to the corresponding period of the previous year. Tourism revenue surges 8.3% in October, 22.6% in 10-month period Tourism revenue increased by 8.3% in October 2023, compared to October 2022, and amounted to pound 346.5 million, from pound 319.8 million in the corresponding month of 2022, according to the Statistical Service of Cyprus. According to the Traveller Survey results covering January to October 2023, tourism revenue for the period amounted to pound 2,802.6 million, marking a substantial 22.6% increase from the corresponding period in 2022, where revenue stood at pound 2,285.2 million. New lending in Cyprus close to pound 3 billion in first 11 months of 2023 Pure new credit provided by the Cypriot banks in November amounted to almost pound 258 million with total new lending provided for the period of January - November approaching pound 3 billion marking a slight annual increase despite repeated interest rate hikes. According to data released by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC), pure new loans, that is excluding renegotiations, in November amount ed to pound 257.8 million, marking a marginal decrease of 0.2% year on year. Cypriot deposits remain low despite small rises The Cypriot banks provided the lowest interest on corporate deposits and the third lowest rates on deposits by households in the Euro area in November despite marginal monthly increases. According to data published by the CBC, the interest for deposits by households with agreed maturity up to one year rose to 2.01% in November from 1.58% in the previous month. ECB data showed that the interest rate provided by the Cyprus banking system for household deposits was the third lowest in the Euro area (following Greece and Slovenia) whereas the euro area average rate stood at 3.43%. Current account deficit widens to pound 0.52 billion in Q3 Cyprus' preliminary current account deficit deteriorated in the third quarter of 2023 to pound 517 million from pound 399 million in the respective period of last year, marking an annual increase of 29.6%, according to provisional external statistics d ata published by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) on Friday. However, when adjusted for the impact of Special Purpose Entities (SPEs), that is, classifying SPEs as non-residents, the current account deficit drops to pound 408.9 million in Q3 2023, compared with a deficit of pound 548.8 million in Q3 2022, the CBC added. Furthermore, Cyprus' international investment position (IIP) recorded an improvement in Q3 2023, presenting a net liability position of pound 28,267.5 million, compared with a net liability position of pound 28,658.3 million in Q2 2023. Saturday 06 January 2024 Appointment of UN top Envoy on Cyprus particularly important, President says Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides welcomed on Saturday the official appointment of Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar as UNSG personal Envoy on the Cyprus problem. In statements to the press following the celebrations for the Epiphany in Larnaca, Christodoulides said he considers the appointment as 'particularly important,' recalling that since the assumption of his duties he worked very methodically to this end. Cyprus President says goal of aid to Palestinians is to help them remain in Gaza The ultimate goal of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians in Gaza is to enable them to remain there, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on the sidelines of the Epiphany celebrations held in Larnaca. To a question about the "Amalthea" project and information that the Palestinian Foreign Minister will visit Cyprus, the President of the Republic said that "our efforts are continuing". "Let me clarify something because I saw something in relation to the Palestinian reaction, The Palestinians have been supportive of this effort from the beginning", he said, noting that he had a meeting with the Palestinian Prime Minister in France when he was invited to participate in the Gaza Summit organised by the French President. Borrell and Ferreira welcome Holguin, stress need for security in region Security and stability are more important than ever in the current geo political context in the Eastern Mediterranean, "where common interests and opportunities can foster cooperation and joint approaches", EU High Representative Josep Borrell and Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira said in a joint statement, welcoming the nomination of María Ángela Holguín Cuellar, former Foreign Minister of Colombia, as new UN Secretary General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus. "This appointment is instrumental in providing critical support in the search for common ground with the goal of returning to formal negotiations for a lasting settlement in Cyprus, a process that has not progressed since the talks held in Crans Montana, in 2017" they note. UK Government welcomes the appointment of the UNSG envoy on Cyprus The UK Government has welcomed the appointment of Maria Ángela Holguín Cuéllar as Antonio Guterres' envoy on Cyprus. Posting on X the Minister for Europe Leo Docherty commented: 'The appointment of Ms Holguín as the UN Secretary General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus is an im portant step and we welcome the agreement of both leaders to work with her. Sunday 07 January 2024 President conveys to UNSG profound concern over violations in the Buffer zone Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has called on UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to convey to Ankara the need for self-restraint with regard to continued violations in the UN buffer zone, expressing 'profound concern' that escalating violations would lead to 'a serious crisis.' Greek Cypriot daily 'O Phileleftheros' has published extracts of the letter to Guterres, dated December 22, before the UN Chief's announcement on the appointment of his personal envoy on the Cyprus problem. Greece welcomes the appointment of the new UN Personal Envoy for Cyprus The Greek Government warmly welcomes the appointment by the United Nations Secretary-General of María Angela Holguín Cuéllar as the new Personal Envoy for Cyprus. In a statement, the Greek Foreign Ministry says that the appointment of María Angela Holguín Cuéllar is 'an im portant step in the ongoing efforts, under the guidance of the UN Secretary-General, to resume negotiations with a view to achieving a mutually acceptable, just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem, on the agreed basis of the UN Security Council Resolutions, as well as the principles and values of the European Union'. 'We hope that the new UN Envoy will successfully coordinate the effort to find common ground for the resumption of negotiations in this framework', the Foreign Ministry adds. Monday 08 January 2024 Cyprus President reshuffles Cabinet Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis announced on Monday morning a partial government reshuffle. According to Letymbiotis, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides, exercising the powers granted to him by the Constitution, has decided to make changes to the composition of the government. According to the Spokesperson, Vasilis Palmas is appointed Minister of Defence, Maria Panayiotou is appointed Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Marios Hartsiotis is appointed Minister of Justice and Public Order, Michalis Damianos is appointed Minister of Health, Nikodemos Damianou is appointed Deputy Minister of Innovation, Research, and Digital Policy and Marilena Raouna is appointed Deputy Minister of European Affairs. National Council discusses next steps after UNSG envoy's appointment The next steps after the appointment of the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy on the Cyprus issue, the scenarios for the resumption of negotiations for a Cyprus settlement, confidence-building measures concerning the Turkish Cypriots and also the issue of the team dealing with the Cyprus issue, were discussed, among other issues, on Monday by the National Council, that met under President Nikos Christodoulides. Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, said after the National Council meeting, that the President of the Republic, together with the entire political leadership of the country had the opportunity to discuss the latest develop ments, especially the appointment of the UN Secretary-General's envoy, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, the coordination and strategy for the next steps and in view of her arrival in Cyprus. Terrorism is a common threat for the whole world, Iranian Ambassador tells CNA The terrorist attack in Kerman should be strongly condemned by every country because terrorism is a common threat for the whole world, the Ambassador of Iran to Cyprus Alireza Salarian told CNA on Monday, on the sidelines of the signing of the book of condolence at the Embassy of Iran in Nicosia for the victims of the attack that took place last Wednesday in the southeastern part of the country. According to the Iranian Ambassador, the attack coincided with the fourth anniversary of the death of General Qasem Soleimani, a major figure, as he said, in combatting ISIS terrorism in Iraq and Syria. Greek and Turkish Cypriots in the UK jointly welcome UNSG envoy appointment Greek and Turkish Cypriot diaspora organisations in the UK have issued a jo int statement welcoming the appointment of María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar as the UN Secretary General's personal envoy on Cyprus. As the statement reads, the organisation is 'clear that a solution to the Cyprus issue must reunify the island and its people, in full line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, as well as with principles of international law, EU acquis and human rights.' Welcoming the appointment of the new envoy, the signatories call for reunification talks to resume on the agreed UN basis as soon as possible. US welcomes appointment of envoy on Cyprus by UNSG, Miller says The appointment by the UN Secretary-General of Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus, comes at a critical juncture in which direct and sustained engagement is essential, recognizing the future of all Cypriots will be impacted by these efforts, the State Department's spokesperson, Matthew Miller said in a statement on Monday, welcoming the appointment. The United States of America welcomes Ho lguin's appointment, Miller said, noting that she brings 'considerable foreign policy expertise to this role', and the United States 'looks forward to engaging with her as she undertakes her efforts to search for common ground on the way forward toward a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Cyprus'. This appointment, he noted, comes at a critical juncture in which direct and sustained engagement is essential, recognizing the future of all Cypriots will be impacted by these efforts. Our goal is the implementation of the government program, President says Our goal is the implementation of our program, which is our social contract with the people, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said on Monday, replying to questions by the press on the Cabinet reshuffle announced earlier. He said that in the last ten months the government has produced an important work for which they are very proud, adding that the government's focus is to implement everything that it has promised to the Cyprus people, in or der to deal with their realistic concerns, problems and challenges they are faced with daily. UNSG's envoy on Cyprus expected in New York for meetings this week The UN Secretary-General's newly-appointed personal envoy for Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, is expected to arrive this week in New York, where she is to hold a series of meetings with UN officials, sources told CNA on Monday. According to the information obtained by CNA, Cuellar, whose appointment was announced last week by the UN, is to arrive in New York this week where she is to hold meetings with the UNSG's Special Representative in Cyprus, Colin Stewart, the Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, Miroslav Jenca, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, and the Secretary General, Antonio Guterres. Deputy Minister of Shipping travels to Japan to promote Cyprus shipping The Deputy Minister of Shipping, Marina Hadjimanolis, is travelling to Japan on Monday to promote and advertise Cypriot shipping. According to a press release from the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, Hadjimanolis will hold a series of meetings with shipowners, executives of shipping companies, financial institutions and shipyards. Volume of retail trade in Cyprus increased in November, decreased in EU In November 2023, the seasonally adjusted volume of retail trade increased by 1.6% in Cyprus, and decreased by 0.3% in the eurozone and by 0.2% in the EU, compared with October 2023, according to estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In October 2023, the retail trade volume had remained stable in Cyprus compared to September, and had increased by 0.4% in the euro area and by 0.5% in the EU. Tuesday 09 January 2024 US Representative to UN welcomes appointment of personal envoy on Cyprus Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, has welcomed the appointment of a UNSG personal envoy on Cyprus saying that s he looks forward to working with the envoy. In a post on the platform 'X' she wrote that she welcomes "Secretary General's appointment of María Angela Holguín Cuéllar of Colombia as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus". She adds that "I look forward to working with the Envoy, our partners, and allies to advance Cypriot-led, UN-facilitated efforts to secure outcomes that benefit all Cypriots". France welcomes the UNSG appointment of a personal envoy for Cyprus France welcomes UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' appointment of Colombia's former Foreign Minister, María Angela Holguin Cuéllar, as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus. A press release from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs says that "we offer her our best wishes for success and assure her of our full support." Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Cuellar to search for common ground in Cyprus says UN, doesn't comment on duration The UN has said newly appointed UN Secretary-General's person al envoy for Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, will search for common ground on the way forward and advice on the Cyprus issue. Florencia Soto Niño, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General was asked during Monday's briefing to explain what the mandate and the duration of the personal envoy will be and said 'I honestly do not have very much other than what was in her appointment'. Human rights in Cyprus remain an 'unfulfilled promise,' President says Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated his commitment for taking all necessary steps to resume the negotiating process over the settlement of the Cyprus problem, adding that human rights 'remain tragically an unfulfilled promise for all Cypriots.' 'Today is a staggering and somber reminder that human rights in Cyprus remain tragically an unfulfilled promise for all Cypriots, as a result of occupation and the illegal invasion of Turkey in 1974, in continuous and persistent violation of the UN Charter, UN Security Council Resolutions, inter national human rights and EU law', the President said addressing a gathering at the Presidential Palace to celebrate the UN and Human Rights Day organized by the UN Association Cyprus. Migratory flows from Syria worry Cyprus, Minister tells EU Commissioner Cyprus is very concerned about the unprecedented migratory flows from Syria, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou stressed on Tuesday during a meeting he had in Nicosia with the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ilva Johansson, noting that the overall situation in Syria should be reviewed. On her part, Johansson noted that revaluation of the status of Syria "is not an easy task", stressing that "the only way to manage migration in an orderly manner is to do it together". In statements after the meeting, the Interior Minister said that the meeting with the Commissioner provided an opportunity to review Cyprus' actions for a coherent and holistic response to the challenge of migration. Cyprus FM and Johansson discuss EU Action Plan, Middle East, ma ritime corridor The EU Action Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean migration route, developments in the Middle East and Cyprus' proposal to establish a maritime corridor for providing humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza were the issues discussed in the meeting that Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos held with EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson on Tuesday in Nicosia. As the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted on X, ''FM Constantinos Kombos met today with EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson''. ''Discussion focused on EU Action Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean migration route, developments in the Middle East, Cyprus Maritime Corridor for providing humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza'', the post concludes. EU Commissioner and Dep. Minister discuss issue of unaccompanied minors The issue of unaccompanied minors was discussed during a meeting held on Tuesday in Nicosia between Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Marilena Evangelou and European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson. In sta tements to journalists, Evangelou said that they had a very productive meeting during which she thanked the Commissioner for the EU assistance to Cyprus regarding the migration issue and issues that fall within the responsibilities of the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. GRECO pending recommendations partly implemented, Cypriot delegation to it says GRECO has made public on Tuesday its 4th Round Second Addendum to the Second Compliance Report on Cyprus, which deals with corruption prevention in respect of members of parliament, judges, and prosecutors and was adopted on November 27, 2023, the Cypriot delegation to GRECO has said adding that it is assessed that the seven pending recommendations are "partly implemented". In a press release the Cypriot delegation to GRECO says that in its Evaluation Report, GRECO concludes that Cyprus has implemented satisfactorily or dealt with in a satisfactory manner nine of the sixteen recommendations contained in the Fourth Round Evaluation Report. "Of the seven pending recommendations, all have been partly implemented," it notes. Vehicle registrations up by 34.6% in 2023 Total registrations of motor vehicles soared by 34.6%, reaching 45,494 during the period of January-December 2023, compared to 33,795 in the same period of 2022, according to the latest report by the Statistical Service of Cyprus "Registration of Motor Vehicles." In December 2023 alone, the momentum continued, with a remarkable 35.4% increase in total registrations compared to December 2022. Cyprus trade deficit widens in 2023 Cyprus trade deficit increased by pound 962.3 million during the period of January-November 2023 compared to the corresponding period of 2022, according to preliminary data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. The January-November 2023 period marked an overall import increase of 12.0%, hitting pound 11,896.6 million. Wednesday 10 January 2024 President urges new officials to ignore baseless criticism and focus on duties The swearing-in ceremony for the new Ministers a nd the handover of appointments for the new Deputy Minister and Commissioners, took place on Wednesday morning at the Presidential Palace, following a recent reshuffle by the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides. During his address at the ceremony, President Christodoulides urged the incoming officials to remain focused on their responsibilities and to dismiss baseless criticism, while taking into account constructive feedback. 'Close your ears to sirens of all kinds, that's what I do, and dedicate yourselves only to the implementation of your work in the public interest,' he noted. ?ew Agriculture Minister sets halloumi status among her priorities The PDO status of halloumi, the protection of Akamas peninsula, waste management and animal welfare are among her immediate priorities, the new Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, said during a handover ceremony, which took place on Wednesday at the Ministry, in Nicosia. In a Cabinet reshuffle, announ ced on Monday, President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides appointed Panayiotou, who served so far as Commissioner for the Environment, as Minister of Agriculture. Three new Commissioners assume duties following government reshuffle Three newly appointed Commissioners, Commissioner for the Citizen, Panayiotis Palates, Commissioner for the Development of Mountain Communities Charalambos Christofinas and Commissioner for the Environment, Antonia Theodosiou assumed on Wednesday their duties, following the government reshuffle announced last Monday. In his statements to the journalists, at the Presidential Palace, Commissioner for the Citizen Panayiotis Palates thanked the President of the Republic "for the trust and the opportunity through the Office of the Commissioner for the Citizen, to implement first of all his pre-electoral commitments regarding participatory governance." He added that the second pillar he will deal with "is to act as an auxiliary to the NGOs and organizations that are actively volunteerin g" and strengthen their action. Newly-appointed Deputy Minister of Research assumes duties Newly-appointed Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Nicodemos Damianou, took over the portfolio of the Deputy Ministry on Wednesday from outgoing Philippos Hadjizacharias. The new Deputy Minister said that the first action must be the acceleration and successful completion of all ongoing projects. In addition, he continued, we should find the ways to bring practical, essential solutions that will digitize the way citizens and businesses interact, communicate, relate to the public sector and to each other. He said that we live in a time where developments in the field of technology are more than impressive, and referred to artificial intelligence and the creation of new business models and modus operandi. "Technology exists, solutions exist", he said, adding that the effort is complex, but the responsibility of the Deputy Ministry is to utilize and implement these solutions. All measures taken to maintain sense of security near buffer zone, President says President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday that all measures are being taken by the Republic of Cyprus so that the sense of security of the residents of the areas adjacent to the buffer zone is not affected in any way by the Turkish provocations. The President was replying to questions by reporters in Limassol about new Turkish provocations in the area of Deneia, in the Nicosia district, on his arrival to a naming ceremony of Cyprus University of Technology. ?he status of the buffer zone remains unchanged, Siddique tells CNA on Deneia ?he status of the buffer zone remains unchanged, spokesperson of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), Aleem Siddique, said on Wednesday in a statement to CNA in response to media reports about construction activity in the buffer zone in the area of Deneia, in the Nicosia district. 'We are aware of reports of construction activity north of Deneia, outside the UN buffer zone,' Siddique sai d. EU signs agreement with UNDP for pound 2.6 million aid to CMP The European Commission has signed an agreement of pound 2.6 million with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to assist the work of the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus (CMP). A EC press release said this is the 15th agreement with UNDP demonstrating the strong commitment of the European Commission to peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts in Cyprus. Cyprus-Kyrgyzstan Foreign Ministers discuss strengthening of bilateral relations The strengthening of bilateral relations between Cyprus and Kyrgyzstan was discussed, inter alia, in a telephone conversation between the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, and the Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Zheenbek Kulubaev. According to a post by the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 'X' (formerly Twitter) platform, it was a forward-looking and positive telephone call. Jordan in favor of Cyprus solution based on UN resolutions, new Ambassador says The n ew Ambassador of Jordan to Cyprus has reaffirmed his country's position of principles as regards the Cyprus issue and the efforts to reach a solution based on the relevant UN resolutions, noting that the appointment of the UNSG's envoy for Cyprus is a positive development. According to a press release by the House of Representatives, President of the House Annita Demetriou received on Wednesday the new Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Cyprus Basheer F. Zoubi on the occasion of the assumption of his duties. Cyprus' strategy for Higher Education due in May, President says The comprehensive strategy for the reorganization and improvement of Higher Education is due to be published by May the latest, said the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, addressing on Wednesday a naming ceremony of the building of the Rectorate of the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT), to be labeled as "Christodoulos Sozos Rectorate Building." The foundation stone of the building of the laboratories of the Univ ersity's Fine Arts Department was also laid at the same event. In his speech, President Christodoulides pointed out that the substantial support of all public and private university institutions is a strategic goal for the Government, noting that "as a Government we invest in quality education, and in the near future we will publish - by May at the latest - our Strategy for Higher Education, which is currently under consultation." He said that for this purpose, a relevant meeting was held very recently in the presence of the Ministers of Education, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Interior and Labour. House prices up slightly in third quarter of 2023, official data show The house price index recorded in the third quarter of 2023 a slight increase by 0.6%, compared to the corresponding period in 2022. According to preliminary estimate of the Statistical Service, the HPI for the third quarter of 2023 amounts to 110.65 units. Compared to the second quarter of 2023, the HPI increased by 0.4% while compared to the Inde x of the corresponding quarter of 2022, the Index increased by 0.6%. Cyprus property prices surge in Q3 2023, apartments lead the way, Central Bank data show Housing prices in the Republic of Cyprus continued their upward trend during the third quarter of 2023, with a notable increase in apartment prices, according to data released on Wednesday by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC). The Residential Property Price Index (RPPI) maintained by the CBC continued to show increases both on an annual and quarterly basis compared to the previous quarters. Thursday 11 January 2024 Cyprus President says he aims for reunification in 2024 Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, stated on Thursday that he would do everything possible so that 2024 would be the year of liberation and reunification of Cyprus. In a statement on Thursday during the cutting of the New Year's cake at Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (RIK), President Christodoulides stressed that the year holds special significance for Cyprus. He noted that it marks 50 years since the brutal Turkish invasion and 50 years of ongoing occupation. "We will do everything possible so that 2024 becomes the year of liberation and reunification of our homeland," he said, adding that he truly believes this is possible with political will. MFA: No clear record of events in the UN Secretary General's reports ?n the issues of Pyla, Deryneia, the buffer zone in the area of Agios Dometios, Strovilia and Maria's House, no clear record of events is achieved in the UN Secretary General's reports on his Good Offices Mission and the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), and a long-standing trend of keeping equal distances is being followed, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday. At the same time, the Ministry welcomed in a press release the reaffirmation of the Secretary-General's commitment to the efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, guided by the relevant Security Council resolutions, which also set the relevant parameters of the United Nations. Works by occupat ion forces continue, Deneia community leader tells CNA Works by the occupation forces near the buffer zone in the Deneia area continue, the head of the local community, Christakis Panayiotou, told CNA on Thursday, noting that the United Nations were monitoring the situation. Asked by CNA about the situation in the area after reports on Wednesday about works by Turkish soldiers near the buffer zone in the Deneia area, in Nicosia district, Panayiotou said, they were witnessing the continuation of the works, and specifically the digging of a large ditch, about three meters deep. UN Secretary-General encourages Cyprus leaders to be open to dialogue He will continue to encourage the two leaders to be open to mutually acceptable modalities for dialogue as this remains crucial for finding a way forward, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said in his report on his mission of good offices in Cyprus. In his report on the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), he refers to a significant increase in the number and severity of military violations as regards the buffer zone and the ceasefire lines. Cabinet held first meeting under new composition following reshuffle The Council of Ministers held today its first meeting under its new composition following a government reshuffle announced last Monday. New Cabinet members were sworn in on Wednesday. The meeting on Thursday was chaired by the President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides. European Affairs Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna undertakes office As of Thursday, the Law on the Deputy Minister to the President of European Affairs comes into effect, according to a decision of the Council of Ministers. Marilena Raouna, the appointment of whom as Deputy Minister by President Nikos Christodoulides was announced on Tuesday, assumes her duties. Bioethics Committee role to be strengthened, President says The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, focused on strengthening the role of the Cyprus National Bioethics Committee to the benefit of citizens, while re ceiving the Committee's Report for the period 18 July 2019 to 31 December 2022, on Thursday at the Presidential Palace. Handing over the Report, the National Bioethics Committee Chairperson Constantinos Phellas said that at a time of such rapid technological and scientific development, the Committee is called upon to play a very important role in Cyprus' scientific and research landscape. Total government employment records annual increase in December In December 2023 total government employment increased by 860 persons (1.6%) in comparison to the corresponding month of 2022 and reached 54,546 persons. According to the Cyprus Statistical Service (CyStat), permanent staff decreased by 710 persons (-2.8%), from 25,466 to 24,756 persons. Annual increase of 7.9% of Index of Production in construction in 3Q 2023 An annual increase of 7.9% was recorded in the Index of Production in construction during the third quarter of 2023 compared to the previous year. According to the Statistical Service, the Index of Pro duction in Construction during the third quarter of 2023 reached 186.29 units (base year 2015=100,00), recording an increase of 7.9% over the third quarter of 2022. By type of project, an increase of 9.4% was observed for buildings and a marginal decrease of 0.3% for civil engineering projects in the third quarter of 2023 compared to the corresponding quarter of 2022. Meanwhile, the Output Prices Index in Construction for the third quarter of 2023 reached 137.27 units (base year 2015=100,00), recording an increase of 1.7% over the second quarter of 2023. Implementation of budget expenditure at 77% by end of November An increase to 77% was recorded at the end of November 2023 on the implementation of the state budget in relation to expenditure compared to the corresponding period last year (2022: 73%). According to a report by the Treasury of the Republic, this was mainly due to the increase by pound 530 million in loan and interest repayments, and a decrease in relation to revenue (2023: 90%, 2022: 87%), wh ile the increase in the implementation of development costs amounted to 57%, compared to 46% in 2022. Friday 12 January 2024 Republic of Cyprus not involved in military operation, MFA says after strikes against Houthis The Republic of Cyprus is not involved in any operation of a military nature, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told CNA on Friday, following the announcement that British aircraft stationed at Akrotiri Base in the British Bases, were part of an operation that carried air strikes on military positions belonging to the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. In a statement to CNA, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Theodoros Gotsis said that the Republic of Cyprus is actively monitoring the security situation in the region, which has deteriorated and stresses the need for an immediate end to actions that threaten free and safe navigation and endanger the wider security of the region'. Slovenia's FM welcomes appointment of UNSG personal envoy for Cyprus Slovenia supports the solution of the Cyprus issue within the UN framework, based on bi-zonal and bi-communal federation, said the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia ?anja Fajon, according to a post of Slovenia's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs on platform X, following her meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus Constantinos Kombos, on Friday, in Ljubljana. Fajon also welcomed the nomination of the UN Secretary-General' personal envoy for Cyprus and confirmed that Slovenia will deploy again up to 15 soldiers to UNFICYP. Cyprus - Slovenia FMs discuss bilateral ties, Cyprus issue, international affairs Minister of Foreign Affairs Constantinos Kombos paid on Friday a working visit to Slovenia at the invitation of his Slovenian counterpart Tanja Fajon, during which they discussed about the Cyprus issue, bilateral relations and international issues like the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. According to a Foreign Affairs Ministry press release, the two Ministers held a tete a tete meeting followed by extensive consultations with the participation of delegations from the two Ministries. Slovenia supports extending UN mission in Cyprus says Fajon after meeting Kombos Slovenia supports an extension of the UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus and intends to contribute up to 15 troops, Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon said on Friday at a joint press conference with her Cypriot counterpart Constantinos Kombos. As reported by the Slovenian Press Agency, and in relation to the UN Security Council's vote by the end of the month on the extension UNFICYP's mandate, which expires at the end of January, Fajon expressed confidence that the Security Council will support the extension, while confirming Slovenia's intention to participate more actively in the mission and to send up to 15 troops to Cyprus. Cypriot FM and UK Foreign Secretary discuss developments in the region Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron discussed on Friday the ongoing developments in the region. The Cypriot Foreig n Ministry wrote on its account on platform 'X' that during a telephone conversation they had they discussed the ongoing developments in the region. Building permits drop by an annual 7% in January-October 2023 The number of building permits issued in Cyprus in the period of January - October 2023 dropped by 6.9% year on year with the value and area of these permits recording annual increase, driven by rising prices for construction material but also by increasing duelling units. According to data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat) for the period of January - October, building permits issued by the municipal authorities and the district administration offices declined to 5,906 compared with 6,347 in the respective period of last year, marking a drop of almost 7% year on year. Public and private sectors join forces to address gap in IT jobs The state and the private sector are joining forces to offer a programme that aims to attract and retrain people to join the IT sector in a bid to a ddress the gap in the labour market. The Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, the Office of the Commissioner of Communications and the Cyprus Information Technology Enterprises Association (CITEA) presented on Friday the "ICT Re-Up Skilling" programme, which aspires to retrain unemployed people or employees with degrees in science and economics, so that they can join the field of IT and specifically data analytics, for which there is a great demand. Education Minister to inform MEPs about enclaved school children Minister of Education, Sports and Youth, Athena Michaelidou, has been invited to participate in a session of the European Parliament's Committee on Culture and Education, where she will present the situation at the schools of Rizokarpaso, in the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus. According to a press release issued by the Education Ministry, this is a very important development, since, during the session, the da te of which will be determined in the next few days, the Minister will have the opportunity to inform the MEPs, who are members of the Committee, about a series of provocative actions by the occupation regime, which violate the fundamental right of access to education of the enclaved students and systematically hinder the smooth operation of the nursery school, the primary school and the six-class gymnasium of Rizokarpaso. Cyprus among countries with largest ratios of Ukrainian refugees, Eurostat says Cyprus is one of the countries with the largest ratios of refugees from Ukraine that have received temporary protection in the EU after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, hosting 20.7 people per 1,000 inhabitants, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. According to the latest data up to 30 November 2023, 4.27 million non-EU citizens who fled Ukraine as a consequence of the Russian invasion on 24 February 2022, had temporary protection status in EU countries. By the end of Nove mber, 19,080 people had received temporary protection status in Cyprus, having increased by 445 people compared to October 2023 (18,635 persons). Georgiades travels to Belgium to participate in COSAC meeting The Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign and European Affairs, Harris Georgiades, will travel to Belgium on Sunday, 14 January, to participate in a meeting of the Conference of Parliamentary Committees for Union Affairs of Parliaments of the European Union (COSAC), to be held in Namur. A press release issued by the House of Representatives said that the meeting will take place on January 14 and 15, as part of the parliamentary dimension of the current Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Assets managed by Investment Funds in Cyprus drop by 20% in Q3 2023 Total Assets managed by Companies and Undertakings of Collective Investments (UCIs) in the third quarter of 2023 dropped by almost 20% compared with the previous quarter, driven downwards by the liquidation of units of two in vestment funds, Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has said. According to a quarterly statistical bulletin for the third quarter of last year issued by CySEC, assets under management (AUM) declined to pound 8.61 billion, from pound 10.74 billion in the previous quarter, marking a quarterly drop of 19.8% whereas compared with the same quarter of the previous year, the reduction of assets under management (AUM) is 12.8%. 'The reduction in Assets Under Management is mainly due to the liquidation of units of two investment funds,' CySEC said in a press release, adding that the UCIs, managed by the Management Companies, had a Net Asset Value (NAV) of pound 8 billion. Saturday 13 January 2024 Twenty of 36 children missing since the invasion have been identified President says Out of the 36 children missing since the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, only 20 have been identified so far, President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides said on Saturday in his address at the naming ceremony of the "Park of Missing Children of the Turkish Invasion 1974" in Nicosia. President Christodoulides announced that the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth will proceed with the naming of 36 halls throughout the country in primary schools, secondary schools and high schools, in memory of these children, underlining the need to inform the new generations about the Cypriot tragedy. UNSG personal envoy to visit Cyprus after January 27, President says The personal envoy of the UN Secretary General will visit Cyprus after January 27, the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Saturday. In his statements on the sidelines of a ceremony in Strovolos, in Nicosia, and, in response to journalists' questions, President Christodoulides said that the personal envoy of the UN Secretary General, Maria Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, has already started her contacts. 'We are on constant vigilance', President says on situation in region Measures are being taken so that there are no incidents in our country, Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Saturday, when asked about possible reprisals for operations carried out from Cyprus for strikes against the Houthis. 'We are on constant vigilance', he said, stating that, at the same time, 'we hope that those conditions will be created to end this war in our neighbourhood'. It is something that worries us, he said, and expressed hope that the conditions will be created to end the war and for the talks to restart to resolve the Palestinian issue on the basis of the agreed framework. Monday 15 January 2024 Minister discusses ways to address humanitarian needs in Gaza with UN official Cyprus Minister of Foreign Affairs Constantinos Kombos discussed with UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland ways of addressing the escalating humanitarian needs in Gaza. A post on Platform X, by the Cyprus foreign Affairs Ministry, says that both men discussed the Cyprus Maritime Corridor initiative, during the phone conversation they had. Fina nce Minister Keravnos in Brussels for Eurogroup meeting Minister of Finance Makis Keravnos is in Brussels to take part on Monday in the meetings of the Eurogroup and the EU Finance Ministers Council (ECOFIN). According to a press release by the Ministry of Finance, in today's Eurogroup meeting Keravnos and the other Finance Ministers of the Eurozone will exchange views about the policies to address the negative consequences of energy prices on the competitiveness of the Eurozone. Cyprus assumes Chairmanship of OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation Troika Cyprus has assumed the Presidency of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Vienna-based regional Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), in which 57 states participate, from 1 January 2024. According to a statement released by the Press and Information Office, during its four-month term until April 2024, the Cyprus Presidency will be in charge of organising, setting the agenda and coordinating the weekly meetings of the FSC, o ne of the two autonomous decision-making bodies of the OSCE, which deals with a wide range of issues of a political-military nature, with Cyprus being assisted in its work by Canada and Croatia, the outgoing and incoming Presidencies of the Forum respectively, forming with them the FSC Troika. Cypriots rate their life satisfaction at 7.2 out of 10 according to Eurostat Cyprus rated their overall life satisfaction on average at 7.2 out of 10, very close to the EU average, according to a subjective well-being indicator which is collected by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union, as a part of its statistics on income and living conditions. In 2022, people in the EU rated their overall life satisfaction on average at 7.1 points on a scale from 0 (very dissatisfied) to 10 (very satisfied). For 18 out of the 27 EU countries overall life satisfaction was rated above (16 member states) or the same (two member states) as the EU average. Cyprus does not interpret ICJ ruling in South Africa lawsuit against Israel Cyprus neither anticipates nor seeks to interpret beforehand the outcome of the legal aspects of war conflicts, which are brought before the competent international judicial bodies, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Theodoros Gotsis told the CNA when asked to comment South Africa's genocide case against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) based in The Hague last Thursday. Speaking to CNA on Monday, Gotsis said "Cyprus, following the general practice of states in similar cases, does not prejudge or seek to interpret in advance the outcome of the legal aspects of such war conflicts, which are brought before the competent international judicial bodies". Beer deliveries in Cyprus in 2023 rise by 1.5%, driven be exports Total beer sales in Cyprus rise by 1.5% in 2023, driven mainly by exports which in 2023 rose by almost 9%. According to data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat), total beer deliveries in 2023 amounted to 42.13 million litres compared with 41.49 milli on in 2022. Cyprus records largest annual increase in exports among EU states in November Cyprus recorded the highest annual increase in exports among the member states of the EU in November 2023 compared to November 2022, while also recording the second highest increase in imports in the same period, while most other member states saw both their exports and imports drop, according to estimates published by Eurostat. In particular, in November 2023, compared with November 2022, all but four member states registered decreases in exports. Tuesday 16 January 2024 President to meet with UNSG personal envoy on January 30 President, Nikos Christodoulides, will hold a meeting with the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, on Tuesday, January 30, Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, announced on Tuesday, during a press briefing at the Presidential Palace. He went on to say that "the appointment of a Personal Envoy by the UN Secretary-General is an important development, especially after a period of prolonged, unfortunately, deadlock in the Cyprus issue." Spokesman: Cyprus has nothing to do with Britain's operations against Houthis The Republic of Cyprus has nothing to do with or is involved with Britain's military operations against the Houthis, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Tuesday, noting at the same time that the impact both on the country's economy and internationally from the Houthi attacks is evident. Answering questions during today's briefing to the media, at the Presidential Palace, the Spokesman was asked about the impact on the Cypriot economy of the situation in relation to the Houthi attacks. Finance Minister takes part in Eurogroup - Ecofin meetings EU Finance Ministers, including Cypriot Minister Makis Keravnos, have said that gradual recovery is expected in 2024, but have warned that this will be in an environment of heightened uncertainty and risks due to geopolitical turbulence Keravnos participated in a Eurogroup me eting on Monday and the Economic and Financial Affairs Council of the EU (Ecofin) which was held on Tuesday in Brussels, according to a Finance Ministry press release released on Tuesday. According to the press release, the ministers in Ecofin focused on the main economic policy priorities for 2024, in the context of the European Semester. Tensions in the Red Sea pose risks for inflationary pressures, FinMin tells CNA Tensions in the Red Sea trade route pose risks for inflationary pressures but no projections can be made for the impact as developments are ongoing, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos told CNA from Brussels. Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea prompted shipping companies to reroute their vessels from the Red Sea via the Cape of Good hope, driving freight rates upwards, creating concerns over new inflationary pressures. Study for the Great Sea Interconnector project to be presented Representatives of the international firm that prepared the study for the Great Sea Interconnector project (former EuroAsia Interconnector) will be in Cyprus in the next few days to present it to the Presidency of the Republic, the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Finance. Minister of Energy, George Papanastasiou, told CNA that after the presentation of the study "the Republic of Cyprus will immediately decide, whether or not to participate in the whole project". "The time frame we have set to make our decision is until the end of January," he said, adding that after the decision is taken "we will give the appropriate message to the Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE), which is the implementing body of the whole project". Eurostat: Tourism sees annual growth of more than 20% in 2023 Tourism in Cyprus increased by more than 20% in 2023 compared to 2022, the second largest growth in the EU, as tourism rebounds across Europe after the COVID-19 pandemic, according to early estimates published by Eurostat based on the data that is so far available for 2023. Compared wi th 2022, nearly all EU members recorded an increase in 2023, with Luxembourg being the only member state that recorded a small decrease (-0.1%). NPLs remain unchanged at pound 2 billion in October amid rising interest rates Non-performing loans in the Cyprus banking system remained essentially unchanged at pound 2 billion in October 2023, marking a marginal reduction of just pound 2 million, in an environment of rising interest rates. According to data released by the Central Bank of Cyprus on Tuesday, delinquent loans in October amounted to pound 2,015 million from pound 2,017 the month before. FM in Vienna for OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation Chairmanship opening Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos departs for Vienna on Tuesday, where he will attend the official opening of the Cyprus Presidency of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). According to a Foreign Affairs Ministry press release, during the period January - Apri l 2024 Cyprus will chair the Forum, which, together with the OSCE Permanent Council, are the two autonomous decision-making bodies of the Organisation. EU Health Data Space coordination a recognition of work done in RoC says Health Minister The coordination of the Joint Action towards the European Health Data Space by Cyprus is a recognition of the work done in the country at the technical level, and especially in the legislative framework, said Health Minister Michael Damianou during his address at the ''Athens Digital Health Week 2024' conference, which was read on his behalf by the President of the National eHealth Authority of Cyprus Christos Schizas. Wednesday 17 January 2024 UN believes it is possible to find mutually acceptable solution in Cyprus, Stewart says The UN believes that it is possible to find a mutually acceptable solution to the Cyprus problem and we have not given up after 60 years, Colin Stewart, Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus said Wednesday. Speaking to reporters after informing the UNSG, he said that he had a very good meeting with the Security Council, they had a lot of questions, and showed a lot of support for the work of the UN in Cyprus. UNSG Envoy will visit various capitals, Guterres' spokesperson says UNSG Envoy on Cyprus María Angela Holguín Cuellar will visit various capitals, SG's Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told the press Wednesday. During the press briefing in New York, Dujarric said that Colin Stewart, the Secretary-General's Special Representative and Head of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus briefed the Security Council in closed consultations. FM Kombos attends inaugural session of OSCE Forum under Cypriot Presidency Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos participated on Wednesday in the inaugural session of the Cypriot Presidency of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The session took place in Vienna at the OSCE headquarters, in the presence of the OSCE Secretary-General Helga Schmid. Bilateral strategic cooperation stressed in House President's Paris visit The strategic cooperation between Cyprus and France in the key sectors of security, defence, energy, tourism, trade and education and the mutual will to further deepen them, were emphasised by the President of the Parliament Annita Demetriou and French officials, with whom she met on Wednesday as part of her visit to France. According to a press release issued by the House of Representatives, Demetriou held a series of meetings on Wednesday accompanied by the Ambassador of Cyprus to France, Pavlos Kombos. Cyprus sends humanitarian aid to Armenia Cyprus has sent humanitarian aid worth pound 15,200 to Armenia through the European Civil Protection Mechanism. A press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Civil Defence said that "Cyprus could not remain uninvolved in the call of the European Civil Protection Mechanism to send humanitarian aid to the people of Armenia follo wing the recent dramatic events and the displacement of more than 100,000 people from the Nagorno-Karabakh region to Armenia as a result of the Azerbaijani military operation". EU Affairs Dep. Minister takes office ahead of second Cyprus EU Presidency preparations The second Cyprus EU Presidency should place Cyprus in the hard core of the European Union with concrete initiatives and coherent action to lead the Council, taking the unification process one step further, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, said in his speech on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. President Christodoulides congratulated Raouna, noting that the appointment of the Deputy Minister for European Affairs marks the official start of preparations for the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of EU in the first half of 2026. RoC committed to One China Policy, FM Spokesman tells CNA The Republic of Cyprus rem ains committed to the One China Policy, and supports peace and security in the Taiwan Strait, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Theodoros Gotsis, told CNA. Replying to a question by CNA, he said that "in relation to the voting held in Taiwan on January 12, we wish to reiterate that the Republic of Cyprus remains committed to the One China Policy, and supports peace and security in the Taiwan Strait". Demand for loans continues to decline amid high interest rates, CBC survey shows Demand for loans in Cyprus continued its downward trajectory in the third quarter of 2023 affected by the ECB's restrictive monetary policy and recurring interest rate hikes. Furthermore, according to the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) Bank Lending Survey, the banks' lending standards remained unchanged to the current strict levels for corporations but tightened even more for households, with participating bans expecting a further decline in demand for new lending and even more tighter lending standards in the fourth quar ter of 2023. Harmonized Inflation slows down at 1.9% in December 2023 In December 2023, the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices in Cyprus slowed down at 1.9%, reaching its lowest point since June 2021. Compared to November 2023, the index registered a decrease of 1.2%. Bad cheques of a value of pound 1.7 million in 2023 In 2023, 356 bad cheques, of a value of pound 1,767,912 were issued and 231 persons (136 legal ?a? 95 natural) were included in the preliminary Central Information Register (CIR) list of the Central Bank of Cyprus. According to data released by the Central Bank on Wednesday the number of bad cheques issued in 2023 (356) was lower in relation to 2022 (473), 2021 (363) and 2020 (454). Cyprus had in 2022 the fourth largest ratio of private cars per population in EU Cyprus was the country with the fourth highest number of passenger cars per population in 2022, with 658 cars per 1000 inhabitants, well above the average number in the EU which stood at 560 vehicles per 1000 inhabitants, accordi ng to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. At the EU level, the average number increased by 14.3% during the decade 2012 - 2022 (from 490 to 560 passenger cars per 1 000 inhabitants).? Inflation in Cyprus dropped to 1.9% in December according to Eurostat The annual inflation rate in Cyprus stood at 1.9% in December 2023, down from 2.4% in November, while a year earlier, in December 2022, it stood at 7.6%, according to the latest figures released by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. The eurozone annual inflation rate was 2.9% in December 2023, up from 2.4% in November. Thursday 18 January 2024 There should be objective presentation of facts by the UN, Letymbiotis says Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis on Thursday, expressed the position that there should be an objective presentation by the UN of the real situation and facts, noting that the Republic of Cyprus remains committed to the effort to create conditions for the start of neg otiations for a solution to the Cyprus issue, based on the agreed framework. Asked by CNA to comment on Wednesday's statements by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and head of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), Colin Stewart, after briefing the Security Council in New York, Letymbiotis noted that the Government was waiting for the final text of the Security Council resolution. Greek Cypriot negotiator holds meetings in New York Greek Cypriot negotiator Menelaos Menelaou is holding meetings in New York this week with representatives of permanent and non-permanent UN Security Council members as well as with officials of the UN Secretariat, the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) has learned. Menelaou's meetings are taking place in view of the discussions and the deliberations at the UN Security Council on the Cyprus issue and the resolution that will be adopted and by which the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) will be renewed at the end of this month, as well as i n view of the first visit to Cyprus for meetings of the UNSG's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar. Congress members urge Biden to welcome the Cypriot President to the White House Greek-American US Congress members of the Hellenic Caucus have sent a letter to US President Joe Biden, urging him to formally welcome the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, to the White House, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. A formal state visit will shine a powerful light on the peace building that remains to be done in Cyprus and will demonstrate America's broad interest in peaceful conflict resolution across the globe, aChris Pappas, John Sarbanes, Gus Bilirakis, Nicole Malliotakis and Dina Titus said in their letter. Cyprus House President awards medal, advocates women's rights in Paris visit ?he President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou awarded the Medal of the House to former President and current Member of the Committee on Foreign Aff airs, Defence, and Armed Forces, Senator Christian Cambon, during a special ceremony at the French Senate. Demetriou concluded on Thursday her meetings, as part of her official visit to Paris. Agr. Minister highlights importance of climate resilience at informal EU meeting Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou highlighted the importance of integrating climate resilience into key sectors, especially agriculture and urban development, in her intervention at the informal meeting of EU Environment Ministers in Brussels, organised by the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU on 15 and 16 January 2024. In a press release, circulated by the Press and Information Office, participants discussed the European Climate Risk Assessment (EUCRA) report to ensure that future EU policies actively consider and assess the acceptable level of risk and inform about the EU's next policy options. Borrell: Turkey should avoid tension and normalise relations with Cyprus The European Com mission has called on Turkey to cease all threats and actions that harm good neighbourly relations, normalise its relations with the Republic of Cyprus and respect the sovereign rights of all member states, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said in a written reply to a question by MEP Demetris Papadakis. According to a statement by the MEP, Papadakis asked the Commission to take measures to protect the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus, following the provocative actions of the Turkish-occupying forces in the so-called "buffer zone" in Agios Dometios. Construction materials prices in Cyprus up 2.91% in December 2023 The Price Index of Construction Materials recorded a 2.91% increase in December 2023, compared to the corresponding period in 2022, as reported by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. The significant surge of the index in 2023 is primarily attributed to price hikes in various materials, such as portland cement (39.39%), pavement slabs, mosaics, an d bricks (14.61%), gravel and sand aggregate (13.89%), crushed gravel (12.63%), and ready-mix concrete (12.13%). Foundation for the Management of EU Programs unveils new Erasmus+ projects The Foundation for the Management of EU Lifelong Learning Programs announced on Thursday the management of the new Erasmus+ Programs for youth, the European Solidarity Corps and the European Portal Eurodesk. A press release said that the President of the Board of Directors of the Foundation Dr. Petros Pashiardis noted that since its establishment, the Foundation has managed the European Erasmus+ Program and provides opportunities for mobility and collaborations in the fields of school education, vocational education and training , of higher education, adult education and sports. He added that with the management of the new Programs, the Foundation will continue to take action in informing all interested parties, supporting them in applying and managing their approved projects. Waste export from Cyprus increased in 2022, w hile decreasing slightly in EU In 2022, the EU exported 32.1 million tonnes of waste to non-EU countries (a slight decrease of 3% compared with 2021), while imports of waste from non-EU countries decreased by 5% since 2021, amounting to 18.7 million tonnes, according to annual data on trade in waste released by Eurostat. Cyprus exported 81.9 thousand tonnes of waste to non-EU countries in 2022, an increase of 18% compared to 2021 (69.5 thousand tonnes). Deputy Social Welfare Minister informs EU counterparts on MGI upgrading The significance that the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare attaches to the integration of beneficiaries into society through the Social Intervention Mechanism, which is already in operation, was stressed by the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Marilena Evangelou during her participation on Thursday, at the Belgian EU Presidency's Ministerial Conference in Brussels, on "Investing in an inclusive and fair future for Europe - Minimum Guaranteed Income: Towards a safety net for all". Acco rding to an official statement, in the framework of the Conference, the perspectives and challenges at European level were discussed regarding the design and implementation of an effective and adequate Minimum Guaranteed Income (MGI). Friday 19 January 2024 Gas flaring carried out in "Cronos 2" target in Cyprus' EEZ ENI's drilling in "Cronos-2" target in Cyprus' exclusive economic zone (EEZ) block 6 seems to have discovered a natural gas reservoir with sources telling CNA that gas flaring was carried out yesterday. The same sources told CNA that flaring signifies that a natural gas deposit has been discovered. UK Defence Secretary assures of Cyprus safety amid concerns UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, said on Friday that they were doing everything possible to ensure the safety and security of Cyprus, invited to comment on concerns regarding the security of the island, following operations launched from the British Bases in Akrotiri targeting the Houthi forces. Replying to journalists' questions after his meeting with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, and the Minister of Defence Vasilis Palmas, at the Presidential Palace, Shapps stated that the Houthi weapons, which haven't even been able to reach Israel, posed no imminent danger to Cyprus. Treasury sets significant targets in its priorities, Accountant-General tells CNA The Cyprus Treasury has set significant projects in its medium and long-term agenda that would facilitate more efficient and effective management of public resources and streamline public tenders, Andreas Antoniades, the new Accountant-General told the Cyprus News Agency. In an interview with CNA on the occasion of his appointment, Antoniades highlighted projects such as increasing joint procurement by various department of the public sector, to achieve economies of scale, a gradual transition to accrual accounting by 2027 that would better reflect public financial statements, as well as strengthening financial management systems that would enable a smooth t ransition to the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). We want to let diplomacy work, Antoniou tells CNA on Russian decision The government wants to let diplomacy work, Deputy Government Spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou told CNA on Friday, in relation to Thursday's decision by the Russian government to ban Interior Ministry officials from entering the country. Asked to comment on the decision, Antoniou said that the Government does not want to comment further on the issue, which, he said, is being handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We are working to have concrete results for resumption of talks, Cyprus President says President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said Friday that the Greek Cypriot side is working to welcome the personal envoy of the UN Secretary-General in order to have concrete results towards the resumption of the Cyprus talks. The President, who was arriving at an event in memory and honour of Cyprus first President, Archbishop Makarios III, was invited by journalists to reply to Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar's claims against the Greek Cypriot side, saying "I don't have anything to answer to Mr. Tatar, I hope that no excuses -in quotes or without quotes- are needed due to the arrival to Cyprus of the personal envoy of the United Nations". Cyprus FM holds telephone conversation with Guyanese counterpart Cyprus' Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, on Friday, congratulated, in a telephone conversation, his Guyanese counterpart, Hugh Hilton Todd, for the start of Guyana's term as member of the UN Security Council, the Foreign Ministry said in a post on X. According to the Ministry, Kombos congratulated Todd for the start of Guyana's term as member of the UN Security Council. The objective is the reunification of Cyprus, President Christodoulides says The sole objective is the liberation and reunification of Cyprus on the basis of the agreed framework of the relevant United Nations resolutions and the principles and values of the European Union, President of the Republic of Cyp rus, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Friday. The President was addressing an event in memory and honour of Archbishop Makarios III, first President of the Republic of Cyprus, where keynote speaker was Archbishop of Cyprus, Georgios. " RoC handling ban on entry case through diplomatic channels, Spokesperson says Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis on Friday said that the Republic of Cyprus was handling through diplomatic channels a ban on entry into Russia of three officials of the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Cyprus, noting that it was necessary to 'allow diplomacy work.' In his statements to journalists at the Presidential Palace, when asked about the matter, the Spokesperson said that this was 'not a pleasant development'. He noted that the ban concerns three officials who were not related with the essence of the case, but were involved in the implementation of the decisions of the competent authorities. Cyprus and UK Defense Ministers discuss Eastern Mediterranean, Red Sea, U kraine Cyprus Minister of Defense Vasilis Palmas met on Friday with the Minister of Defense of the United Kingdom Grant Shapps who is visiting Cyprus and met also with President Nikos Christodoulides. A statement says that the Ministers discussed issues of bilateral interest, the situation in the wider eastern Mediterranean region, the Red Sea region and Ukraine. Palmas informed his British counterpart about the security situation on the territory of the Republic of Cyprus and Turkey's uncompromising stance on the Cyprus issue, with particular reference to the withdrawal of the Turkish side from the understanding regarding Pyla. Sound economy necessary to continue anti-occupation struggle, says Minister A strong economy is necessary in order to continue the anti-occupation struggle for the reunification of our country, for which the cohesion of the society is also necessary, Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou said on Friday. Addressing an event in the village of Panagia, in Paphos district, for the name da y of the first President of the Republic, Archbishop Makarios III, the Minister said that this struggle to reunite our island continues because Turkey is still very unwavering in its expansionist policy. Invest Cyprus joins Climate FDI Coalition Invest Cyprus will participate in the new Climate FDI Coalition created in the framework of the Davos Climate Forum (Climate FDI Coalition). The proposal to create a Coalition is backed by 14 heads of investment organisations representing 300 million citizens who are committed to leading around investment in climate-aligned growth and development. Saturday 20 January 2024 Positive signs from ENI's drilling in Cyprus' EEZ says President President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides, spoke about positive indications from the drilling conducted by energy company ENI at the "Cronos 2" target within Block 6 of Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Speaking on Saturday in Inia, Paphos, where he attended the inauguration ceremony of various projects in the community, President Christodoulides urged for patience ahead of an official update from the Italian company. Cyprus Stock Exchange Chairman outlines growth strategies in CNA interview Chairman of the Cyprus Stock Exchange (CSE) Marinos Christodoulides, highlighted two key pillars for the development of the financial institution in Cyprus, in an interview with the Cyprus News Agency. Christodoulides stressed the importance of privatising the Stock Exchange through the attraction of renowned foreign stock exchanges as major stakeholders. Sunday 21 January 2024 President points to new "window of opportunity" for Cyprus settlement The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, pointed on Saturday to a new "window of opportunity" for a solution of the Cyprus problem, following the appointment of the new personal envoy of the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres. At the same time, he said he acknowledged the existing challenges and problems. Monday 22 January 2024 FM reiterates Cyprus' readiness to contribute to delivery of aid to Gaza Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos reiterated Cyprus' readiness to contribute to the continuous and safe delivery of humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza, noting that the use of the humanitarian sea corridor remains a credible option in this direction. Kombos participated Monday in the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, which discussed the situation in the Middle East and the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, an announcement says. FM meets Palestinian counterpart, humanitarian aid and peace process on agenda Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos discussed with his Palestinian counterpart Riyad al Maliki the humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza, via the prospect of dedicated maritime routes. The meeting took place in the margins of the Foreign Affairs Council and as Kombos posted on platform X, he stressed need to revive Middle East peace process, on the basis of a two-state solution in line with UNSC resolutions. Kombos discuss es bilateral cooperation with Slovak counterpart Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos met Monday with his Slovak counterpart Juraj Blanár with whom he discussed ways to enhance the bilateral cooperation. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels and Minister Kombos posted on platform X that he had a positive exchange with his Slovak colleague and they reaffirmed the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries. European Fisheries Control Agency ED visits Cyprus Director of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (DFA) Marina Argyrou, met with Dr. Susan Steele Executive Director of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) last week, it was announced on Monday. During the meeting, that was held in Nicosia, Argyrou pointed out that it comes a few months after the EFCA patrol boat landed in the area of the Eastern Levantine and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Republic of Cyprus, which is very important and can be a focal point for further cooperation for fisheries control in the area both at bilateral level and in the framework of the Common Fisheries Control Programme. Commission green lights law on reduced VAT for primary residence The European Commission has given the green light for the law approved by the Parliament concerning the reduced VAT rate of 5% for the acquisition primary residence, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos said on Monday. In June 2023 the parliament approved a law imposing a reduced VAT rate of 5% for the first 130 square metres of a primary residence which was put in effect in November 2023. CySEC President: Cyprus first in EU in cross-border investment services Cyprus is ranked first, among the EU member states, in providing cross-border investment services, the President of the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) George Theocharides, told the Press on Monday, after the session of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, where he presented the Commission's budget for 2024. Theocharides noted that CySEC wil l promote a regulatory framework regarding crypto-assets from 2025, since by the end of 2024 the process of implementing the parameters of the relevant European regulation, which was voted by the European Parliament in June 2023, is expected to be completed. CCLEI remains positive but decelerating in Q4, 2023 The year-over-year growth rate of the Cyprus Composite Leading Economic Index (CCLEI), constructed by the Economics Research Centre (ERC) of the University of Cyprus, remains positive, albeit decelerating throughout the last quarter of 2023. The ongoing slowdown of the CCLEI underlines the challenges posed by a burdened geopolitical and unstable economic environment to the growth prospects of the Cypriot economy, ERC notes. Tuesday 23 January 2024 It is high time for peace in Cyprus, PoR says before PACE asking for its support It is high time for peace, all Cypriots - Greek and Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians, Latins - deserve the same human rights and fundamental freedoms as all other Europe ans, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides stressed on Tuesday addressing the Plenary Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), and asking for the support and tangible contribution of PACE "as we strive for peace". In his address, the President referred to the Cyprus problem, saying that Cyprus, for the past fifty years, we have been experiencing the tragic consequences of the violation of basic human rights and freedoms since "fifty years after the barbaric Turkish invasion in 1974 in European Cyprus, there is still occupation, there are still displaced persons, missing persons, and enclaved persons". Christodoulides reaffirms 'firm commitment' for close collaboration with CoE Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, who is in Strasbourg to address the winter session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), reaffirmed on Tuesday the Republic of Cyprus' 'firm commitment' to maintain close collaboration with the CoE in its efforts for the protection of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. According to a Presidency press release, in the morning, President Christodoulides, visited the Council of Europe where he was welcomed by the new PACE President, Theodoros Roussopoulos, the PACE Secretary-General, Despina Chatzivassiliou-Tsovilis, and the Secretary-General of the CoE, Marija Pejcinovic. President discussed Cyprus problem-ECHR with Greek and Cypriot MPs Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides had a working breakfast on Tuesday in Strasbourg with the group of Cypriot MPs that represent the House of Representatives in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, as well as with Greek MPs Dora Bakoyannis and Georgios Mylonakis, before his contacts with the leadership of the organisation. The President and the Cypriot and Greek MPs discussed, among other things, the latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem, issues of interest to the Council of Europe, and the importance of implementing the ECHR's decisions. International firm conf irms Great Sea Interconnector's feasibility An international advisory firm commissioned by the Ministry of Energy has confirmed the feasibility of the Great Sea Interconnector, a sub-sea electricity interconnector linking Cyprus, Israel and Greece. The results of a feasibility assessment carried out by the firm, were presented in the Presidential Palace in the presence of Minister of Energy George Papanastasiou. Turkish Cypriot 'isolation' due to Turkish invasion and occupation, President says Any violation of Turkish Cypriot human rights or 'isolation' is driven by the 1974 Turkish invasion and continuing occupation, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides told the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly. Responding to questions by PACE members following his address before the Assembly in Strasbourg, Christodoulides said in the coming days he will announce unilateral measures for the Turkish Cypriots and called on the Turkish Cypriot community to send 'the right messages to Turkey.' Cyprus President d iscusses with ECHR President decisions implementation President Nikos Christodoulides discussed issues related to the implementation of the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights, in a meeting with the president of the court, Siofra O' Leary in Strasbourg, on Tuesday, shorty after his intervention before the plenary of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Cypriot and British FMs hold telephone conversation Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and his British counterpart, David Cameron, held a telephone conversation on Tuesday on issues discussed in the framework of the dialogue between the two countries. ''Good exchange today between FM Constantinos Kombos and UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron on pertinent files of the continuous dialogue between Cyprus and the UK,'' a post of the Cypriot Foreign Ministry on platform X said. Good exchange today between FM @CKombos and UK Foreign Secretary @David_Cameron on pertinent files of the continuous dialogue between Cyprus and the UK . House President congratulates new PACE President House of Representatives President, Annita Demetriou, has congratulated the newly elected President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), Greek MP Theodoros Roussopoulos, expressing her confidence that he will lead the PACE with a view to defending the principles and values of the Council of Europe. In a congratulatory letter Demetriou conveyed her own and the members of the House of Representatives congratulations for the unanimous election of Roussopoulos to the Presidency of the PACE, Demetriou and expressed confidence that Roussopoulos will lead the Assembly with a view to upholding the principles and values of the Council of Europe and that, under his leadership, the Assembly will respond adequately to today's complex challenges. Kombos-Shoukry hold extensive discussions on bilateral relations and Middle East Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos and Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry had on Tuesday extensive discussio ns on further enhancing strategic bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East. Kombos wrote on platform X that he met today with Sameh Shoukry in Brussels in the margins of the EU-Egypt Association Council and that the two held "extensive discussions on further enhancing Cyprus-Egypt strategic bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East including the need to revive the peace process." AGRIFISH discusses trade in agriculture products and EU agriculture strategy Trade in agricultural products, the debate on the EU agriculture strategy and the proposal for a Regulation establishing the monitoring framework for resilient European forests were on the agenda of the AGRIFISH council which convened Tuesday in Brussels. Cyprus was represented by Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Maria Panagiotou. Cypriot official takes part in EU informal Foreign Affairs Council The EU's informal Foreign Affairs Council, made up of Trade Ministers, took place on Tuesday in Brussel s. Cyprus was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Marios Panayides. The discussions focused on the preparations for the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization to be held in Abu Dhabi between 26 and 29 February 2024, the Ministry said in a press release. President promotes initiatives leading to dialogue for a Cyprus settlement, says Minister The President of the Republic is working intensively, promoting initiatives that will create the conditions that will lead us to dialogue on the Cyprus problem, Minister of the Interior Konstantinos Ioannou said on Tuesday during a speech at an event of the Pancyprian Refugee Union. At the same time, he said the primary concern of the Christodoulides government is to support refugees. Wednesday 24 January 2024 President "does not comment on hypothetical scenarios" on measures for Turkish Cypriots President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday evening that he does no t comment on hypothetical scenarios regarding the measures for the Turkish Cypriots, adding that he will comment on the issue after the measures are announced, which is expected to take place within the next few days. Invited by reporters to say whether the measures for the Turkish Cypriots will include granting citizenship to children of mixed marriages, President Christodoulides told journalists to wait for the announcement of the measures that will be made in the next few days and that he will comment afterwards. House President: Reunification is the effective response to Turkish provocations The effective response to the usurpation of occupied properties and Turkish provocations in the fenced off city of Varosha, the buffer zone and the selling off of our land to foreign nationals could only be found through a sustainable and functional solution to the Cyprus issue, House President Annita Demetriou said on Tuesday, addressing an event organized by the Pancyprian Refugees Union. Demetriou noted that we a re not allowed to let even a single moment go to waste and that with ethos and sincerity we must declare our will and readiness for the resumption of the peace talks, especially at this period with the appointment of a special envoy by UN Secretary General. European Commission finances project for mental resilience of youth in Cyprus Minister of Health Michael Damianos thanked on Wednesday the European Commission for its decision to finance the project "Strengthening the Mental Resilience of Youth in Cyprus", and to provide relevant technical support to the Ministry of Health for the next two years, while he also thanked UNICEF, which undertook the implementation of the project. The project is funded by the European Commission following a request submitted by the Directorate of Nursing Services of the Ministry of Health and its results are expected to contribute significantly to the development of the National Mental Health Strategy and the field of mental resilience of the young population in Cyprus. Iran Ambassador stresses his country's principled stance on Cyprus issue The Ambassador of Iran to Cyprus reaffirmed his country's principled position and support to the efforts to reach a solution of the Cyprus problem, during a meeting held on Wednesday with President of the House Representatives Annita Demetriou. According to press release by the Parliament, Demetriou received the new Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Cyprus Alireza Salarian on the occasion of the assumption of his duties. Thursday 25 January 2024 Holguin's arrival marks new period of mobility on Cyprus issue, Spokesman says A period of mobility as regards the Cyprus problem begins with the arrival in Cyprus of the personal envoy of UN Secretary-General, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, said on Thursday, noting that the government enters this new period with sincere political will. Letymbiotis, who was replying to questions from journalists after a meeting of the Council of Ministe rs at the Presidential Palace, said that, in view of Holguin's arrival in Cyprus 'we are entering a new period, a period of mobility in the Cyprus issue which is what we sought from the very beginning.' FinMin welcomes payment to Cyprus of 20.9 million euro for REPowerEU measures The Minister of Finance has welcomed today's announcement by the European Commission regarding the payment to Cyprus of 20.9 million euro from the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism, as pre-financing linked to the REPowerEU funds under the Recovery and Resilience Facility. A press release by the Finance Ministry says that Cyprus has secured 104 million euro for financing the new REPowerEU Chapter within the framework of the national Recovery and Resilience Plan 'Cyprus - ?omorrow', for the implementation of additional reforms as well as new or upgraded incentive plans for energy upgrading as well as for the further promotion of electric mobility, with the implementation horizon being 2026. Migration requires a coherent European app roach, Letymbiotis says Migration remains a serious problem that requires a coherent European approach and policy, said on Thursday Cyprus' Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, expressing sorrow for the death of one of the three young girls who were rushed to hospital in poor condition on Wednesday after being rescued, along with other 57 people, who were on a boat off the southeast coast of Cyprus. In his statements after a Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace, Letymbiotis expressed the Government's shock 'for the unfair loss' of one of the three young girls who were treated at the Makarios Hospital in Nicosia. 'This new incident highlights once again in the most dramatic way, that migration remains a serious problem that demands a coherent European approach and policy', he said. Sustainable solutions on migration needed so that lives are saved, Commission tells CNA The latest tragedy off the coast of Cyprus underlines once more the need for long term and sustainable solutions when it com es to migration, European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper told the Cyprus News Agency. Hipper, responding to a question during the Commission's midday briefing, also referred to efforts made through the Action Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean migration route, as well as through outreach to third countries, but pointed out that member states are the ones that investigate the exact circumstances of such events. Commission paid 20.9 million euro for energy in Cyprus under REPowerEU The European Commission announced on Thursday the payment of 20.9 million euro in grants, as pre-financing linked to the REPowerEU funds under the Recovery and Resilience Facility, which will go towards saving energy and producing clean energy. This pre-financing will help to accelerate the implementation of key investment and reform measures described in the REPowerEU chapter of the national Recovery and Resilience Plan. Interior Minister asks EU for surveillance of sea border with Lebanon, returns to Syria Minister for t he Interior Konstantinos Ioannou reiterated the need for the European Union to take action together with third countries for stricter border surveillance, especially regarding the maritime border with Lebanon following the death of a child on board a boat rescued by the authorities off the coast of Cyprus, in his interventions during an informal meeting in Brussels. Ioannou reiterated the need to re-evaluate whether the return of Syrian refugees to the country should allowed, and emphasised the issue of returns in contacts with European officials. According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Interior, Ioannou participated in the first day of the informal meeting of Interior and Justice Ministers held on Thursday in Brussels, in the framework of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU. Losses of 20% in RoC from Aden-Suez crisis says Cyprus Ports Authority President The recent events concerning the crisis in the Gulf of Aden and the Suez Canal have resulted in losses for the Republic of Cypr us of around 20%, said the President of the Cyprus Ports Authority, Dr. Antonis Stylianou. He was speaking at a press conference at the Old Port of Limassol on Thursday, during which the work carried out by the outgoing Board of Directors of the Authority was presented. Commission launches 2024 EU Scholarship Programme for T/C students The European Commission announced the launch of the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community for the Academic Year 2024 - 25, with a budget of 5 million euro. Applications will be accepted until 2 April 2024 at 23:59 (Cyprus time). Applications can be submitted online via the EU Scholarships website ( www.euburs.eu ). Deputy Commissioner for Communications Galides takes over EMERG presidency After one year of co-chairing the European Mediterranean Regulators Group (EMERG) with Israel, Deputy Commissioner for Communications, Petros Galides, has officially taken over the chairmanship of the EMERG for the year 2024. EMERG was founded on July 1, 2008 in Malta, as an independent platform of the National Regulatory Authorities of the Mediterranean and European countries for electronic communications networks and services. Friday 26 January 2024 Government announces set of 14 measures with an impact on daily life of Turkish Cypriots The Government of Cyprus announced on Friday a set of 14 measures that concern a wide range of actions that impact the daily life of our Turkish Cypriot compatriots. According to an announcement by the Presidency, the measures have been formulated following an assessment of all relevant parameters, and will be implemented in line with national law, international law, and the European Union acquis. President: Measures convey the message that T/C are Republic of Cyprus citizens Turkish Cypriots are citizens of the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state, internationally recognized, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, explained on Friday shortly after the announcement of the 14-measure package for Turkish Cypriots. In statem ents in Nicosia, before attending an event organized by the Office of the European Parliament Office in Cyprus and asked about the message the Government wants to send to the Turkish Cypriots with the announcement of the measures, President Christodoulides emphasized that the Turkish Cypriots are citizens of the Republic of Cyprus and that the Government shows in practice that the Republic of Cyprus is an EU member state, internationally recognized and not a pseudo-state. UNSG's personal envoy to travel to Cyprus over the weekend The Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, will travel to Cyprus over the weekend for her first visit to the island since taking up her mandate earlier this month. This was announced by the UN Spokesperson at the noon briefing in New York on Friday. Cyprus President receives Deputy Prime Minister of the Holy See The migration issue, the crisis in the Middle East, and the initiative of the Republic of Cyprus for the transfer of humanita rian aid to the Palestinian people, were among the issues discussed on Friday by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, with the Deputy Prime Minister of the Holy See, Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, in their meeting at the Presidential Palace, according to a written statement by Deputy Government Spokesman, Yiannis Antoniou. During the meeting, the crisis in the Middle East and the situation in the wider region were discussed, he notes. 'President Christodoulides referred to the immigration pressures that the Republic of Cyprus receives from Syrian refugees coming from Lebanon, while he informed his interlocutors about the initiative of the Republic of Cyprus for the transfer of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people', he adds. Spokesperson conveys Nicosia's political will for talks' resumption The unilateral measures of the Republic of Cyprus concerning a wide range of subjects that concern the daily life of Turkish Cypriots, will be announced soon, Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Le tymbiotis, said on Friday, in his statements at an event organised by the Journalists' Union in Nicosia. He also said that the Government was entering into a new period beginning with the arrival of the new personal envoy of the UN Secretary-General, 'with a sincere political will to continue to contribute, to take initiatives' in order to create the conditions for the resumption of the talks from where they left off, on the agreed basis of a bicommunal bizonal federation with political equality. Cyprus top officials pledge to help increase participation in European elections The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides and the President of the House, Annita Demetriou, pledged on Friday to assist efforts to increase participation in the European Elections, while addressing in Nicosia the launch of the campaign of the European Parliament Office in Cyprus ahead of the June 9 elections. President Christodoulides said that on Monday, during his State of the Union address, he will announce, among others, two actions aiming to increase youth participation in the electoral process. Ministers to meet next week on Great Sea Interconnector, sources tell CNA The Minister of Finance Makis Keravnos and the Minister of Energy George Papanastasiou will have a meeting early next week, during which it will be decided, according to information available to CNA, whether or not the Republic of Cyprus will participate and with what amount in the Great Sea Interconnector (formerly EuroAsia Interconnector) project, which concerns the electrical interconnection, in the first phase, between Cyprus and Crete and, in the second phase, with Israel. Once a decision is taken at the ministers' meeting, the Energy Minister will, according to the same sources, submit a proposal to the Cabinet meeting, to be held under the President of the Republic next week, for approval. FinMin discusses bilateral relations strengthening with Greek Interior Minister Finance Minister Makis Keravnos exchanged views on bilateral relations between Cypr us and Greece and ways to further strengthen them with the Minister of Interior of Greece, Niki Kerameus, who is visiting Cyprus, on Friday. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance, during their meeting held at the Ministry in Nicosia, the two Ministers referred to the excellent relations between the two countries and the need for their continued strengthening for mutual benefit. US official holds meetings in Cyprus on maritime corridor to Gaza Curtis Ried, the Chief of Staff for the U.S. National Security Council (NSC) joined Republic of Cyprus and Israeli officials "for productive discussions on Cyprus's maritime assistance corridor concept". A US Embassy press release said on Friday that "the United States remains committed to working with Israel, the ROC, and other partners, including the United Nations, to address the acute humanitarian needs of civilians in Gaza". Cyprus MPs argue on SLAPPs and freedom of speech in PACE meeting Cypriot MPs Yiorgos Loukaides and Christiana Erotokri tou spoke about the importance of freedom of speech and on the increasing use of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) in Europe, during the works of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). Loukaides said that there is a steady increase in threats to media freedom, defamation and slander campaigns, but also SLAPPs, adding that cases related to such lawsuits are not prosecuted, as a result of which pluralism and the rule of law are affected, a press release issued by the House of Representatives said. Cypriot MP's recommendation of opinion on minors exploitation approved by PACE Cypriot parliamentarian Costis Efstathiou presented before the plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), a recommendation of opinion, on behalf of the Legal and Human Rights Committee, on the issue of the exploitation of minors in Europe, which was unanimously approved, a press release by the Parliament says. It includes the frequency and dangerous dimensions of the phenomenon of exploitation of minors in private and public institutions in Europe. Official says there is investment interest by TAQA for Great Sea Interconnector The Investment Fund of the United Arab Emirates (TAQA) has expressed interest in investing in the Great Sea Interconnector project, as well as in a number of other investment opportunities that are opening up in Cyprus, the Director of the Press Office of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Victor Papadopoulos, announced on Friday. The managing director of TAQA's Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Jasim Husain Thabet, and members of the company, had a meeting with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, on Friday morning, at the Presidential Palace. Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, George Papanastasiou, participated via video conference. Eurostat: 71% of internet users in Cyprus took measures to protect their data A total of 73% of EU internet users managed the access to their personal data o nline in some way in 2023 in at least one way, according to information released by Eurostat, on the occasion of the Council of Europe's Data Protection Day (28th January). In Cyprus, this share stood at 71% in 2023, a little under the EU average. Among other member states, the highest shares were observed in Finland and the Netherlands (both 93%), followed by Czechia (89%). Cyprus President pledges commitment for shipping's sector sustainable future President Nikos Christodoulides assured on Friday evening that the government is committed to work in full collaboration with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber and all stakeholders involved, towards ensuring Cyprus Shipping's sustainable future. The President was addressing an event for the 35th anniversary of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber. Sunday 28 January 2024 UNSG's personal envoy in Cyprus from Sunday evening The UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, arrives in Cyprus on Sunday evening, according to the UN in Cyprus. Th is is Holguin's first visit to the island since the announcement of her mandate in early January. Hope for Cyprus issue after UN SG's envoy appointment, Minister says Deputy Minister of Culture, Vasiliki Kassianidou, spoke of "a new period for the Cyprus problem with sincere political will", noting that the appointment of the UNSG's personal envoy for Cyprus, following the persistent efforts of the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides, leaves room for hope that there will be a constructive and productive discussion, which will create the conditions for resuming the talks from where they left off in 2017 in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Kassianidou referred to developments in the Cyprus problem during a speech at the memorial service of Loukis Akritas and the mayors and municipal councillors of Turkish occupied Morphou. Cyprus FM holds 'positive' discussions in Muscat The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, said he held positive and forward looking discussions in Muscat, Om an. In a post on X, he said he was 'delighted' to meet his counterpart, Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi in Muscat on Sunday where they held 'positive and forward-looking discussions'. He said these focused on 'boosting cooperation and further strengthening" bilateral ties. ICT the champion of growth in Cyprus, data show The Information and Telecommunication sector has been the undisputed champion of growth, as manifested by the GDP data published by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (CyStat), highlighting the momentum of the sector as a component of the Cypriot GDP. The rising performance in the ICT sector reflects the ever increasing importance of technology in economic activity coupled with the efforts of the government to attract the relocation of ICT companies in the island. Monday 29 January 2024 President announces more than 80 political actions for 2024 President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides announced on Monday more than 80 political actions that the government will promote in 2024, to improve the everyday life of citizens as well as legislative and other initiatives for the modernisation of the state and the institutions. The presentation of the "Cyprus in Focus-Annual Programme 2024" took place at the Presidential Palace in the presence of members of the House of Representatives, leaders or representatives of parliamentary parties, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, the leadership of the Judiciary, independent officials and institutions of the state, representatives of social partners, organised groups, professional associations, and personalities from the fields of economy, politics, education, foreign diplomatic missions and civil society. UNSG's Personal Envoy begins meetings in Nicosia The UNSG's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, began her meetings on the island Monday morning with a meeting with Head of UNFICYP, Colin Stewart. In a post on X by UN Cyprus, said "the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguín Cuéllar, arrived in the UN Protected Area today. She was welcomed by the Head of UNFICYP, Colin Stewart". Holguin is expected to meet with the two leaders and a broad range of civil society groups. Cyprus and Oman commit to expand cooperation The Foreign Ministers of Cyprus and Oman confirmed their commitment to further strengthen and expand cooperation between the two countries in various fields. The pledge was made during a working visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus Constantinos Kombos to Muscat. Vatican Embassy in Cyprus inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister of the Holy See The Embassy of the Vatican in Cyprus was inaugurated on Friday by the 3rd in command and Deputy Prime Minister of the Holy See, Edgar Peña Parra, in the presence of the Archbishop of Cyprus, numerous church and state officials and distinguished guests. According to a statement, the inauguration ceremony was preceded by a meeting of Archbishop Peña Parra with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides and the President of the House of Representative s, Annita Demetriou. "Today we inaugurate the Pope's home in geographically small but historically vast Cyprus," Peña Parra said at the Embassy's inauguration ceremony. Cyprus had lowest share of memory problems in EU, higher for risk of poverty Cyprus had the lowest percentage of people who reported moderate or severe difficulty with remembering or concentrating in 2022, at 5.7% compared to 14.9% estimated in the EU, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. However, the percentage of people reporting these issues in Cyprus was significantly higher among persons that ran the risk of poverty. Annual growth of 0.4% in total petroleum product sales in 2023 Total petroleum product sales in 2023 recorded a slight increase of 0.4% compared to 2022, according to Cyprus Statistical Service, while sales at petroleum service stations showed an annual increase of 1.9%. Specifically, according to the Statistical Service, aviation kerosene supplies increased by 15.2%, whil e increases were also recorded in sales of heavy fuel oil (41.5%), asphalt (14.5%), unleaded motor gasoline (4.7%) and road diesel (4.4%). EU Commissioner for Jobs and Social rights to visit Cyprus on Friday EU Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, will visit Cyprus on Friday, the European Commission has announced. Schmit is scheduled to meet Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Yiannis Panayiotou, speak at an event on Social Europe, meet national social partners and visit EU-funded social projects. EU Affairs Deputy Minister attends GAC in Brussels Cyprus Deputy Minister of European Affairs Marilena Raouna attended on Monday a meeting of the General Affairs Council of the European Union in Brussels, which discussed the priorities of the current Belgian EU Presidency, measures to defend European democracy, the annual dialogue on the rule of law and the upcoming European elections. In her intervention, the Deputy Minister described the priorities of the Belgian Presidency as particula rly important, stressing the importance that Cyprus attaches to the issues of migration and the defense of the rule of law, as well as to the issues of the competitiveness of the EU and ways to strengthen it. Tuesday 30 January 2024 UN Secretary General's Envoy willing to contribute to resumption of Cyprus talks The UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Cyprus, María Angela Holguín Cuellar, has expressed her readiness to contribute to the resumption of talks on the Cyprus issue and the search for common ground between the two sides, following her first meeting with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, in Nicosia. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the Colombian envoy said she was excited for her mission, noting her experience in her country that managed to resolve a 50-year conflict through a peace agreement, saying she was part of the team that achieved that. "I think I can collaborate and do my best to achieve good results for Cyprus," she said. President commits to restarting Cyprus talks during meeting with UN Envoy Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated his sincere political will and desire to continue contributing to the creation of conditions for the resumption of negotiations for the Cyprus problem, in his first meeting on Tuesday with the United Nations Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguín Cuéllar. The meeting took place at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, and the President expressed readiness to restart talks from where they left off, based on the UN Security Council resolutions and the concept of a bizonal bicommunal federation. Holguin can help with talks resumption efforts, President says The personal envoy of the UN Secretary General Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar can help in our effort to resume the talks for a Cyprus solution, President Nikos Christodoulides told reporters on Tuesday evening, speaking at an event organised by the Cyprus Army Officers Association in Kornos. President Christodoulides also welcomed the renewa l of UNFICYP's mandate by the UN Security Council, noting the reference to the type of a Cyprus settlement and the fact that it reaffirms all relevant resolutions in relation to the Cyprus settlement format. The most important thing is listening, UNSG's personal envoy says The most important thing is listening, not only the leaders, but also the people and the civil society, UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, said on Tuesday. Holguín, who was received earlier by President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides, also held a separate meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar. President says foreign policy must come hand in hand with strong defence force We cannot have a strong and reliable foreign policy without a robust defence force, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Tuesday evening at an event organised by the Association of Cyprus Army Officers. The President noted that in the current changing international environment, a country's foreig n policy is directly related to its defence policy and the state must maintain its capabilities in matters of defence and security. Greek Cypriot side is committed to the resumption of talks, House President says The President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou underlined on Tuesday the commitment of the Greek Cypriot side to the objective of resuming negotiations to reach a solution to the Cyprus problem during a meeting with the Lebanese Ambassador in Nicosia, Claude El Hajal, on the occasion of the assumption of her duties as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Cyprus. According to a House press release, Demetriou, referring to the current visit to Cyprus of the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, underlined the commitment of the Greek Cypriot side to the objective of resuming negotiations to reach a solution to the Cyprus problem, within the agreed framework and in line with the relevant UN resolutions for the benefit of all the Cypriot people. UN Security Council extends UNFICYP mandate u ntil January 31, 2025 The UN Security Council adopted on Tuesday a resolution by which the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) mandate, which expires on Wednesday, is renewed for one more year. Therefore the force's mandate is extended until January 31, 2025. UNSC encourages sides in Cyprus to engage constructively with Holguín The UN Security Council has welcomed the appointment of the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy to assume a good offices role on his behalf and further encouraged the sides to engage constructively with the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar in the search for common ground with the goal of returning to formal negotiations for a lasting settlement in Cyprus. The Council adopted on Tuesday a resolution by which it extended the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) mandate for one more year, until January 31, 2025. Foreign Ministry welcomes UNFICYP mandate renewal by UN Security Council The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed in a statement iss ued on Tuesday the unanimous adoption of United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 2723, which renews the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for another 12 months, until 31 January 2025. As stated, in its resolution, the Security Council reaffirms all relevant resolutions on Cyprus and recalls the importance of finding a viable, comprehensive and just solution on the basis of a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, as defined in the relevant resolutions. Palmas met Borrell in Brussels Minister for Defence, Vasilis Palmas, met the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Josep Borrell, on the sidelines of the informal meeting of the EU's Defence Ministers taking place in Brussels on Tuesday and Wednesday as part of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU. According to a post by the Ministry of Defence on X (formerly Twitter), Palmas 'briefed Borrell on the security situation in the Republic Cyprus'. The two officials also 'exchanged opinions on matters of foreign policy and security, focusing on the crisis in Ukraine, Israel and the Red Sea'. FinMin ready to meet all goals and especially those set for 2024, Minister says The Ministry of Finance is ready to meet all goals and especially those set in the 2024 annual programme, Minister of Finance Makis Keravnos stressed during statements at the Ministry of Finance. Asked whether the Ministry is ready to implement what the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, announced on Monday for the economy during his presentation of the "Cyprus in Focus-Annual Programme 2024", the Minister pointed out that "during the 11 months of governance, a lot has been done and solid foundations have been laid to continue the government's productive work". The President, he continued, has set specific goals, noting that "some goals may be considered ambitious but without goals we cannot have a specific strategy and policies to achieve them." "We must move forward with goals and making eve ry effort to implement them for the benefit of our country, our economy and our society", he went on to say. FINMIN and Ambassador of Jordan discuss economy and regional developments Minister of Finance Makis Keravnos held a meeting on Tuesday with Ambassador of Jordan in Cyprus Basheer F. Zoubi with whom he discussed about the economy and developments in the region. In statements after the meeting, Keravnos said they exchanged views on all issues concerning the two countries, including the developments in the region which affect the two countries. A total of 642 counterfeit euro banknotes withdrawn from circulation in 2023 In Cyprus, during 2023, 642 pieces of counterfeit euro banknotes of various denominations were withdrawn from circulation, the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) announced on Tuesday. According to CBC's annual bulletin on euro banknote counterfeiting, this figure is higher than that of 2022, representing an increase of 42.4%. Industrial production in Cyprus up by an annual 5% in November I ndustrial production in Cyprus rose by an annual 5% in November driven upwards by gains in all sectors, the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat) has said. According to data published by Cystat the Index in November reached 138.5 units (base 2015=100), recording an increase of 4.8% compared to November 2022. Fossil fuel use increase in both EU and Cyprus in 2022 The ratio of fossil fuels in gross available energy increased slightly both in the EU and in Cyprus in 2022, a trend which signified a small increase in Europe's reliance on fossil fuels for its overall energy supply, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the European Union. The year 2022 was the first full calendar year after major restrictions related to COVID-19 were lifted, and was also marked by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and price spikes of various energy commodities. EU project coordinated by CUT among three finalists for SALTO AWARDS The European project VRTEACHER - Virtual Reality-based Training to impro vE digitAl Competences of teacHERs, which is coordinated by the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT), was selected among numerous Erasmus projects fr?m all European Countries to be among the three finalists for the SALTO AWARDS 2023 in the category of Digital Transformation. Wednesday 31 January 2024 UNFICYP stands by UNSG's reports, Spokesperson tells CNA The reports of the UN Secretary General speak for themselves and UNFICYP stands by them, Spokesperson Aleem Siddique has told CNA on Wednesday. Invited to comment on statements by Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar and the Turkish Foreign Ministry's press release on the adoption of the resolution renewing UNFICYP's mandate for a further year, Siddique said "on the range of issues that have been raised, those were reported on in the SG's report and we stand by them." He added, "the report speaks for itself, we stand by the report." Commenting on the contacts the Personal Envoy of the Secretary General, María Ángela Holguín Cuellar will have on Wednesday, Siddique said she will have separate meetings with the two negotiators from both sides. Cyprus talks soon if Turkish Cypriot side has similar will, Spokesman tells CNA If there is the same political will from the Turkish Cypriot side, the resumption of negotiations from the point where they have been interrupted can be achieved soon, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis told CNA on Wednesday. Asked after the initial contacts of UN Secretary General's Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar in Cyprus on Tuesday, whether there are prospects for the resumption of talks, bearing in mind that the Turkish Cypriot side insists on a two-state solution, Letymbiotis said that these statements are known. The main changes in the new resolution for the renewal of UNFICYP's mandate The new resolution for the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), that was adopted on Tuesday, contains a series of changes compared to the corresponding resolution adopted in Ja nuary 2023, which concern the promotion of the peace process for the Cyprus issue, the de-escalation of tensions and addressing socio-economic inequalities on the island. One of the most important changes regards the reference to the appointment of the UNSG's personal envoy, which the UNSC welcomes. Holguin continues her contacts in Cyprus with meetings with negotiators UNSG's personal envoy for Cyprus María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar continued on Wednesday her contacts on the island with meetings with the negotiators of the two sides in Cyprus. Holguin held in the morning a meeting with Greek Cypriot negotiator Menelaos Menelaou, which lasted a little more than one hour. Defence Minister discusses Ukraine, Red Sea with counterparts at Foreign Affairs Council The situation in Ukraine and in the Red Sea and the European Defence Industrial Strategy were discussed in the informal meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council, composed of Defence Ministers, in Brussels, on January 30-31, where Cyprus' Defence Minister, Vasilis Palmas participated. Defence Ministers were informed about the current situation in Ukraine and discussed future commitments of EU and member-states regarding security, a relevant announcement notes. Solutions to facilitate crossings of enclaved persons to be announced soon, official says Soon there will be an announcement to solve the problem with the crossings of enclaved and resettled people from the government-controlled areas to the Turkish-occupied part of Cyprus, said the Head of Humanitarian Affairs for Missing and Enclaved Persons, Anna Aristotelous, during a meeting she had with local authorities. Economic sentiment improved in January 2024 finds Economic Research Centre Economic sentiment in Cyprus improved, according to the Economics Research Centre of the University of Cyprus, which notes that improvement is mainly driven by confidence gains in services. In a press release, the ERC notes that the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI-CypERC) increased by 2.3 points compared with December 2023. The Retail Trade Confidence Indicator rose marginally as a result of upward revisions in sales expectations, despite a deterioration in firms' assessment of stock levels. Tourism revenue in first 11 months of 2023 surpass 2019 record Revenue from tourism for the period of January - November edged close to pound 3 billion, surpassing the historic record for the full year of 2019 (2.68 billion), data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat) show. According to Cystat, revenue from tourism for the eleven months of 2023 amounted to pound 2.91 billion, marking an increase of 22.5% year on year. Industrial output prices decelerate in 2023 as inflation subsides Industrial Output prices rose by 4.5% in 2023, marking a significant deceleration in price increases in the industry sector, due to declining inflation. The Index of Industrial Output amounted to 22.6% last year fueled by rising prices mainly in energy due to the war in Ukraine. Private debt in Cyprus at 206% of GDP in Q3 2023 Private debt in Cyprus, debt of households and non-financial corporations, amounted to 206% of Cyprus' GDP in the third quarter of 2023, remaining broadly stable, according to the quarterly financial accounts released by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC). According to the CBC, Household financial assets in the third quarter of 2023 amounted to pound 57 billion, of which 57% was in cash deposits and loans, 2% in bonds, 22% in stocks and 19% in other financial assets. Source: Cyprus News Agency