Nicosia: The most pressing economic and technological challenges for Cyprus and Europe were the focal points of discussions on Thursday during the first half of the second day of the Cyprus Forum, held at the Old Town Hall in Nicosia. The event was attended by government members, academic and business community guests, and officials from European and international organizations.
According to Cyprus News Agency, during the day’s initial discussion on Cyprus’s main priorities and legislative initiatives in innovation, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy Nicodemos Damianou emphasized the importance of digital policy, competitiveness, and space discussions. Damianou highlighted Europe’s need to transition from a regulatory-driven identity to a competitive continent, with a new digital regulatory framework that includes laws on artificial intelligence, the Digital Services Act, and the Digital Markets Act. He also mentioned Cyprus’s interest in promoting the EU Business Wallet and emphasized the need for a start-up strategy in Europe.
The discussion on institutional reforms featured Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki, who referred to the GRECO report on Cyprus, noting that significant progress has been made on most of the recommendations. According to Piki, a monitoring committee has been established to implement GRECO’s recommendations, and reforms in the Law Office and Audit Service are underway to enhance accountability and transparency.
Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nicolas Ioannides highlighted the successful practice of returns in Cyprus’s migration policy. Ioannides noted the importance of relocations and integration as strategic goals, with a new strategy for the integration of asylum seekers expected soon. The Deputy Minister also emphasized the significance of the Pact on Migration and Asylum and discussed plans for a new reception center for asylum seekers.
Health Minister Michalis Damianos discussed the National Strategy for the Health of Older People, emphasizing long-term care as an indicator of civilization. The strategy focuses on prevention, healthy aging, a friendly environment, and research and education, with a National Committee for the Health of Older People promoting interdisciplinary cooperation.
Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Yiannis Panagiotou highlighted the excellent job market prospects in Cyprus, attributing them to social justice and technological progress. Panagiotou noted the significant increase in training program participation and the achievement of a high employment rate, stressing the importance of continuing this trajectory.
The Cyprus Forum program will continue on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. The proceedings began on Wednesday with a message from President Nikos Christodoulides, emphasizing the need for continuous reforms and a strong economy to address corruption and support governmental policies. The Cyprus News Agency serves as the media sponsor for the conference.