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Category: News

  • Economic ties: Cyprus and UAE Forge Stronger Economic Relations with New Business Council

    Economic ties: Cyprus and UAE Forge Stronger Economic Relations with New Business Council

    economic ties — economic ties — Cyprus and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have significantly advanced their economic relations with the establishment of a joint business council, a move that underscores a remarkable growth in non-oil trade between the two nations.

    At a recent business forum in Nicosia, UAE Trade Minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi revealed that non-oil trade reached $176 million in the first nine months of this year, marking an almost 40 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. This surge is approaching the total trade value recorded in 2024, indicating robust economic momentum.

    The newly formed UAE-Cyprus Joint Business and Investment Council aims to foster structured cooperation among businesses and investors, opening doors for greater collaboration. During his address, Al Zeyoudi highlighted the forum as a prime opportunity to explore synergies across sectors of mutual interest.

    Recent initiatives reflect this growing partnership, including the establishment of the Cyprus Business Council in Dubai last month, which is designed to enhance collaboration in key areas such as finance, green technology, tourism, and logistics. These developments are part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties and facilitate mutual investment.

    Al Zeyoudi also pointed out that the Investopia investment platform from the UAE hosted its first international events in Cyprus in June, which reinforces the island’s position as a gateway to Europe for Middle Eastern investors. He noted the similarities in the economic models of both countries, characterised by streamlined company registration processes, innovation incentives, and low corporate tax rates.

    Both Cyprus and the UAE serve as essential hubs for shipping and fintech, attracting foreign direct investment in sectors like real estate, technology, and renewable energy. Al Zeyoudi encouraged UAE companies to seek opportunities in Cyprus while inviting Cypriot businesses to view the UAE as a base for regional expansion, particularly towards Asia and the wider Middle East.

    Commerce Minister Michael Damianos described the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a “major step forward” in institutionalising economic cooperation. He expressed confidence that the council would provide a structured platform for entities seeking collaboration, facilitating knowledge exchange, joint ventures, and cooperative projects.

  • Justice Minister Commits to Reform Central Prisons Following Inmate Deaths

    Justice Minister Commits to Reform Central Prisons Following Inmate Deaths

    The Justice Minister has pledged significant changes to the Central Prisons after two inmates tragically died within a week. Costas Fytiris announced a “swift, substantial and comprehensive intervention” to tackle pressing issues within the facility, emphasising the need for urgent improvements.

    This announcement came after an urgent meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides, which followed the unsettling fatalities. The Minister visited the prison to receive updates from law enforcement and prison administration regarding the initial findings of the ongoing investigation into the deaths. He has since called for a prompt completion of this inquiry to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

    At the meeting with President Christodoulides, Minister Fytiris outlined his vision for addressing the “long-standing problems” plaguing the Central Prisons. He affirmed that he now had a clear understanding of the facility’s needs and expressed his determination to implement necessary changes.

    The Ministry of Justice has identified several priorities as part of its response, focusing on immediate, medium-term, and long-term measures. These initiatives revolve around three main axes:

    • Decongestion of the Central Prisons.
    • Improvement of inmate living conditions.
    • Upgrading surveillance and control measures to prevent delinquent behaviour.

    The Ministry highlighted that these actions are crucial to ensuring the prison operates in accordance with the rule of law and adheres to national and international human rights standards for all detainees and staff. Discussions also addressed the pressing issue of appointing a permanent director for the Central Prisons, a position that has remained vacant.

    The recent deaths have brought renewed scrutiny to the Nicosia Central Prisons, which have long been under fire for their conditions. Reports from the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) have classified the environment as one that constitutes inhuman and degrading treatment. The CPT’s visits in 2023 and 2025 confirmed that the facility is significantly overcrowded, with many inmates confined to spaces of less than 6m² and often forced to sleep on the floor.

    This overcrowding crisis is compounded by chronic understaffing, undermining essential safety and security protocols and resulting in heightened levels of violence among inmates. The volatile conditions have been linked to inadequate support for vulnerable prisoners and a significant risk of suicide.

    Moreover, the CPT has condemned the ongoing practice of holding minors in unsanitary conditions lacking basic services, urging authorities to immediately transfer all children and young adults to appropriate facilities.

  • Cyprus cows: Cyprus’ Cows Celebrate Heritage in New Documentary

    Cyprus cows: Cyprus’ Cows Celebrate Heritage in New Documentary

    cyprus cows — cyprus cows — Cyprus’ cows take centre stage in a new documentary that highlights their historical significance and current challenges. The film, titled The World Shrinks, premiered earlier this week at the Pantheon Cinema in Nicosia and brings to light the unique role of these animals in Cypriot agriculture and culture.

    Cyprus cows: A Rich Tapestry of History and Science

    The documentary delves into the story of the Cypriot cow, a creature that has been integral to farming on the island for centuries. It combines elements of archaeology, history, genetics, and folklore to showcase both well-known and unexpected facets of the cow’s legacy. This multifaceted approach aims to educate viewers on the importance of agricultural biodiversity and the rich heritage these animals represent.

    Voices of Expertise

    Anna Spyrou, a researcher involved in the film’s creation, expressed her fascination with the cows, attributing it to a blend of scientific inquiry and personal narratives from individuals she has met over the years, some of whom have since passed away. “These cows have seen it all,” she remarked, underscoring the deep connection between the animals and the people who have relied on them.

    Dr Efi Snow, representing the agriculture minister, referred to the cows as “a living treasure” of Cyprus. This sentiment was echoed by India’s High Commissioner, Manish Manish, who highlighted the genetic links of the Cypriot breed to Bos indicus, suggesting a surprising connection to Indian cattle.

    Scientific Insights and Cultural Significance

    The documentary is grounded in the Areti research programme, a collaboration involving the Cyprus Institute, the agricultural research institute, and Dublin’s Smurfit Institute of Population Genetics. It features genomic profiling of 10 per cent of the island’s local cows, marking a scientific first for Cyprus. This research provides crucial insights into the breed’s adaptation to the island’s unique climate and terrain.

    Dr Anastasios Leventis from the AG Leventis Foundation noted that the research has resolved many queries regarding this ancient breed, further emphasising their vital role in the rural landscape of Cyprus. Professor Thilo Rehren from the Cyprus Institute added that these cows are not merely livestock; they are interwoven into the very fabric of rural society and deserve robust protection.

    Capturing the Rural Experience

    The film not only presents scientific data but also captures the essence of rural life. Viewers are taken through the daily realities of farming, which involves hard work, dedication, and, at times, the stubbornness of the animals themselves. The documentary aims to foster an appreciation for the labour that goes into maintaining the agricultural heritage of Cyprus.

    The Importance of Preservation

    One of the film’s key messages is the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity. As farming practices evolve and modernisation takes hold, there is a risk that traditional breeds, like the Cypriot cow, may vanish. This documentary serves as a timely reminder of the need to protect these animals, not just as agricultural assets but as symbols of cultural identity.

    Engaging the Community

    The screening at the Pantheon Cinema was well-received, attracting a diverse audience eager to learn more about the cows that have shaped the island’s agricultural landscape. The film’s engaging narration and visual storytelling have sparked conversations about the future of farming in Cyprus and the role of these animals in it.

    As the documentary gains traction, it is hoped that it will inspire further discussions on sustainable farming practices and the importance of maintaining local breeds. By highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Cyprus’ cows, The World Shrinks aims to instil a sense of pride and responsibility among viewers.

    Looking Ahead

    In an era where many traditional practices are at risk of being lost, documentaries like The World Shrinks play a crucial role in preserving cultural narratives. They remind us of the intrinsic value of our agricultural heritage and the animals that have been by our side throughout history.

    As the conversation around agricultural sustainability continues to evolve, the insights shared through this documentary could serve as a catalyst for renewed interest in protecting not just the cows of Cyprus, but the ecosystems they inhabit.

  • Rising Road Toll in Cyprus Attributed to Mobile Phone Distraction

    Rising Road Toll in Cyprus Attributed to Mobile Phone Distraction

    Mobile phone use has been identified as a significant factor in the rising road toll in Cyprus, with 43 fatalities reported this year alone. Recent statistics reveal that the number of road deaths has increased year-on-year, with motorcyclists particularly affected.

    Mobile phone: Motorcyclists at Risk

    This year, sixteen motorcyclists lost their lives in road collisions, surpassing the thirteen car drivers who died. These figures were presented to the Road Safety Council, highlighting a worrying trend related to driver distraction.

    Driver Distraction Leads the Fatality List

    According to the data shared by Traffic Director Haris Evripidou, careless driving and distraction were linked to eleven of the total fatalities. This alarming statistic positions distraction as the leading cause of death on the island’s roads. Minister of Transport Alexis Vafeades emphasised the seriousness of the situation, labelling it a national “scourge.”

    Young Lives Cut Short

    Among the victims, eleven were young individuals aged 25 and under, including eight motorcyclists. The fatalities also involved eight pedestrians and three cyclists, showcasing a broader issue with road safety.

    Inattention: A Deadly Habit

    Analysis indicated that nineteen deaths were linked to inattentive driving, which includes those attributed to mobile phone use. Vafeades remarked, “I personally interpret this potentially into mobile phone use. This cannot be accepted.”

    Other Contributing Factors

    Alongside distraction, other factors contributing to the fatalities included driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (five victims) and speeding (two victims). The geographical distribution of these deaths revealed Limassol as the area with the highest toll, recording fifteen fatalities.

    Immediate Government Action Required

    Faced with these troubling statistics, the government is under pressure to act. Vafeades warned that this trend jeopardises the government’s goal of reducing fatal road collisions by 50% by 2030. To tackle the issue, the relevant committees will reconvene the Road Safety Council in January to implement immediate corrective measures.

    Legislative Changes on the Horizon

    Justice Minister Constantinos Fytiris expressed the urgency for changes, stating that his Ministry, through the Police, will ensure that necessary resources and technologies are in place. A proposed legislative measure is also in the works, aiming to enforce zero alcohol consumption for young drivers, a move that could significantly enhance road safety.

    Tackling Traffic Obstacles for Emergency Services

    Additionally, the Police are examining the logistical challenges posed by traffic cameras, particularly concerning drivers obstructing ambulances. Finding a solution that ensures both public safety and emergency responsiveness is a priority.

  • Crisis at Central Prisons Deepens with Two Inmate Deaths

    Crisis at Central Prisons Deepens with Two Inmate Deaths

    The operational crisis at Cyprus’s Central Prisons has reached a critical juncture following the death of an inmate by apparent suicide in the early hours of Saturday. This tragic event marks the second inmate death within a week, prompting urgent discussions at the highest levels of government.

    In response to the alarming situation, President Nikos Christodoulides convened an emergency meeting with Minister of Justice Costas Fytiris. The Minister had made a swift visit to the prison to assess the circumstances surrounding the death, which is pending a formal autopsy report. His findings revealed severe issues within the facility, including chronic overcrowding and understaffing, which have been longstanding concerns.

    Central prisons: Urgent Calls for Reform

    Minister Fytiris is in the process of preparing a comprehensive report for the President, detailing the urgent needs and proposed remedial actions for the prison. Among these is the pressing requirement to appoint a permanent director, a position currently left vacant, thereby exacerbating the operational challenges.

    Alexandros Clerides, President of the Association for the Protection of Prisoners’ Rights, has vocally condemned the prison conditions, labelling them a “crime” that endangers the lives of inmates. He highlighted findings from the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), which pointed to severe deficiencies in resource allocation and staff levels. “No inmate can feel safe under this regime, and their families cannot be at ease about what tomorrow will bring,” Clerides stated, emphasising the urgent need for action.

    Government Under Fire

    Clerides also took aim at the government’s choice of advisors, arguing that those responsible for the current crisis cannot be trusted to provide effective solutions. He asserted that many in the Central Prisons Administration have faced disciplinary and criminal allegations without proper investigation, yet they remain in influential positions. This lack of accountability has raised serious concerns about the safety and welfare of inmates.

    In a bold demand, Clerides insisted on having representation from his association at any high-level discussions regarding prison reforms, asserting that they have been consistently validated in their warnings about the deteriorating conditions. “We have been proven absolutely correct on all the points we have been shouting about for so long,” he remarked, calling for immediate reforms to ensure the safety of all inmates.

    A Call for Transparency and Action

    The deaths of the two inmates within such a short span have ignited a firestorm of criticism against the prison system and the government’s handling of the crisis. The public is increasingly aware of the dire state of the Central Prisons, with many calling for transparency and accountability in the management of the facility.

    The government now faces mounting pressure to act swiftly and decisively to address the serious shortcomings that have led to this tragic situation. The urgency of the matter is evident, and the eyes of the nation are on the leaders as they navigate the complexities of prison reform in Cyprus.

  • Erhurman hahn: Tufan Erhurman Engages with EU Envoy Hahn Amid Controversy

    Erhurman hahn: Tufan Erhurman Engages with EU Envoy Hahn Amid Controversy

    erhurman hahn — erhurman hahn — The Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman met this week with the European Union’s special representative for Cyprus, Johannes Hahn, sparking criticism from senior Turkish Cypriot officials who labelled the meeting a breach of protocol.

    Erhurman announced the meeting on social media on Wednesday evening, detailing discussions that revolved around EU-related issues pertinent to the island’s divided communities. Topics included the Schengen process, EU citizenship rights for children of mixed marriages, and direct contact with EU institutions.

    Erhurman hahn: Key Discussions on EU Matters

    During the meeting, Erhurman highlighted several significant matters, such as the ad hoc EU committee on alignment, rules regarding direct trade, the EU-supported GSI project, halloumi registration, and initiatives related to solar energy in the buffer zone. He accompanied his announcement with a photograph of the interaction with Hahn.

    Recent Joint Visits and Humanitarian Efforts

    This meeting followed a joint visit by Erhurman and the Greek Cypriot leader to the CMP anthropological laboratory, where they received updates on the organisation’s work concerning missing persons. Erhurman described supporting the laboratory as a duty and emphasised the importance of preventing the politicisation of its research. He expressed sympathy for families affected by the issue from both communities.

    Criticism from Turkish Cypriot Officials

    However, not all were supportive of the meeting. Turkish Cypriot Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertugruloglu publicly denounced the encounter, labelling it a mistake. He argued that Hahn’s role was appointed unilaterally by the European Commission, which he claimed only consulted with the Greek Cypriot leadership.

    Ertugruloglu contended that EU institutions have consistently favoured the Greek Cypriot side since the Republic of Cyprus’s accession to the EU in 2004. He reinforced that all Cyprus-related processes should occur under the oversight of the United Nations secretary-general, requiring consent from both sides for personal envoys and UN peacekeeping officials.

    Calls for Increased Cooperation and Equality

    The Foreign Minister further asserted that the Turkish Cypriot authorities view Hahn’s appointment as an internal EU issue and cannot recognise it in official negotiations. He cautioned that unilateral actions by the EU could jeopardise ongoing diplomatic efforts within the UN framework.

    Stressing the importance of cooperation based on sovereign equality, Ertugruloglu called for the EU to lift political, economic, and cultural restrictions on Turkish Cypriots. He argued that such steps would demonstrate a genuine commitment to the peace process on the island.

  • Horizon programme — Protesters Demand Israel’s Expulsion from EU Horizon Programme

    Horizon programme — Protesters Demand Israel’s Expulsion from EU Horizon Programme

    Protesters are calling for Israel’s expulsion from the EU’s Horizon Programme during demonstrations across Europe, including a gathering in Nicosia, Cyprus. On Friday evening, around 30 to 40 activists braved the cold outside the EU Commission building, joining a wider campaign that spanned over 20 cities.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    The Horizon Programme, a €95 billion initiative aimed at funding research and innovation, has been a focal point of criticism. Activists argue that Israel, with its privileged status allowing participation equivalent to that of EU member states, has been the recipient of substantial funding since 2014, totalling around €300 million annually.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    One activist voiced concerns about the implications of this funding, stating, “€3 billion of EU funding going directly to a genocidal state.” The speaker condemned specific projects funded by Horizon, highlighting connections to Israeli aerospace industries and military technologies, including drones and interrogation techniques purportedly linked to human rights violations.

    As temperatures dropped, the protesters raised their voices against what they termed the EU’s hypocrisy. Chants like “EU Horizon, you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide!” echoed in the evening air. The gathering also served as a poignant reminder of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with one speaker noting the tragic deaths of three children due to the cold weather, underscoring the severity of the situation.

    The activists expressed frustration over the European Commission’s handling of Israel’s participation in the programme. They pointed out that since October 7, discussions of a suspension have been minimal, with proposals suggesting only a partial reduction in collaboration. This, they argue, falls short of the decisive action taken against Russia in April 2022, when the European Commission suspended its involvement in Horizon entirely.

    With calls for accountability and action resonating through the crowd, the protests in Nicosia reflect a growing sentiment among students and researchers in Europe. As the campaign unfolds, it seeks to challenge existing partnerships and highlight the ethical considerations surrounding funding in light of ongoing conflicts.

  • Ex-police Officer Seeks to Halt Prosecution in Thanasis Nicolaou Case

    Ex-police Officer Seeks to Halt Prosecution in Thanasis Nicolaou Case

    A former police officer has invoked an Assistant Attorney-General’s letter in his attempt to suspend the prosecution linked to the 2005 death of National Guard soldier Thanasis Nicolaou.

    • A former police officer has invoked an Assistant Attorney-General's letter in his attempt to suspend the prosecution linked to the 2005 death of National Guard soldier Thanasis Nicolaou.

    This request comes two decades after the tragic discovery of the 26-year-old soldier’s body beneath the Alassa bridge, an incident shrouded in controversy, with Nicolaou’s family long contending that the initial ruling of suicide was a facade for murder.

    The defendant, Christakis Kapiliotis, was the head of Lania Police Station at the time of Nicolaou’s death in September 2005. Through his lawyer, Andriana Klaedes, he has argued to the Attorney-General (AG) that the duration since the incident is excessively long for private criminal prosecutions to be initiated.

    In his correspondence to the AG, Kapiliotis pointed to the AG’s Law Office’s prior assessment of the evidence. He attached a letter from Assistant AG Savvas Angelides, dated 11 June 2025, which had previously dismissed a request from the Nicolaou family’s lawyer, Nikos Clerides, to pursue state prosecutions based on the Pappas-Athanasiou report. Angelides indicated that there was not enough evidence to support a charge of deliberate neglect of duty.

    Furthermore, the letter addressed medical examiner Panikos Stavrianos, who is also a defendant in the private case. Angelides clarified that there was no proof that Stavrianos had any knowledge of a murder or intent to conceal the identity of potential perpetrators.

    It is anticipated that the other defendants, including Stavrianos, former Limassol Police Director Andreas Iatropoulos, former Limassol CID head Nicos Sophocleous, and former Rural Police head Christakis Nathanael, will submit similar letters to the AG.

    In response to Kapiliotis’s request, the AG has sought the position of the Nicolaou family lawyers, who are expected to oppose the suspension and advocate for the continuation of the prosecution towards a conclusive court ruling. This follows the AG’s earlier announcement that he would not halt private prosecutions if the family chose to move forward, especially after the release of the Matsas-Alexopoulos report.

    All five defendants made their initial court appearance on 9 December, during which a preliminary objection regarding a conflict of interest was raised. The court has scheduled the next hearing for 22 January 2026.

  • Christodoulides Urges Swift Action on Cyprus Meeting with Mitsotakis

    Christodoulides Urges Swift Action on Cyprus Meeting with Mitsotakis

    cyprus meeting — cyprus meeting — President Nikos Christodoulides emphasised the need for an enlarged meeting regarding the Cyprus problem during a telephone conversation with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday. This discussion followed Christodoulides’ meeting with European Union envoy Johannes Hahn and came just before a tripartite meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and United Nations envoy Maria Angela Holguin.

    As one of Cyprus’ guarantor powers, Greece plays a crucial role in these discussions, typically represented by Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis. The aim is to foster dialogue among the involved parties, including Turkey and the United Kingdom, to address the longstanding issues surrounding Cyprus.

    During the call, Christodoulides articulated that the purpose of the day’s meetings was to pave the way for the resumption of substantive negotiations, which had been interrupted in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. A government statement reiterated that Nicosia and Athens are in complete alignment, steadily progressing towards the unchanged objective of resolving the Cyprus problem.

    The resolution, according to the statement, should adhere to the resolutions of the UN Security Council, the principles and values of the EU, and the European acquis communautaire. This framework underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.

    Following his meeting with Hahn, Christodoulides highlighted the significant role the European Union can play in the process. He noted that the EU has both political and institutional tools capable of supporting the resumption and progress of negotiations. “The EU’s active involvement is not only a strategic choice for Cyprus but also a recognition that the solution to the Cyprus problem is a European issue that affects the cohesion, stability, and security of the entire union,” he stated.

    Prime Minister Mitsotakis had previously reiterated Greece’s commitment to reunifying the island, stating that the Greek government’s positions are clear. He asserted that it is now up to other parties to demonstrate their willingness to restart talks within a framework defined by UN resolutions and the broader relationship between the EU and Turkey.

    Gerapetritis remarked that the election of pro-reunification candidate Tufan Erhurman as Turkish Cypriot leader in October represents a new chapter filled with hope and expectations for the island’s reunification. The alignment of thoughts and actions among the involved parties could be pivotal in moving forward.

  • Ikyk Scholarships for 300 Students to Be Paid in 2026

    Ikyk Scholarships for 300 Students to Be Paid in 2026

    ikyk scholarships — ikyk scholarships — The Ikyk student scholarships will be disbursed in 2026, as confirmed by the finance ministry, which announced plans to allocate additional funds next year for 300 students who have yet to receive their awarded amounts.

    • “We are glad that the President of the Republic has listened to our appeals and we hope that we will not find ourselves as spectators in the same play next year,” Savvidis remarked.

    During a session with the House education committee, a finance ministry representative outlined the government’s commitment to providing extra funding to the State Scholarship Foundation (Ikyk). This decision aims to ensure that deserving students obtain the financial support they need to continue their studies.

    Concerns have been raised about the payments owed to students from previous years, as the ministry is also looking into outstanding grants from 2023 and possibly 2022. The representative mentioned that they have reached out to Ikyk for detailed information regarding these payments, emphasising the importance of accessing data stored in Ikyk’s digital system.

    Chrysanthos Savvidis, chairman of the education committee and Diko MP, highlighted the urgency of the situation, expressing that some students could be forced to halt their education due to the lack of funds. He has appealed to President Nikos Christodoulides for an additional budget to support these students, stressing the need for equal opportunities and the importance of maintaining trust in public institutions that provide scholarships.

    “We are glad that the President of the Republic has listened to our appeals and we hope that we will not find ourselves as spectators in the same play next year,” Savvidis remarked.

    Meanwhile, Disy MP Giorgos Karoulas urged the finance ministry to enhance collaboration with Ikyk, warning that the reliability of the scholarship system is at stake. He stated, “Our talented children must not be victims of this situation and the unreliability of the state itself,” advocating for an increase in scholarship amounts to better support gifted students.

    Akel MP Christos Christofides expressed his satisfaction with the ministry’s recent decision, noting that while it does not achieve perfection, it will ensure that an additional 300 students receive the necessary support. He conveyed his hope that the current issues surrounding the scholarship payments would be resolved promptly.

    Sotiris Ioannou from Elam reassured the committee that, according to his discussions with the finance ministry, no students would lose their scholarships. He indicated that the remaining amounts would be distributed soon, citing information from the Minister of Finance that the issue would be resolved within days.

    The absence of an Ikyk representative at the committee meeting was noted with criticism, particularly as the position of the organisation’s president has been vacant for several months, with the deputy president currently abroad.

    Heightened interest in academic scholarships has led to an increase in Ikyk’s budget, with a supplementary budget of €1.7 million allocated for 2025. The regular budget for 2026 is expected to exceed the previous year’s figure, as announced in parliament.

    Ikyk serves as a government body that awards scholarships to students from Cyprus, the EU, and non-EU countries based on academic merit and socio-economic status. These scholarships cover undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies, both domestically and internationally.