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Tag: Cyprus

  • Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather: Light Rain Expected Before Heavy Weekend Storms

    Cyprus weather — Cyprus Weather: Light Rain Expected Before Heavy Weekend Storms

    cyprus weather — Cyprus weather is set for a spell of light rain on Wednesday, with conditions gradually turning stormy over the weekend. The day will begin with a mix of partly cloudy and intermittent clouds, alongside a chance of isolated light rain.

    • The forecast for Thursday through Saturday indicates a shift towards more unsettled weather. On Thursday, residents can expect similar partly cloudy conditions with a likelihood of isolated showers.

    Cyprus weather: Winds and Sea Conditions

    Morning winds will be variable and light, reaching around 3 Beaufort. As the day progresses, they will shift to predominantly north-easterly and south-easterly directions, becoming light to moderate at 3 to 4 Beaufort. Sea conditions will remain smooth to slight, making for a calm day on the water.

    Temperature Expectations

    Temperatures are anticipated to hover around 22 degrees Celsius both inland and along the coast, while mountainous areas will see cooler conditions, dropping to approximately 12 degrees Celsius. As night falls, the weather will persist in its partly cloudy state, with a continued chance of isolated light rain.

    A Rainy Outlook for the Coming Days

    The forecast for Thursday through Saturday indicates a shift towards more unsettled weather. On Thursday, residents can expect similar partly cloudy conditions with a likelihood of isolated showers.

    As Friday approaches, the clouds will thicken, bringing about localised rain. The afternoon is expected to introduce thunderstorms, starting in the west and south and spreading across the island. This trend of cloudy skies and rain will carry into Saturday, where local rain and isolated thunderstorms are likely to occur.

    Temperature Changes Ahead

    While temperatures are not predicted to change significantly until Friday, a notable drop is on the horizon for Saturday, aligning more closely with seasonal averages. This shift in weather patterns suggests that residents should prepare for a wet weekend ahead.

  • Pensioner — British Pensioner Allegedly Repatriated from Cyprus Without Heart

    Pensioner — British Pensioner Allegedly Repatriated from Cyprus Without Heart

    pensioner — The body of 76-year-old British pensioner Michael Graley, who died while holidaying in Cyprus, has allegedly been returned to the UK without his heart, raising serious questions about the repatriation process.

    Graley, from Greater Manchester, was reportedly visiting the island with his family when he died shortly after being admitted to a hospital in Paralimni. His wife, Yvonne, 73, shared details of the unfortunate incident, stating that a post-mortem examination was conducted in Cyprus.

    According to Yvonne, when British officials reviewed the documentation, they found that the death certificate had been issued without a specified cause of death. This prompted the coroner’s office in Rochdale to request a second examination.

    During this follow-up examination, it was allegedly discovered that Graley’s heart was missing, preventing the coroner from determining the cause of death. Yvonne described her feelings as “in shock” upon hearing this news.

    Further complicating matters, Yvonne mentioned that Cypriot police later informed her that her husband’s heart had been sent to a research facility, a revelation that has left her seeking answers. As of Monday afternoon, police in Cyprus had not provided additional information in response to inquiries from the Cyprus Mail.

    This incident highlights the potential challenges and concerns surrounding the handling of deceased individuals in foreign countries, particularly regarding the repatriation process. Families often rely on the proper management of such sensitive matters when dealing with the loss of a loved one, making this case particularly distressing for the Graley family.

  • Young Runners Aim to Cross Cyprus in 24 Hours

    Young Runners Aim to Cross Cyprus in 24 Hours

    young runners — The young runners undertaking this ambitious challenge are set to make history with a 240-kilometre relay across Cyprus. Starting on December 21 at midnight from Ayios Kokonas church in Akamas, four university students aim to reach Cape Greco peninsula before the clock strikes midnight the following day.

    • As Christmas approaches, the team hopes to be adequately prepared, ready to take on this monumental task while inspiring others along the way.

    This first-of-its-kind event, dubbed ‘Running across Cyprus’, will see the team swapping runners every 20 kilometres. Team captain Anghelo George Eleftheriou, who describes himself as a ‘non-runner’, has spent the past year training rigorously to transform his fitness levels, preparing to run the entire distance alongside his teammates.

    Joining him are fellow students Panos Alepis, Constantinos Psaras, and Petros Loizou, all in their twenties, who have a mixture of athletic backgrounds. While Eleftheriou has struggled with running in the past, his teammates have consistently engaged in football. They invite the community to support them as they attempt to set a new record, equipped with live GPS tracking to share their progress.

    “We want to show people that it’s never too late to redefine what you’re capable of,” Eleftheriou stated. His words reflect the team’s mission: to inspire others to pursue their ambitions, no matter how daunting they may seem.

    The four runners have united not just for the physical challenge but also for personal growth. They believe that by pushing their limits, they encourage others to do the same. “You define yourself, you set your own limits,” they noted, highlighting the importance of goal-setting in their training.

    The challenge they face is significant, with each runner needing to complete three sets of 20 kilometres. Unlike any marathon they have experienced before, the relay poses unique challenges, particularly the lack of sleep which can hinder muscle recovery. Additionally, the December timing means they will have to navigate the route in darkness, relying on headlamps to guide their way.

    The atmosphere leading up to the event is charged with excitement and nerves. “All emotions are high,” the team shared, acknowledging the daunting nature of running for 24 hours straight. Eleftheriou emphasised the value of setting fears aside, stating, “If you don’t set a challenge that doesn’t at least scare you a little, then maybe the challenge isn’t hard enough.”

    To ensure their safety during the run, the team has arranged for a support vehicle, ready to provide medical assistance and supplies should the need arise. This careful planning reflects their commitment to both the challenge and their well-being.

    For the group, this relay represents more than just a record attempt. It embodies perseverance and a commitment to high performance. With countless hours of training leading up to this moment, they are eager to push their boundaries and embrace the journey ahead.

    Looking beyond this challenge, the team is already planning future adventures, including a run from Akamas to the Karpas peninsula. “Our goal is to motivate and show every goal can be reached, dream big,” Eleftheriou declared, showcasing their desire to keep pushing the envelope.

    As Christmas approaches, the team hopes to be adequately prepared, ready to take on this monumental task while inspiring others along the way.

  • Drought — Drought Threatens Cyprus’ Ancient Forests, Officials Warn

    Drought — Drought Threatens Cyprus’ Ancient Forests, Officials Warn

    Drought has severely damaged Cyprus’ forests, with 40 per cent of the trees in the cedar valley having already dried up, according to forestry department director, Savvas Ezekiel. Addressing the crisis on CyBC radio, he described the situation as unprecedented, raising alarms about the island’s oldest forests.

    The forestry department’s assessments reveal that mature cedars and pines are succumbing after consecutive years of minimal rainfall. While young saplings can collapse within weeks without adequate water, larger trees, although initially more resilient, begin to weaken after several dry years.

    Implications of Continued Drought

    Ezekiel warned that if Cyprus endures another dry winter, “we will lose many centuries-old trees,” a fate that could extend to forests across the island. The current drought is notable, as it marks a severity not seen since 2008.

    Areas of Concern

    Significant losses have been documented in regions such as Kakomalis and Machairas, where species like the Turkish pine (Pinus brutia) and the endemic golden oak (Quercus alnifolia) are drying at alarming rates. In the Akamas region, Jerusalem pine trees (Pinus halepensis) are also showing signs of distress, particularly deeper within the forest, although the more humid coastal edges remain relatively unaffected.

    In contrast, the high-altitude black pine (Pinus nigra) in Troodos is stable for now, benefiting from cooler temperatures and moisture, while the forests of Cape Greco are holding up due to their coastal microclimate.

    Impact on Wildlife and Fire Risk

    The drought has repercussions beyond tree mortality. Ezekiel highlighted that natural springs have been adversely affected, leading to reduced river flows and diminishing water access for birds and other wildlife. This situation raises significant concerns regarding fire risk, as the accumulation of dry biomass across forested areas creates an environment ripe for wildfires. Ezekiel stated that with everything so dry, “there is nowhere for a fire to stop.”

    Mitigation Efforts and Community Support

    In an effort to manage the growing fire risk and support mountain communities, the forestry department plans to issue a circular next week that increases the annual firewood allowances. Families in high-altitude areas will see their quota rise from 10 to 12 cubic metres, while those in lower-altitude regions will increase from 4 to 5 cubic metres.

    Scientific Perspective on Tree Mortality

    Former Green Party leader, Charalambos Theopemptou, noted that the drying of olives, carobs, and pines aligns with scientific data indicating that repeated drought is a leading cause of mass tree mortality in ecosystems. The situation is further compounded by the comments from Water Development Department (WDD) official, Giorgos Kazantzis, who emphasised that Cyprus cannot easily replenish its natural water sources and must continue to depend on dams and desalination.

    Kazantzis also pointed out that the potential for artificial rain through cloud seeding technology remains limited in Cyprus due to challenges in directing clouds and the associated risks of hail or flooding.

  • Cyprus Weather Whims Bring Hail and Tornado to the Island

    Cyprus Weather Whims Bring Hail and Tornado to the Island

    cyprus weather — Cyprus weather whims have recently led to surprising meteorological events, including hailstorms in Limassol and a tornado in Avgorou. Just last Friday, the idea of hurricanes and hailstones the size of halloumi was playfully suggested, and shortly after, the island experienced these wild weather phenomena.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Cyprus weather: Unexpected Hail in Limassol

    The hail that fell across Limassol was significant enough to create a white landscape, catching many residents off guard. Reports indicate that the hailstones were quite large, with anything above 2 cm categorised as ‘large hail’. This isn’t the first time large hail has impacted the region; similar events occurred in October 2020 and August 2019, when hailstones of comparable sizes caused visibility issues and crop damage.

    The Impact on Agriculture

    While such weather may seem like a curiosity, it poses real threats to Cyprus’ agricultural sector. Potatoes, a vital export crop, particularly from the ‘red soil’ regions, could face severe damage from hail. As the island’s economy relies heavily on tourism, which accounts for approximately 15-20 per cent of the GDP, the agricultural impact can reverberate throughout the economy. The loss of crops due to unpredictable weather patterns underscores the fragility of the island’s economy.

    Weather Comparisons and Historical Context

    Despite the unusual nature of recent weather events in Cyprus, they pale in comparison to some of the most extreme hail occurrences recorded worldwide. The largest hailstone ever documented measured over 20 cm in diameter, while hail in Bangladesh has caused numerous fatalities. In 1888, India experienced the deadliest hailstorm, resulting in 246 deaths and devastating livestock.

    Current Weather Conditions

    Fortunately, the weather over the weekend has been milder. In Nicosia, temperatures reached a comfortable 23°C on Friday, with partly sunny skies. The forecast indicated a gradual warming trend through Saturday, before cooling slightly to 20°C on Sunday. Monday promises clearer skies with more sunshine.

    Limassol’s weather mirrored this trend, with Friday’s temperature climbing to 26°C. A brief precipitation event resulted in a 9-cm measurement that most likely reflects a data anomaly rather than a significant rain event. As the weekend progresses, temperatures are expected to hover around 21°C on Sunday, rebounding to 23°C on Monday.

    Regional Forecasts

    • Larnaca: Starting under mostly cloudy skies at 25°C on Friday, warming to 26°C on Saturday before dipping to 22°C on Sunday.
    • Paphos: A mix of partly sunny conditions and showers is expected, with temperatures ranging from 21°C on Sunday to 23°C on Monday.
    • Ayia Napa: This region will experience breezy conditions, with sunny spells on Friday and a temperature drop to 20°C on Sunday.
    • Troodos: The mountainous area will feel the chill, with temperatures dropping to near freezing on Saturday, and only reaching 15°C by Monday.

    Looking Ahead

    As the current pleasant weather settles in, indications suggest that more rain is on the horizon. Forecasts predict light showers across most districts on Thursday and Friday, coupled with cooler temperatures and breezier conditions. This upcoming weather shift will require residents to prepare adequately.

    Weekend Weather Tips

    • Savour the calm after a tumultuous week of hail and tornadoes.
    • Utilise Saturday’s sunshine for outdoor activities, as it offers the best weather of the weekend.
    • Be mindful of wind conditions, particularly in coastal areas and the Troodos region.
    • Make the most of Monday’s clear skies, providing a bright start to the week ahead.
    • Prepare for the anticipated rain later in the week, utilising the stable weather to catch up on any outdoor plans.

    As Cyprus navigates these erratic weather patterns, the hope is that the island can find a balance between enjoying the beauty of its climate while also safeguarding its agricultural and economic stability.

  • MPs Progress on Teacher Evaluation Bill, Seeking Compromise

    MPs Progress on Teacher Evaluation Bill, Seeking Compromise

    MPs are advancing discussions on a new teacher evaluation bill aimed at enhancing teaching performance, according to Diko MP Pavlos Mylonas, the chair of the House education committee. Mylonas expressed optimism that a workable outcome is within reach as various parties and individual MPs prepare amendments to the proposed legislation.

    Negotiations Focused on Clarity and Compromise

    Amid ongoing discussions, Mylonas highlighted the committee’s efforts to explore compromises that address concerns raised by education unions. He noted that ambiguities within the legislative framework, particularly regarding overlapping responsibilities, need clarification. The committee intends to tackle these issues during an article-by-article debate, and an extraordinary session may be convened if necessary to ensure the process is completed efficiently.

    Confidence in Plenary Progress

    When asked about the likelihood of the bill reaching the plenary, Mylonas conveyed strong confidence, stating he was “almost certain” that parliamentary groups would maintain their current positions. He emphasised the importance of creating a system that benefits teachers, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes for students.

    Aiming for a Fairer Evaluation System

    Mylonas acknowledged that while the emerging proposal from the committee may not be flawless, it represents a genuine effort to establish a fair, effective, and merit-based evaluation system. With over 20,000 educators and more than 100,000 students impacted, the need for a balanced approach is paramount, and differing opinions are to be expected.

    Placing Students at the Centre

    Throughout the discussions, Mylonas reiterated the necessity of focusing on students’ needs, asserting that the interests of the majority should guide the legislative process. He remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached that reflects the collective interests of all stakeholders involved in the education sector.

    A Historical Perspective on Teacher Evaluation

    The push for a modernised teacher evaluation system follows Cyprus’s long-standing commitment to educational reform, dating back fifty years to the introduction of the first evaluation system. With the Republic now under EU obligations to update this framework, the stakes are high. The education ministry’s initial proposal, made nearly a year ago, has faced strong resistance from state school teachers, who advocate for maintaining the status quo while presenting their demands for change.

    A Comprehensive Summary of Ongoing Debates

    As discussions continue, a comprehensive summary of the long-standing debate regarding the new evaluation system is available for those looking to understand the complexities and nuances of this significant legislative effort.

  • Eu safe — Cabinet Approves Arms Procurement for EU Safe Programme

    Eu safe — Cabinet Approves Arms Procurement for EU Safe Programme

    eu safe — The cabinet has approved the list of armaments that Cyprus intends to procure through the Security Action for Europe (Safe) programme.

    • eu safe — The cabinet has approved the list of armaments that Cyprus intends to procure through the Security Action for Europe (Safe) programme.

    Prepared by the defence ministry, the list signifies a strategic move towards enhancing Cyprus’s defensive capabilities. Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, while remaining tight-lipped about the specifics, emphasised the defensive nature of the armaments. “Under no circumstances do the armaments programmes on the list concern weapons systems with an offensive posture,” he stated, reflecting on Cyprus’s historical context as an occupied territory for over five decades.

    The formal submission of the armaments list to the European Commission is scheduled for November 30. Minister Palmas explained that once the procedure receives final approval, Cyprus will have access to allocated funds amounting to €1.2 billion. This crucial financial backing will enable the country to effectively bolster its defence mechanisms.

    Following the approval, the defence ministry plans to collaborate with the finance ministry to integrate these funds into the annual state budget. When asked about the potential suppliers for the procurement, Palmas noted that while France and Germany are among the likely candidates, there are various other countries involved in joint armament production.

    The Safe programme aims to foster collaboration among EU member states and allies for common procurements of military hardware. All EU member states, along with Ukraine, four European Economic Area states—namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—and six additional nations with defence agreements with the EU, including Albania, Japan, Moldova, North Macedonia, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, are eligible to participate.

    Safe will provide long-term, low-cost loans to assist EU nations in acquiring essential defence equipment. To facilitate this, EU member states must submit their national investment plans to the European Commission by the end of November. The Commission will assess these plans with the aim of initiating the first disbursements in early 2026.

  • House Discusses Impact of AI on Democracy and Future Elections

    House Discusses Impact of AI on Democracy and Future Elections

    The effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy have emerged as a pressing concern for lawmakers, particularly in the context of its potential influence on future elections. This topic dominated discussions at the House institutions committee on Wednesday, where members expressed their unease regarding Cyprus’ readiness to handle potential AI-driven interferences.

    Ai: Concerns Over External Influences

    During the committee meeting, attending MPs voiced fears about the prospect of external influences manipulating information distributed through AI applications during election periods. The chairman of the committee, Demetris Demetriou, a member of the Disy party, urged the government to put in place effective protection mechanisms for users. He called for the establishment of control measures to oversee the application of technology in political contexts.

    Amending Legislation for New Challenges

    Vasiliki Triga, a professor of political communication, highlighted the urgent need to amend current legislation to address the challenges posed by the increasing use of AI. Triga warned that applications like ChatGPT should not be regarded as “safe” for information gathering, as they often contain biases that could skew public perception.

    Regulatory Efforts Underway

    According to a representative from the digital policy directorate of the deputy ministry of innovation, efforts are already underway to regulate AI in Cyprus. The relevant EU regulation is currently under discussion at both national and European levels, especially with Cyprus set to assume the EU Council Presidency soon. The ministry official mentioned that a study had been initiated to evaluate the current state of AI implementation on the island, identify stakeholders, and support the development of a national legal framework. A preliminary version of this framework is already in place.

    Timeline for Legislative Changes

    The official presentation of the proposed bill is scheduled for March 2026, which aims to address the concerns raised during the committee discussions. In the meantime, Maria Stylianou-Lottides, the commissioner for administration and human rights, along with Maria Christofidou, the information and personal data protection commissioner, have been appointed as the supervisory authorities overseeing the regulation of AI usage.

    Progress in Regulatory Measures

    Officials from the Radio-Television Authority, tasked with supervising the implementation of the EU’s digital services act, reported that measures to facilitate regulation are advancing. They indicated that the regulation is currently under study, and procedures addressing the issues raised by the regulation are being drafted. Additionally, plans are in motion to create a register of entities that will be supervised under this new regulatory framework.

    Promoting News Literacy and Digital Awareness

    Nikolas Karydis, a representative from the Institute of Mass Media (IMME), emphasised the importance of fostering news literacy among the public. He underlined the necessity for both young people and the elderly to develop skills that will enable them to identify misinformation, particularly in an era where social media plays a significant role in information dissemination.

    Educational Initiatives in Digital Literacy

    Thanasis Tsokos, the director general of CyBC, highlighted the broadcaster’s commitment to promoting digital literacy from a young age. He advocated for the development of educational courses that would teach children about the possibilities and risks associated with digital technology, thus preparing them to navigate the challenges posed by AI and misinformation.

    Public Concerns About Misinformation

    A recent survey conducted by the Union of Cyprus Journalists revealed that television and social media remain the primary sources of information for 72 per cent of the public. Alarmingly, 44 per cent of respondents indicated that misinformation and fake news are significant concerns. The survey also found that online portals and radio are the next most common sources of information, followed by the printed press, which has a notably lower engagement at 15 per cent. Only 10 per cent of the public rely on Greek press sources, while foreign press accounts for just 9 per cent.

  • Government’s Waste Management Plan Faces Harsh Criticism

    Government’s Waste Management Plan Faces Harsh Criticism

    The government’s waste management plan has come under intense scrutiny from members of the House environment committee, who labelled it as ‘inadequate’ during a meeting on Wednesday.

    • The government’s waste management plan has come under intense scrutiny from members of the House environment committee, who labelled it as ‘inadequate’ during a meeting on Wednesday.

    Leading the charge, committee chairman and Greens MP Charalambos Theopemptou highlighted alarming issues such as uncontrolled landfills, hazardous unrecycled materials, and significant gaps in the collection systems. He expressed deep concern over the current situation, stating he felt “ashamed” as Cyprus prepares to take its turn as EU President in the first half of 2026.

    Theopemptou pointed out that since joining the European Union in 2004, Cyprus has struggled to implement critical EU directives on waste management, instead opting for a simplistic approach of burying waste. He urged for immediate action in light of the new EU legislation on packaging and recycling, calling for updated public contracts that mandate the use of recycled materials in construction.

    While the committee acknowledged progress in certain areas, such as steady developments in paper recycling and the presence of recycling bins in 70 per cent of pharmacies for expired medicines, other significant issues remain unaddressed. One pressing concern is the lack of a collection system for greenhouse nylon, which has led many farmers to resort to burning the material, releasing harmful pollutants into the environment.

    Theopemptou also raised alarms regarding hazardous components found in old appliances. He cited the dangers posed by materials like circuit boards in washing machines and the gases found in air conditioners, which, if not handled properly, could lead to environmental and health risks.

    Adding to the concerns, he stated that 40 per cent of the packaging submitted for recycling is currently non-processable, which raises questions about public education on recycling and compliance among manufacturers. A significant volume of non-recyclable materials ends up at the Koshi facility or is disposed of illegally, exacerbating the waste crisis.

    Akel member Nikos Kettiros joined the criticism, describing the waste management programme as “problematic” and highlighting the lack of clarity regarding its expected outcomes. He pointed out a shocking statistic: only one third of all engine oils are collected, with no oversight on where the remaining quantities are going.

    Collection rates for electrical and electronic equipment are similarly low, standing at around 30 per cent. Kettiros expressed frustration over the proliferation of illegal dumping sites, which continue to fill rivers and fields, driven by high disposal costs that incentivise illegal dumping.

    Despite instructions from the environment department to local authorities to clean up specific areas, Kettiros lamented that new dumping sites seem to appear just as quickly as existing ones are cleared. He insisted that the government’s updated waste management plan, which is expected in 2026, must provide effective and sustainable solutions to address the pressing waste crisis facing Cyprus.

  • Cyprus and Lebanon Finalise Exclusive Economic Zone Agreement After Two Decades of Negotiation

    Cyprus and Lebanon Finalise Exclusive Economic Zone Agreement After Two Decades of Negotiation

    exclusive economic — Cyprus and Lebanon have officially signed an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) delimitation agreement, concluding a dispute that has lasted two decades and paving the way for collaborative energy exploration in the eastern Mediterranean.

    Exclusive economic: Historic Signing Ceremony

    The agreement was signed on Wednesday at Baabda Palace, with President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus and President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon presiding over the event. The Cypriot President, alongside Lebanon’s Minister of Transport and Public Works, Fayez Rassamny, represented their respective nations in this significant accord.

    Legal Certainty for Investors

    Both leaders expressed that the agreement establishes maritime boundaries, providing essential legal clarity for potential investors interested in energy exploration. Following the ceremony, President Christodoulides remarked that the signing is a milestone for bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of international law and good neighbourly relations.

    A Strong Political Message

    President Christodoulides described the signing as a strong political message, indicating that Cyprus and Lebanon are committed to fostering trust and mutual respect. He highlighted the role of Lebanese political will in making this agreement possible, acknowledging the efforts of President Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Lebanon’s political leadership.

    He commended the negotiating teams led by Rassamny and Cyprus’s national security adviser, Tasos Tzionis, for their diligent work, which he described as “tireless and methodical” and conducted “in a spirit of trust and transparency.”

    Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

    During his address, Christodoulides noted that this marks the third exchange of visits between the two leaders in less than a year, reflecting the strong ties that bind the two nations. He underscored the agreement’s potential to enhance cooperation in crucial sectors such as energy and infrastructure.

    Exploring Maritime Resources

    President Aoun welcomed the agreement, stating it would enable both countries to begin exploring their maritime resources and bolster cooperation at this level. He outlined potential new joint projects in various sectors, including renewable energy, telecommunications, electricity transmission, and tourism.

    Joint Defence Initiatives

    The Lebanese president also noted the ongoing cooperation in defence and security, mentioning a joint search and rescue centre operated by both nations’ defence ministries. This initiative signifies a commitment to regional stability and collaboration in addressing common challenges.

    Feasibility Study for Electrical Interconnection

    In a significant development, both presidents announced their intention to pursue a feasibility study for an electrical interconnection between Cyprus and Lebanon. They have approached the World Bank to assist in this project, which has the potential to enhance energy cooperation.

    Broader Bilateral Discussions

    Aside from energy cooperation, the leaders engaged in discussions on broader bilateral cooperation, regional developments impacting both nations, and Lebanon’s relations with the European Union. Aoun expressed anticipation for Cyprus to assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, hopeful that it will facilitate stronger ties with the EU.

    Invitation for Future Collaboration

    In closing, President Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, declaring Cyprus as a reliable partner in the region. He extended an invitation to President Aoun for upcoming events, including the EU presidency assumption ceremony on 7 January and a Council meeting in April, where sectors such as energy and education will be discussed.

    This EEZ delimitation agreement not only marks a significant step in Cyprus-Lebanon relations but also opens the door for future collaboration in energy and infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to mutual prosperity in the eastern Mediterranean.