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  • Cyprus Aims for Water Self-Reliance by 2028 with New Desalination Units

    Cyprus Aims for Water Self-Reliance by 2028 with New Desalination Units

    Cyprus aims to achieve 100 per cent water self-reliance by 2028 through the installation of two permanent desalination units, as announced by President Nikos Christodoulides.

    • Cyprus aims to achieve 100 per cent water self-reliance by 2028 through the installation of two permanent desalination units, as announced by President Nikos Christodoulides.
    • This remark elicited a strong rebuttal from Andreas Gregoriou, the permanent secretary of the agriculture ministry, who asserted that Cyprus has “not been left without water.”

    During the inauguration of a new water reservoir in Larnaca, President Christodoulides emphasised the critical need for effective management of water resources. He stated, “The effective treatment of water scarcity and the rational management of water resources are of utmost importance and a strategic priority for the government.”

    The President pointed to concerning climate trends, noting that regional temperatures are rising at a rate potentially double that of other parts of the world. He cited a decrease of approximately 10 to 15 per cent in average annual rainfall since the mid-1990s.

    In a proactive response to these challenges, the government has decided on the establishment of three additional desalination units, with completion expected by summer 2026. These units are projected to increase the volume of water sourced from desalination facilities by 32 per cent.

    Plans are also in place to initiate studies for the implementation of two permanent desalination units powered by renewable energy by the end of 2025. Christodoulides articulated a goal to boost Cyprus’ self-sufficiency in water supply from the current 70 per cent to a full 100 per cent by 2028.

    Further emphasising the significance of infrastructure development, he mentioned the construction of additional tanks and reservoirs, similar to those recently established in Larnaca, which are deemed strategically important for the entire island.

    Christodoulides highlighted that Cyprus’s geographical position makes it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, underscoring the necessity for building water resilience in anticipation of extended and more frequent droughts.

    Projects in areas such as Polis Chrysochous and Kokkinokremmos were also referenced, illustrating their critical roles in enhancing and safeguarding the island’s water supply. Looking ahead, a total of 31 water-related projects are scheduled for completion by 2026.

    Currently, Cyprus’s dams are operating at only 11 per cent capacity, a situation that has drawn sharp criticism regarding the government’s water management strategies. In a recent heated discussion at the House agriculture committee, Disy MP Kyriacos Hadjiyianni expressed dissatisfaction with the administration’s actions, branding it a “disability government.”

    This remark elicited a strong rebuttal from Andreas Gregoriou, the permanent secretary of the agriculture ministry, who asserted that Cyprus has “not been left without water.”

  • Last Units Available at Shinko Residences in Limassol with Reduced VAT Offer

    Last Units Available at Shinko Residences in Limassol with Reduced VAT Offer

    Shinko Residences at Neapolis in Limassol offers a unique opportunity for homebuyers, with only three units left and a limited-time reduced VAT rate. This modern development, situated just 300 metres from the coastline, caters to those seeking both a luxurious lifestyle and a lucrative investment in one of Cyprus’s most desirable locations.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Prime Location with Exceptional Amenities

    The final units at Shinko Residences are positioned in Limassol’s vibrant Neapolis district, an area known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere. The properties feature cutting-edge engineering combined with elegant design, ensuring bright interiors and functional living spaces. Residents will enjoy proximity to the Mediterranean, enhancing the appeal of these high-yield homes.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Investment Potential

    With only three units remaining, prospective buyers are encouraged to act quickly. The real estate market in Limassol is on the rise, making this an opportune moment to invest before prices increase further. Shinko Residences promises not only a beautiful home but also significant savings through the reduced VAT rate, making it an attractive option for both local and international investors.

    Details of the Remaining Units

    Buyers can choose from one last third-floor apartment and two luxurious penthouses, each equipped with modern features and specifications that enhance comfort and security.

    • Third-Floor Apartment: €515,000 + VAT
      – Bedrooms: 2
      – Bathrooms: 2
      – Internal Area: 84m²
      – Covered Veranda: 24m²
      – Total Area: 123m²
    • Penthouses: €630,000 + VAT (two units available)
      – Bedrooms: 2+1
      – Bathrooms: 3
      – Internal Area: 84m²
      – Covered Veranda: 24m²
      – Roof Garden: 23m²
      – Total Area: 179m²

    Modern Features

    Each unit at Shinko Residences is designed with high-quality materials and includes a variety of amenities:

    • Solar photovoltaic panels
    • VRV air conditioning systems
    • Underfloor heating with heat pump
    • Electric shutters in bedrooms
    • Pressurised water system
    • Storage room and covered parking
    • CCTV and video entrance system
    • Intruder and fire detection systems
    • Reinforced security doors

    These state-of-the-art features not only enhance the living experience but also contribute to the sustainability of the development, aligning with the modern homeowner’s expectations.

    Experience Shinko Residences Virtually

    To fully appreciate the lifestyle offered at Shinko Residences, potential buyers can take a virtual reality tour of the project. This innovative approach allows interested parties to explore the property from the comfort of their own home, experiencing the sophistication and coastal harmony that await them.

    A Sustainable Future in Real Estate

    Shinko Residences is developed by Tor Properties, a company committed to creating sustainable, high-end living spaces. Their focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles ensures that each development not only meets the needs of today’s residents but also contributes positively to the community and environment.

    With a strong presence in Limassol, Tor Properties invites buyers to join in a real estate journey that prioritises both quality of life and investment potential.

    Contact for More Information

    For those interested in securing one of the last available units at Shinko Residences, additional information and site viewings can be arranged. Interested parties can reach out via email at info@tor.cy, or contact the team through WhatsApp at +357 96 54 00 00 or by calling 8000 8086.

  • Israeli Peacekeepers Proposed to Supplant UN Forces in Cyprus

    Israeli Peacekeepers Proposed to Supplant UN Forces in Cyprus

    Israeli peacekeepers should replace United Nations peacekeeping forces stationed in Cyprus, according to American pro-Israel analyst Michael Rubin. In a recent article for the National Security Journal, the former Pentagon official urged US President Donald Trump to dismantle what he described as “legacy zombie missions” of the UN, highlighting the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp) as a prime example.

    • "The observer mission continues, but Unficyp has become the poster child for UN zombie missions," Rubin asserts, emphasising the need for a more active role in maintaining peace in the region.

    Rubin argues that the UN’s credibility has waned significantly, pointing to the Turkish-occupied area in Cyprus, which he notes is more than nine times the size of the Gaza Strip. He critiques Unficyp, stating that it has become a mere observer rather than an effective peacekeeping mechanism.

    “The observer mission continues, but Unficyp has become the poster child for UN zombie missions,” Rubin asserts, emphasising the need for a more active role in maintaining peace in the region.

    Furthermore, he draws parallels with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinians in the Middle East (Unrwa), claiming it has been compromised by groups like Hamas. Rubin alleges that Unrwa has been co-opted, arguing that it should not be involved in post-war Gaza reconstruction, while accusing it of enabling indoctrination and weapons storage.

    His suggestions for Israeli peacekeepers come amid concerns about a proposal to include Turkish troops in an international stabilisation force in Gaza. Rubin warns that allowing Turkish forces into Gaza could escalate tensions, potentially igniting conflict across the region over time.

    “Allowing Turkey to send its forces to Gaza would light a fuse that could engulf the region, maybe not in a month or a year, but certainly within a decade or two,” he cautions. He also highlights that Turkey’s intelligence service is believed to support Hamas, threatening the stability of Israel and its neighbours.

    Rubin is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a Washington DC think tank, and his call for Israeli peacekeepers comes amid significant allegations against Unrwa. In early 2024, Israel accused Unrwa of complicity in the October 7, 2023 attacks, leading to aid cuts that were only partially reversed.

    A UN investigation subsequently found that nine Unrwa staff members “may” have been involved in the attack, resulting in their dismissal, while evidence against others was deemed insufficient. In October 2024, the Israeli parliament passed legislation prohibiting Unrwa from operating within Israel, further intensifying scrutiny of the agency.

    As of October 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel did not adequately substantiate its claims that a significant number of Unrwa’s employees were linked to Hamas or other terrorist factions. Amid these controversies, Israel itself faces allegations from South Africa and others regarding genocide in Gaza.

    In September, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, adding another layer to the ongoing discourse surrounding peacekeeping efforts in the region.

  • Right Lane of Limassol-Nicosia Highway Reopens After Car Overturns

    Right Lane of Limassol-Nicosia Highway Reopens After Car Overturns

    The right lane of the Limassol-Nicosia highway reopened to traffic at around 8am on Monday, following a temporary closure caused by a car overturning near the Kornos area.

    • The right lane of the Limassol-Nicosia highway reopened to traffic at around 8am on Monday, following a temporary closure caused by a car overturning near the Kornos area.
    • By 8am, the vehicle had been cleared, and traffic resumed its normal flow along this busy highway.

    Police reported that the vehicle overturned and came to a stop in the right lane at approximately 7am. Officers were quickly dispatched to the scene to provide assistance, manage traffic, and arrange for the car’s removal using a tow truck.

    By 8am, the vehicle had been cleared, and traffic resumed its normal flow along this busy highway.

    Authorities took the opportunity to remind drivers to exercise caution while using the road network. Police emphasised the importance of following the highway code and complying with traffic signals to prevent future accidents.

  • Paphos collision — Paphos collision: Six Children Injured in Paphos Traffic Collision Involving Two Families

    Paphos collision — Paphos collision: Six Children Injured in Paphos Traffic Collision Involving Two Families

    paphos collision — paphos collision — A traffic collision has resulted in injuries to six children in Paphos, highlighting the dangers of road travel. The incident occurred around 6:10 pm on Sunday, 2 November, on the Axylou-Nata road, when two vehicles collided under circumstances that are currently being investigated.

    A car, driven by a 42-year-old man with his 38-year-old wife and their three children—a girl aged 8, a boy aged 6, and another girl aged 3—was involved in the crash with another vehicle. This second car was driven by a 29-year-old man, accompanied by his 27-year-old wife and their three children: a 5-month-old girl, a 4-year-old girl, and a 2-year-old boy.

    All individuals involved were promptly taken to Paphos General Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, the 3-year-old daughter of the first family did not sustain any injuries. However, the 6-year-old boy suffered a fractured pelvis, and his 8-year-old sister experienced a collapsed lung.

    In the second vehicle, the 5-month-old baby suffered a head haematoma, while the 2-year-old boy sustained blunt trauma. The 4-year-old girl from the second family was treated for bruising to the head.

    As a precaution, the 3-year-old girl from the first family was kept at Paphos General Hospital, while the other children were transferred to Makarios Hospital in Nicosia for further treatment. The 42-year-old driver of the first car was discharged without injuries, but his wife, aged 38, required treatment for a fractured sternum and remained in hospital.

    The two adults from the second vehicle were kept for observation, but all individuals involved are now reported to be out of danger. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards on the roads and the importance of road safety.

  • Cypriot students — Cypriot Students Trapped in Tanzania Amid Political Unrest

    Cypriot students — Cypriot Students Trapped in Tanzania Amid Political Unrest

    cypriot students — cypriot students — The 14 students from Cyprus, who visited Tanzania on a voluntary work trip, are now trapped in the country due to severe political unrest. Originally scheduled to return today through Dubai, their plans were disrupted as flights were cancelled amidst escalating violence and civil disorder.

    Cypriot students: Current Situation in Tanzania

    In recent days, Tanzania has witnessed significant unrest, leading to a curfew being imposed. The military has reportedly intervened in the demonstrations, and there are alarming accounts of executions of citizens. This precarious environment has left the students and their parents in a state of distress.

    Concerns from Parents

    The parents of the students have reached out to the President of Cyprus, urging immediate action for the safe return of their children. They have also been actively engaging with officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stay informed about the measures being taken.

    Impact on Students

    As the unrest continues, the situation is beginning to take a toll on the students, aged 17 and 18. One student communicated to their family, expressing concern over their dwindling supplies, stating, “We have food for two more days.” Another parent reported that their child was feeling frightened and overwhelmed.

    Support from the Cypriot Government

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged the situation and is examining all options for the safe return of the 22 Cypriots currently in Tanzania, which includes the students, two teachers, and two chaperones from Greece. The spokesperson for the Ministry, Theodoros Gotsis, emphasised that coordinated efforts are being made between the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Nairobi and the Crisis Management Centre in Nicosia.

    Continuous Communication

    Gotsis assured that there is no immediate security threat to the group. The Ministry is maintaining contact with the parents and keeping them updated on the situation. Additionally, efforts are underway to collaborate with the EU delegation in Tanzania to facilitate a safe return.

    Emergency Contact Information

    In case of emergencies, Cypriot citizens in Tanzania can reach out to the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Kenya at +254 111051430. They can also send emails to hcnairobi@mfa.gov.cy or hcnairobiconsular@mfa.gov.cy. For further assistance, they can contact the Consular Affairs Directorate at +357 22 651113, or the Crisis Management Directorate at +357 22 801000 or +357 97 775998.

    Encouragement for Cypriot Citizens

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is encouraging Cypriot citizens abroad to register on the online platform, Connect2CY, to ensure their safety and receive timely updates on travel advisories and emergency situations.

    Future Steps

    As the situation unfolds, the parents and students maintain hope that the Cypriot government will take the necessary steps to ensure their safe return. The collective efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the cooperation with international bodies are crucial in navigating this challenging scenario.

  • Car Owners Face Rising Costs from Electric Scooter Collisions

    Car Owners Face Rising Costs from Electric Scooter Collisions

    Car owners in Cyprus are increasingly out of pocket after collisions with electric scooters and other two-wheeled vehicles, as legal gaps hinder police intervention. Social media platforms have become a repository for videos and posts from frustrated drivers who have experienced damage to their vehicles due to these incidents.

    Electric scooter: Frustration on the Roads

    Numerous clips shared on TikTok and Instagram depict parked cars that have been clipped or scratched by electric scooters, often leaving owners to bear the financial burden of repairs. One viral video showed a BMW with a dent, reportedly incurring a repair bill of around €600 after a scooter collided with it in Limassol. Another case involved a Nicosia vehicle owner facing damages of €450 from a similar incident. These accounts highlight a growing issue that is affecting motorists across the island.

    Police Clarify Their Limitations

    In an interview with the Sunday Mail, police confirmed their limited capacity to handle collisions involving electric scooters, which are officially termed personal mobility devices (PMDs). The police stated, “Where there are serious traffic offences, serious injuries, or significant material damage, the police proceed to investigate a road collision involving a PMD or a bicycle. Otherwise, we cannot intervene.” This limitation leaves many victims without recourse.

    Rising Incidents and Fines

    From 2023 to 2024, authorities issued a staggering 3,996 fines related to PMD offences. Among these, 1,592 fines were for usage in prohibited areas, and 363 for operating outside designated lanes. The police underscored the risks faced by PMD users, noting that they are particularly vulnerable on roads where speed limits exceed 30 km/h.

    Legislative Gaps Creating Vulnerability

    The current legal framework governing electric scooters is still pending in parliament, leaving victims of accidents unprotected and without options for compensation. Green Party MP Stavros Papadouris emphasised the urgent need for reform: “Depending on the area, supervision can fall under either the police or the municipality. If the situation is not fixed, there’s a risk that the legislation itself will collapse.”

    He pointed out the critical issue of a lack of registration and insurance for these vehicles. “These vehicles are not recorded anywhere and have no insurance coverage. We proposed a separate registry with identification plates and mandatory insurance so owners can be traced and costs covered,” he explained.

    The Human Cost of Legal Gaps

    Papadouris highlighted the severe consequences of the current legal shortcomings, citing a motorcyclist who spent three months in hospital after colliding with an uninsured e-scooter, losing his job as a result. “If the government wanted, it could step in voluntarily, recognising the legal gap. But there are no legislative tools for that,” he added.

    Calls for Stricter Regulations

    Disy MP Marinos Moushioutas stated that the House is considering stricter regulations to address these issues, noting, “They are not insured, so we cannot intervene when an accident happens. Because the necessary measures are not being taken by the police, local authorities, scooter importers, and rental companies, we proposed banning scooters as a pressure measure.” He indicated that similar measures have been successfully implemented in other European countries.

    Municipal Challenges

    Municipalities are also grappling with the enforcement of existing laws. Kyriakos Xydias, mayor of Amathus, expressed concerns about legislative delays. “The scooters are a matter of legislation that has been passed. They are allowed to circulate below a certain speed limit, but there is no insurance. We have made professional plans, properly and legally, but we are not ready yet,” he stated.

    Awareness and Enforcement Gaps

    Haris Christodoulou, an executive engineer at the transport ministry, acknowledged the enforcement gaps despite ongoing awareness campaigns. “We seek from all involved to take responsibility under the law and act within their powers. The absence of proper enforcement is the issue,” he said.

    Proposed Solutions for Accountability

    The police have suggested additional measures to improve accountability, such as retaining PMDs used in prohibited areas. “The bill should include provisions to ensure smooth implementation, including storage arrangements for retained PMDs,” they commented.

    Currently, the lack of insurance coverage remains a significant barrier for victims seeking compensation. Papadouris reiterated the necessity for a comprehensive system that includes registration and insurance to protect all road users. “For the system to work, there needs to be a complete micromobility network connecting all areas without gaps,” he argued.

    Urgent Need for Legislative Action

    The human and financial costs associated with scooter collisions are mounting, with repair bills ranging from €300 to €750 per incident. High-traffic areas, such as university districts and promenades, are witnessing frequent collisions, prompting many drivers to alter their routes and parking strategies to avoid scooters.

    As parliament continues to deliberate on e-scooter legislation, car owners remain uncertain about their responsibilities and liabilities. The situation underscores a broader issue of accountability in Cyprus’s burgeoning micromobility sector. With nearly 4,000 PMD-related fines issued in just two years and injuries already reported, the urgency for a coherent and enforceable law is evident.

  • No Evidence of Child Pornography Found; 30-Year-Old Turkish Cypriot Released

    No Evidence of Child Pornography Found; 30-Year-Old Turkish Cypriot Released

    The 30-year-old Turkish Cypriot, previously detained on suspicion of acquiring access to child pornography, has been released after investigators found no evidence on his mobile phone.

    • The 30-year-old Turkish Cypriot, previously detained on suspicion of acquiring access to child pornography, has been released after investigators found no evidence on his mobile phone.
    • The examination of the phone's contents revealed no incriminating evidence, leading to the decision to charge him in writing before his release at one o'clock on Sunday afternoon.
    • Officials have confirmed that the case file has been forwarded to the Law Office for further evaluation and instructions regarding the next steps.

    Following his appearance at the Nicosia District Court last Friday, a three-day detention order was issued. However, after an examination by the police, it was determined that there were no links between the suspect’s digital accounts and the alleged offences.

    According to the Police Press Office, the suspect voluntarily handed over his mobile device and provided the necessary codes, even allowing for face recognition access to facilitate the investigation.

    The examination of the phone’s contents revealed no incriminating evidence, leading to the decision to charge him in writing before his release at one o’clock on Sunday afternoon.

    Officials have confirmed that the case file has been forwarded to the Law Office for further evaluation and instructions regarding the next steps.

  • Lost at Sea: Man Rescued Off Limassol

    Lost at Sea: Man Rescued Off Limassol

    lost at — A man was rescued from the sea off Limassol after the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre launched an emergency search and rescue plan named Nearchos.

    • lost at — A man was rescued from the sea off Limassol after the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre launched an emergency search and rescue plan named Nearchos.

    The operation was initiated at 2.20 pm in the Ayios Georgios Alaminou area, involving multiple agencies. Teams from the port and naval police, alongside the navy’s underwater disasters unit, joined forces with a helicopter to locate the individual.

    By 3.30 pm, the efforts bore fruit as the person was identified and successfully pulled from the water by a crew aboard a port police boat. Following the rescue, he was handed over to the ambulance service for medical examinations, ensuring he received the necessary care after his ordeal.

  • Cypriots tanzania: Efforts Underway to Bring Home Cypriots Stranded in Tanzania

    Cypriots tanzania: Efforts Underway to Bring Home Cypriots Stranded in Tanzania

    cypriots tanzania — cypriots tanzania — Efforts are ongoing to bring home 22 Cypriots trapped in Tanzania, as confirmed by ministry spokesman Theodoros Gotsis on Sunday. Among them are 14 teenage students from a private school in Nicosia, who were in the country for a volunteer programme. They are currently accompanied by four adults.

    Gotsis assured that the group is safe, being located far from any areas of unrest. The foreign ministry has been in regular contact with the parents of the students to provide updates on their situation.

    To facilitate the safe return of those stranded in Tanzania, the Cypriot authorities are coordinating with the UNHCR in Nairobi. They are also reaching out to the EU delegation in Tanzania to assist in the repatriation process.

    In light of the ongoing unrest in the region, Gotsis has urged any other Cypriots currently in Tanzania to make contact with the authorities. The foreign ministry issued a travel advisory last Friday, warning Cypriots to exercise caution if travelling to Tanzania due to the volatile situation.

    Citizens in Tanzania have been advised to reach out for assistance through the contact numbers provided in the advisory. The high commission in Kenya can be reached at +254 111051430, while the ministry in Cyprus can be contacted at +357 22 651113, +357 22 801000, or +357 97 775998. Cypriots are also encouraged to register with the online platform Connect2CY to ensure they stay connected while abroad.