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  • Overnight pharmacies — Overnight Pharmacies Open Across Cyprus on August 27

    Overnight pharmacies — Overnight Pharmacies Open Across Cyprus on August 27

    Overnight pharmacies: Find Your Nearest Overnight Pharmacy in Cyprus

    overnight pharmacies — On August 27, a selection of overnight pharmacies will be available across Cyprus, ensuring that residents have access to essential medications and health services during the night.

    Nicosia’s Overnight Options

    Nicosia will host several pharmacies ready to serve the public. Here are the details:

    • Rizakou Maria, Armenias 5A, Strovolos (near traffic lights with Limassol Avenue), tel. 22333670, 96208285.
    • Koutroulos Theocharis, 28th October 42A, Engomi (Ice cream road), tel. 22350091, 22721945.
    • Lymburas Charalampos, Tseriou Avenue 229, Strovolos (below ‘Green Dot’), tel. 22524919, 99278255.
    • Christodoulidis Charis, Andreas Avraamidis 49, Dasoupoli (near ‘Aretion’ hospital), tel. 22879747.
    • Angelis Eleni, Anthoupolis 60, Lakatamia (near ‘Nicosia Mall’ roundabout), tel. 22252324.
    • Balanasios Anis, Independence 1, Lympia, tel. 22524387.

    Limassol’s Late-night Pharmacies

    In Limassol, residents can find the following pharmacies open for overnight service:

    • Charalambous Charis, Miltonos 56, Agios Spyridonas (opposite ‘febalcasa’ furniture), tel. 25710330, 25770285.
    • Malioti Chrysanthi, Georgios Averof 26 (near Agios Ioannis Lyceum), tel. 25567939, 99461515.
    • Paraskeva Olga & Stavroula, Makarios III Avenue 98 (next to ‘Fairways’), Polemidia, tel. 25335220, 25387104.
    • Koskinas Savvas, Archbishop Makarios III Avenue 8, Mesa Geitonia, tel. 25728205, 25728210.
    • Koupepas Andreas, Anoikodimiseos 37B (north of Linopetras roundabout), Agios Athanasios, tel. 25724545, 99468643.

    Larnaca’s Night Services

    Larnaca will also have pharmacies operating overnight:

    • Zacharia Zacharo, 1st April Avenue 87, Aradippou, tel. 24322050.
    • Ramirez Lydia, Papanikolis Avenue 31A (near Anorthosis Stadium), tel. 24634390, 96323458.
    • Mouosa Chasan, Griva Digeni 60 (towards new AEK building), tel. 24400635, 96472961.

    Paphos Pharmacies for Night-time Needs

    Paphos residents can visit these pharmacies during the night:

    • Makariou Georgios, Neapolis 20 (end of Apostolos Pavlos church road), tel. 26936989, 26938949.
    • Roidis Sofia, Agios Anargiros 21 (opposite Agios Anargiros church), Kato Paphos, tel. 26221300, 26931985.

    Famagusta’s Available Pharmacies

    In Famagusta, the following pharmacies will be open overnight:

    • Kefala Roula, 1st April 111, Paralimni, tel. 23730116, 23821516.
    • Pittatzii Kornilia, 1st April 10C (near Hellenic Bank), Sotira, tel. 23824730, 23823308.

    These pharmacies are vital for providing immediate access to medications and health advice, especially during the late hours when other healthcare facilities may be closed. For anyone in need of urgent pharmaceutical care, these listed pharmacies serve their communities by ensuring that assistance is just a phone call away.

  • School supplies — Support for Fire-Affected Families with School Supplies

    School supplies — Support for Fire-Affected Families with School Supplies

    school supplies — Families affected by the Limassol fire will be offered gift vouchers to buy school supplies, according to the Pancyprian Volunteerism Council (PVCC). The initiative aims to support the education of 218 students impacted by the disaster.

    • Vouchers will be distributed by community leaders in Kyvides, Pachna, and Souni-Zanakia, helping families recover from the devastating wildfire that swept through the mountainous area of Limassol.

    School supplies: Community Leaders Step Up

    Vouchers will be distributed by community leaders in Kyvides, Pachna, and Souni-Zanakia, helping families recover from the devastating wildfire that swept through the mountainous area of Limassol.

    Pledging Support for Local Communities

    “The council stands by the local communities, and their support is our duty,” said PVCC president Elias Demetriou. This initiative reflects the council’s commitment to assist those in need during challenging times.

    Response to the Wildfire Disaster

    The wildfire, which occurred on July 23, resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, burned over one per cent of the island, and destroyed hundreds of homes and structures. In the wake of this catastrophe, the PVCC has mobilised efforts to ensure families receive the help they need.

    Community Generosity Shines Through

    Despite the difficulties faced, the PVCC noted an outpouring of support from both individuals and companies. Many responded quickly to the crisis by donating essential items such as cleaning supplies and food to help affected families.

    Ensuring Legal Fundraising

    In addition to providing immediate assistance, the PVCC is also taking steps to crack down on illegal fundraising efforts. This move aims to ensure that all support initiatives are legitimate and to safeguard the interests of citizens.

  • Uncertainty Surrounds Cyprus’ Gaza Aid Shipment

    Uncertainty Surrounds Cyprus’ Gaza Aid Shipment

    gaza aid — gaza aid — The fate of the 1,200 tonnes of aid sent from Cyprus to Gaza last week remains unclear. As of 11am on Wednesday, satellite data indicated that the ship carrying the aid, the Panamanian-flagged Henke, was still stationed off the coast of Ashdod, Israel, rather than docked at the port.

    Initially, the Henke was expected to unload its cargo last Wednesday, but this timeline was subsequently pushed back to Sunday or Monday. Victor Papadopoulos, director of the presidential press office, informed the Cyprus Mail that no evidence of an artificial holdup in the aid transfer had been found, while foreign ministry spokesman Theodoros Gotsis stated that there were no problems regarding the aid transfer.

    Despite these assurances, questions loom about the current status of the shipment. It is uncertain if the ship has unloaded its cargo and, if so, why it remains anchored off Ashdod. If the aid successfully reaches Ashdod, it would then be transported overland to Gaza through the Erez crossing point.

    Repeated attempts by the Cyprus Mail to contact government officials for clarification have gone unanswered. Previously, Papadopoulos had mentioned on CyBC radio that the government was monitoring the situation and acknowledged the difficulties surrounding the transfer of aid to Gaza.

    He expressed hope that any existing problems would be resolved, allowing the aid to reach those in need. “We collected the material from various donors, and we contributed, we created the mechanisms, we sent the mission,” he stated. He also highlighted the complex security situation and the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of aid deliverers.

    Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen. Recent reports indicate that an Israeli military strike on a hospital has resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, including journalists working for prominent outlets such as Reuters, the Associated Press, and Al Jazeera. The United Nations has called for thorough investigations into this incident and others, with human rights spokesman Thameen Al-Keetan condemning the strike as “a shock” and “unacceptable.”

    The uncertainty surrounding the aid shipment parallels the troubled history of the Amalthea plan, Cyprus’ humanitarian aid corridor to Gaza. Sigrid Kaag, the UN’s special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, remarked last year that the Amalthea project could “never be a substitute” for land-based aid deliveries.

    In the past, aid has also been delivered to Gaza from Cyprus via a temporary jetty built and financed by the United States. However, this jetty faced numerous challenges and was only operational for a brief period before being dismantled. Installed in May last year, it was removed two months later after suffering structural damage during high winds.

    The jetty had been reattached following repairs but was removed again due to fears it could break apart once more. Additionally, delivery issues arose when the UN World Food Programme suspended operations related to the jetty after an Israeli military operation reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 200 Palestinians.

    Tragically, prior to these events, in April last year, seven aid workers transporting humanitarian aid overland from Cyprus were killed in simultaneous Israeli airstrikes. The complexities and dangers involved in delivering aid to Gaza remain a significant concern.

  • Attempted murder — Second Arrest Made in Pyla Attempted Murder Case

    Attempted murder — Second Arrest Made in Pyla Attempted Murder Case

    A second man has been arrested in connection with an attempted murder case that also involved the arson of four cars in Pyla earlier this month.

    • A second man has been arrested in connection with an attempted murder case that also involved the arson of four cars in Pyla earlier this month.
    • On Tuesday, a 27-year-old man was taken into custody following a court warrant, as confirmed by local police on Wednesday. This arrest comes just weeks after the initial incident.
    • As investigations continue, both suspects remain under scrutiny, and police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

    On Tuesday, a 27-year-old man was taken into custody following a court warrant, as confirmed by local police on Wednesday. This arrest comes just weeks after the initial incident.

    Previously, on August 21, an 18-year-old was arrested for the same offences. He appeared before the Larnaca district court the very next day, where a remand order was issued, keeping him in custody for eight days as investigations unfolded.

    Authorities in Larnaca are diligently pursuing their inquiries into this troubling case. The incidents have raised concerns within the community, prompting police to intensify their efforts to ensure public safety.

    As investigations continue, both suspects remain under scrutiny, and police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

  • Banner — Man Charged Following Controversial Banner Displayed at Football Match

    Banner — Man Charged Following Controversial Banner Displayed at Football Match

    A 32-year-old man has been charged in connection with a political banner displayed during a football match featuring Apoel fans, according to police reports.

    • A 32-year-old man has been charged in connection with a political banner displayed during a football match featuring Apoel fans, according to police reports.

    The incident occurred on Sunday when supporters raised banners containing discriminatory language at the match between Krasava ENY and Apoel. The display prompted immediate concern and launched an investigation by local authorities.

    Authorities acted swiftly, issuing a court warrant against the suspect, a resident of Paphos. He was arrested on Tuesday afternoon after the warrant was executed. Following the arrest, the man was charged and subsequently released.

    As investigations continue, Larnaca police are examining the circumstances surrounding the banner’s display and its implications. The situation has sparked discussions about the role of political expressions in sporting events and the responsibility of fans to uphold respectful conduct.

  • Fire Brigade Rescues Man After Fall from Two Storeys

    Fire Brigade Rescues Man After Fall from Two Storeys

    two storeys — An injured man who fell from a two-storey building in Aradippou was rescued by the fire brigade on Tuesday afternoon.

    • two storeys — An injured man who fell from a two-storey building in Aradippou was rescued by the fire brigade on Tuesday afternoon.
    • The local fire brigade has not released further details about the man's condition following the incident, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall are ongoing.

    At 1.02 PM, emergency services received a call regarding an incident involving a man attempting to climb into a room of the building using a ladder. Unfortunately, during his attempt, he lost his footing and fell, resulting in injuries.

    The fire brigade promptly dispatched a vehicle and a team to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the man in need of immediate assistance. Rescuers worked swiftly to secure him to a stretcher before transporting him to Larnaca General Hospital’s Accident and Emergency department for treatment.

    The local fire brigade has not released further details about the man’s condition following the incident, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall are ongoing.

  • EuroBasket 2025: Cyprus Set for Historic Tournament Hosting

    EuroBasket 2025: Cyprus Set for Historic Tournament Hosting

    EuroBasket 2025 presents an exciting opportunity for Cyprus to shine on the international stage, as the tournament will take place at Limassol’s Spyros Kyprianou Sports Centre from August 28 to September 4. This marks the first time the island will host such a prestigious basketball event, with Deputy Minister of Tourism Costas Koumis expressing great enthusiasm for the occasion.

    Koumis stated that the event is a “first-class opportunity” to showcase Cyprus not just as a tourist destination, but also as a capable venue for international sporting events. He conveyed his satisfaction at Cyprus being chosen to host EuroBasket 2025, emphasising its potential to attract millions of viewers worldwide.

    Local organisers anticipate a significant influx of visitors, estimating that a five-digit number of foreign tourists will arrive for the tournament. This surge is expected to provide a substantial boost to local tourism and businesses alike. The broadcast coverage of the event is projected to reach, or possibly exceed, the 300 million viewers who tuned into EuroBasket 2022, further enhancing the island’s visibility.

    With the participation of five elite national teams and over 80 athletes competing at the highest levels of European and international basketball, the event promises to be a spectacle. Koumis noted the significance of having the Cyprus national basketball team compete for the first time in EuroBasket, marking a proud moment for the country.

    Eurobasket 2025: Festivities and Fan Engagement in Limassol

    As the opening match approaches, Limassol is already embracing the EuroBasket atmosphere. The city will feature a Fan Zone at the Old Port throughout the competition, where visitors can engage in entertainment activities and watch live screenings of the games. This initiative aims to create a vibrant community spirit and draw in basketball fans from near and far.

    Additionally, foreign journalists covering EuroBasket 2025 will have the chance to explore Lefkara on September 1, experiencing Cypriot traditions and tasting local delicacies. Koumis highlighted that sports tourism is a priority for the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, which actively supports EuroBasket 2025 and other sporting events scheduled for Cyprus in the coming months.

    Ensuring Safety and Security

    Organisers are prioritising safety measures for the event, implementing strategies that include drones, sniffer dogs, and an increased police presence. Security rehearsals have already been conducted at the Spyros Kyprianou Sports Centre to test logistics, crowd management, and emergency procedures, ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.

    Economic Boost and International Exposure

    Beyond safety, EuroBasket 2025 is anticipated to yield substantial economic benefits for Cyprus, with estimates suggesting an impact of €13–17 million. The influx of thousands of visitors is expected to invigorate local businesses, while the tournament will provide Cyprus with invaluable international exposure.

    The Cyprus Basketball Federation views EuroBasket as a pivotal moment that places the island firmly on the international basketball map. Federation president Andreas Mouzourides expressed pride in the completed arena renovations, which were finished ahead of schedule, allowing organisers to focus on presenting the best image abroad.

    Mark Klerides, president of the organising committee, underscored the importance of sponsors such as Allianz, EKO, and the Bank of Cyprus, along with ticketing partner more.com, in making this event a reality. Their support has been crucial in preparing for what is set to be a landmark occasion for both Cyprus and the sport of basketball.

  • Greek cypriots — Parliament Speaker Appeals to EU Leaders Over Detained Greek Cypriots

    Greek cypriots — Parliament Speaker Appeals to EU Leaders Over Detained Greek Cypriots

    Parliament Speaker Annita Demetriou has reached out to European leaders regarding the detention of five Greek Cypriots in the occupied areas. In formal letters sent to European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly President Theodoros Roussopoulos, she expressed urgent concerns surrounding their continued imprisonment.

    Greek cypriots: Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts

    According to a parliamentary announcement, the Cyprus government is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to address this situation. Demetriou’s correspondence urges both Metsola and Roussopoulos to leverage their positions to facilitate the release of the detained individuals, while also calling for Turkey to comply with international obligations related to human rights.

    Allegations of Political Retaliation

    The parliament speaker has described the arrest and ongoing detention of the Greek Cypriots, which began on 19th July, as a premeditated political act of reprisals. This incident is allegedly linked to the Republic of Cyprus’s lawful prosecution of foreign nationals who have been appropriating Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied regions.

    Violation of International Law

    Demetriou emphasised that the actions taken by the regime in the north represent a flagrant violation of international law and infringe upon the fundamental human rights of displaced Greek Cypriots. Many of these individuals sought to visit properties that have been under Turkish military occupation since 1974.

    Intimidation Tactics

    The parliament speaker stated, “These tactics clearly aim to terrorise and prevent Greek Cypriots from visiting their properties and seeking restoration of their rights.” Her comments underscore the broader implications of these actions on the ongoing negotiations regarding the Cyprus issue.

    Impact on Negotiation Efforts

    Demetriou pointed out that the property issue is a fundamental component of a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem, as recognised under international and European law. She expressed concern that such actions undermine prospects for the resumption of negotiations aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict.

    Contradicting Confidence-Building Measures

    These intimidation tactics further complicate the creation of a climate of trust, which has been advocated by the UN Secretary-General. Instead, they appear to align with Turkey’s demand for a “two-state” solution and its ultimate goal of de jure partition of Cyprus.

    A Call for International Attention

    Demetriou’s letters represent Cyprus’s latest diplomatic endeavour to highlight what it perceives as systematic violations of the rights of displaced persons. The case of the five detained Greek Cypriots is emblematic of the ongoing challenges faced by property owners in the occupied areas, where their fundamental rights are at stake under international law.

  • Kombos — Kombos Engages with Qatari Prime Minister Al Thani in Doha

    Kombos — Kombos Engages with Qatari Prime Minister Al Thani in Doha

    Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos met with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on Monday in Doha, marking a significant step in fostering stronger ties between Cyprus and Qatar.

    The discussions held during this meeting centred on several pivotal topics, including the ongoing strengthening of relations between the two nations and Cyprus’s upcoming six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union. The foreign ministry emphasised the importance of collaboration amid current regional challenges.

    Kombos: Addressing Regional Developments

    Kombos and Al Thani’s dialogue also touched upon pressing regional developments, particularly the situation in Syria and the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza. The conversation highlighted efforts to secure the release of hostages and ensure humanitarian aid reaches civilians affected by the ongoing conflict.

    Previous Engagements and Diplomatic Relations

    This meeting followed their previous conversation in June, shortly after a brief conflict involving Iran and Israel. At that time, Kombos had praised Qatar’s leadership role in facilitating de-escalation. The Qatari Prime Minister had been in the spotlight due to the missile attacks on the US’s Al Udeid airbase, a response to US actions against Iranian nuclear facilities. Following these events, Qatar played a crucial role in mediating peace efforts, which led to a ceasefire announced by then-US President Donald Trump.

    Strengthening Cyprus-Qatar Ties

    Relations between Cyprus and Qatar have been on an upward trajectory in recent years. President Nikos Christodoulides previously referred to Cyprus as Qatar’s “ambassador in Brussels,” emphasising the strategic partnership and mutual interests shared by the two nations. During Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s visit to Nicosia last year, discussions further solidified their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and regional cooperation.

    Both leaders expressed optimism about the prospects for future collaboration, recognising the shared geographical and cultural ties that bind their nations. As Cyprus prepares for its role in the EU Council presidency, the discussions with Qatar are expected to play a crucial role in shaping regional diplomacy.

  • Pentakomo Fish Farming Port Clarified by Authorities

    Pentakomo Fish Farming Port Clarified by Authorities

    The planned fish farming port at Pentakomo has been misrepresented in recent reports, prompting officials to clarify its purpose and scale. Authorities on Monday moved to quash speculation that the project has spiralled into a massive operation that could jeopardise marine habitats and endangered species.

    • Despite the assurances from authorities, there is an ongoing administrative appeal filed by NGOs against the project. The outcomes of the upcoming court hearings are anticipated shortly.

    In a joint statement, the departments of fisheries, the environment, and public works addressed claims that the facility had expanded from a simple fishing harbour to what was described as a “mammoth port”. Officials labelled such reports as inaccurate, emphasising the importance of addressing the “spread of misinformation” regarding the project.

    The departments confirmed that the fishing complex, once completed, is expected to handle over 50 per cent of the national production of fishery products. This will include both sea and land infrastructures, designed specifically to support local aquaculture.

    Contrary to claims of disproportionate scale, the port will accommodate only 35 vessels, a figure that is notably lower than most existing fishing shelters. This specification was reiterated by the departments, who assured that the project remains within the parameters set in the contract.

    All necessary permits, including environmental and construction-related approvals, have been secured. “Based on the scientific assessment carried out by experts, no major or irreversible adverse impacts on marine species or habitats are expected,” the statement continued, highlighting a commitment to responsible development.

    To mitigate any potential environmental impacts, the contractor is adhering to strict guidelines, including the installation of silt curtains in the affected area. Furthermore, experts have confirmed that there will be no significant impacts on the monk seal population in the region.

    An external environmental inspector has been appointed to oversee the project, ensuring compliance with environmental standards. The contractor is also required to submit regular environmental reports to maintain transparency and accountability.

    On land, the infrastructure developments will proceed as planned, with no alterations to the original design. This project, which is set to enhance aquaculture facilities in Pentakomo, follows a contract worth nearly €34 million signed in October 2024 between the government and a private consortium.

    The initiative includes the construction of port and land facilities that will support aquaculture farmers in the area. Specific features will comprise breakwaters made from natural and artificial boulders, the dredging of a new port basin, docks, and various buildings.

    Despite the assurances from authorities, there is an ongoing administrative appeal filed by NGOs against the project. The outcomes of the upcoming court hearings are anticipated shortly.