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Tag: international cooperation

  • Bahrain king: Christodoulides Commends Bahrain’s King for Visionary Leadership

    Bahrain king: Christodoulides Commends Bahrain’s King for Visionary Leadership

    bahrain king — bahrain king — President Nikos Christodoulides has praised the wise and visionary leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain during his two-day visit to the kingdom. In a heartfelt note written in the guestbook at the royal palace, Christodoulides expressed admiration for the king’s efforts in establishing Bahrain as a beacon of international cooperation, interfaith dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.

    • As discussions unfold during this significant visit, the future of Cyprus-Bahrain relations appears promising, with both nations poised to deepen their cooperation in various critical areas.

    Highlighting the strong bilateral relations between Cyprus and Bahrain, Christodoulides acknowledged the significant roles played by both the king and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa in advancing these ties. He remarked on their unwavering support, stating, “I wish his majesty a long and prosperous reign and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain continued peace, prosperity, and success. May the friendship between our two countries last a long time.”

    On Sunday, shortly after his arrival, Christodoulides engaged in a private meeting with the king, which set the stage for extensive discussions between delegations from both nations. This visit is part of a broader strategy outlined by the Cypriot government to strengthen and deepen relations with Gulf states.

    Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasised the importance of the visit, stating that it reflects a clear political will to enhance cooperation with Bahrain across various sectors, including politics, economy, energy, culture, and defence. According to Letymbiotis, the relationship has been developing steadily, culminating in the decision to establish a Cypriot embassy in Manama later this year.

    The inauguration of this embassy is set to take place during Christodoulides’ visit, with Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos in attendance. Letymbiotis further described the visit as a reflection of Cyprus’ strategic choice to reinforce its role as a reliable and active partner in the region, particularly in promoting stability and cooperation between the European Union and Gulf states.

    Earlier this year, Christodoulides articulated his intention to leverage Cyprus’ geographical position to enhance relations between the EU and the Middle East during Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of the EU. He noted, “The Republic of Cyprus will not only continue but will also substantially strengthen its efforts to further strengthen relations between the EU and the countries of the wider Middle East region.” This indicates a commitment to fostering better ties and engagement in the region.

    As discussions unfold during this significant visit, the future of Cyprus-Bahrain relations appears promising, with both nations poised to deepen their cooperation in various critical areas.

  • Missing sailboat — Four Israelis Rescued After Missing Sailboat Found Between Cyprus and Israel

    Missing sailboat — Four Israelis Rescued After Missing Sailboat Found Between Cyprus and Israel

    missing sailboat — missing sailboat — Four Israeli nationals have been safely located after their sailboat was reported missing in the waters between Cyprus and Israel. This successful rescue concludes a significant search and rescue operation that began when the vessel, which had set sail from Israel on 2 December, failed to arrive in Crete as planned.

    The Cyprus Joint Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) played a pivotal role in the search, coordinating efforts throughout the day. The JRCC activated the national ‘Nearchos’ search and rescue plan, which involved collaboration with both Greek and Israeli authorities. Cypriot air assets were mobilised to aid in the search, along with assistance from nearby commercial vessels that were in the area.

    According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, officials worked closely with their counterparts in Greece and Cyprus to locate the missing sailors, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in maritime emergencies. The vessel was located successfully today, bringing relief to the families of those onboard.

    As the situation unfolded, concerns arose regarding the circumstances under which the sailboat departed from Israel. An investigation has been ordered to examine why the vessel was permitted to leave, especially given the weather warnings that were in effect at the time, signalling a storm system approaching the region.

    This rescue operation demonstrates the commitment of authorities in Cyprus and Israel to ensure the safety of their citizens at sea, and the swift response from multiple agencies played a crucial role in bringing this incident to a positive conclusion.

  • Cyprus Defence Ministry to Finalise National Plan for EU Safe Funding

    Cyprus Defence Ministry to Finalise National Plan for EU Safe Funding

    eu safe — eu safe — The Cyprus defence ministry will convene the defence industry council in the coming days to finalise the national action plan for the European Union’s Safe financial instrument. Defence capability development and armament director Panayiotis Hadjipavlis confirmed the meeting’s details during an interview with the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).

    Eu safe: Extraordinary Meeting Scheduled

    Chaired by Defence Minister Vassilis Palmas, the council will hold an extraordinary meeting to assess the ministry’s progress and establish final recommendations. These recommendations are crucial for the plan’s submission to the European Commission, which is due by November 30.

    Preparations Underway Since June

    Hadjipavlis explained that the ministry has been diligently preparing the Safe investment plan since June, with the intention of incorporating Cypriot defence and technology companies wherever feasible. The council comprises various stakeholders, including the presidents of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve), the Employers and Industrialists Federation (Oev), and the Cyprus Defence Industry Association.

    Strengthening International Cooperation

    The defence ministry is actively participating in and co-organising events with foreign partners to enhance collaboration between Cypriot and international defence companies. Upcoming activities will involve the UK Ministry of Defence, as well as the embassies of France and Poland, focusing on joint research, technology development, and procurement strategies.

    Recent European Defence Agency Visit

    A team from the European Defence Agency (EDA) visited Cyprus on October 23-24 to explore new opportunities for cooperation with EU member states. During this visit, the EDA’s executive director met with Minister Palmas. Hadjipavlis remarked that relations between Cyprus and the agency are “excellent,” highlighting Cyprus as one of the agency’s staunchest supporters within the EU framework.

    Innovative Defence Research Initiatives

    As part of ongoing research and innovation efforts, a demonstration showcasing two completed projects under the Athena defence research programme is scheduled for November 10 at a National Guard base. These projects include an anti-drone system and a situational awareness platform designed to assist battlefield decision-making. Furthermore, two new programmes, Athena 2 and Athena Plus, are being prepared for launch in 2026 to expand upon these initiatives.

    Growing Defence Sector Landscape

    Currently, around 30 Cypriot companies are engaged in the defence sector, with a rising interest from firms specialising in dual-use technologies. Hadjipavlis noted that several Cypriot companies have already joined European Defence Fund consortia, positioning Cyprus seventh in Europe for successful funding applications.

    Upcoming Defence Events and Collaborations

    Several significant defence events are on the horizon, including a conference focused on technological advancements in the sector, taking place on November 11-12, under the auspices of the defence ministry. Additionally, the ministry will participate in a joint event organised by Keve and the French Embassy, in collaboration with the deputy ministry of research, aimed at promoting modern technologies and dual-use products.

    Future Conferences and Initiatives

    In early 2025, a bilateral conference will be co-organised with the UK Ministry of Defence and the Cyprus High Commission in London, aimed at fostering partnerships between defence industry associations from both nations. Another event with the Polish Embassy in Nicosia will concentrate on cybersecurity and cyber defence collaboration.

    Comprehensive Development Toolkit in Progress

    The ministry is also engaged in discussions with European experts to develop a comprehensive toolkit for the Cypriot defence industry. This includes formulating a national defence industry strategy, a detailed action plan, and necessary updates to legislation and the national defence industry registry.

    Significant EU Funding Secured

    Cyprus has successfully secured €500,000 in EU funding to advance this development package following a competitive selection process. Hadjipavlis pointed out that Cyprus stands out as one of the few EU countries to receive such support, contrasting with many others that rely on national budgets for similar initiatives.

  • Money laundering — Authorities Seize €63.2 Million in Major Money Laundering Crackdown

    Money laundering — Authorities Seize €63.2 Million in Major Money Laundering Crackdown

    Authorities seized assets worth €63.2 million in 2024 as part of a significant money laundering crackdown, a remarkable increase from approximately €1 million in 2023, according to the latest data from the anti-money laundering unit.

    • Following successful prosecutions, confiscation orders transferring ownership of frozen assets to the state totalled €372,695 for domestic cases and £17,993 for foreign requests.
    • A new European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) will be established to oversee the coordination of national agencies, ensuring consistent implementation of these rules.

    Money laundering: Domestic and International Efforts Yield Results

    The Unit for Combating Money Laundering (MOKAS), operating under the Attorney General’s office, played a crucial role in these operations. This year, MOKAS froze €8.5 million linked to domestic criminal investigations, while €54.7 million was restrained following requests from foreign jurisdictions.

    Targeted Actions Against Luxury Assets

    In a concerted effort to combat organised crime, authorities executed court orders resulting in the seizure of €1.91 million in cash, alongside $6,163. They also confiscated 25 properties valued at €5.075 million and 30 motor vehicles worth €430,000. Additional seizures included a boat valued at €9,500, 119 jewellery items worth approximately €1 million, and various luxury goods.

    Increased Requests Highlight Growing Collaboration

    In 2024, police requests to MOKAS surged by 36%, resulting in 129 cases, while requests from the customs department skyrocketed by 90%, reaching 38 cases. This surge reflects a growing collaboration among different law enforcement agencies.

    International Cooperation Leads to Major Asset Restraints

    Significant asset restraints were achieved through international judicial cooperation, totalling €54.7 million. Foreign court orders registered in Cyprus facilitated the seizure of €2.44 million, $4.75 million, and £1,360 in various currencies, alongside 14 properties valued at €6.63 million and six vehicles worth €660,000. Notably, authorities froze an investment portfolio worth $45 million, representing the largest single asset seizure recorded during this period.

    Permanent Confiscation of Assets

    Following successful prosecutions, confiscation orders transferring ownership of frozen assets to the state totalled €372,695 for domestic cases and £17,993 for foreign requests.

    New EU Regulations Set to Impact the Financial Landscape

    The landscape of anti-money laundering efforts is set to change further with new European Union regulations coming into effect in 2027. These regulations will extend compliance requirements to cryptocurrency providers, professional football clubs and agents, crowdfunding intermediaries, and investment migration service providers. The EU package aims to strengthen due diligence requirements, beneficial ownership regulations, and will impose a €10,000 cash payment limit across the Union territory.

    A new European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) will be established to oversee the coordination of national agencies, ensuring consistent implementation of these rules.

  • Limassol fire — President Christodoulides Engages US Experts in Limassol Fire Investigation

    Limassol fire — President Christodoulides Engages US Experts in Limassol Fire Investigation

    President Christodoulides met with American experts investigating the deadly Limassol fire, expressing gratitude towards the US government for its prompt assistance.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    • President Christodoulides met with American experts investigating the deadly Limassol fire, expressing gratitude towards the US government for its prompt assistance.

    During the meeting with the team from the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Christodoulides highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing such crises. He acknowledged the US government’s swift response to Cyprus’s request for support, stating, “This constitutes a common challenge.”

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    As the discussions unfolded, the President stressed the escalating nature of fire-related incidents, particularly in southern Europe, which has faced increasing threats from extreme weather conditions. He remarked, “The situation will get worse and worse, which is why we need to be ready, and we are pleased to be working with the American government.”

    Christodoulides also noted the Cypriot government’s proactive approach since he took office, mentioning that they have collaborated with the FBI to tackle various challenges. He emphasised the broad scope of bilateral cooperation, which encompasses politics, economy, trade, security, and more.

    In his remarks, the President assured the ATF team of the Cypriot government’s readiness to heed their expert advice and findings. This commitment to learning from the investigation underscores a proactive stance toward future challenges and the importance of utilising expert insights.

    The American experts reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting the effective collaboration with Cypriot authorities. They expressed optimism that their ongoing investigation would provide valuable insights into the causes of the fire, enabling better preparedness for potential future incidents.