Category: Cyprus News Agency

FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1800 29/06/2026 UNTIL 1800 30/06/2026

Atmospheric pressure at the time of issue: 1008hPa (hectopascal)

Seasonal low pressure is affecting the area. The weather will be mainly fine, but later tonight and during dawn locally increased low cloud coverage is possible.

Visibility: Good

Sea surface temperature: 25°C

Warnings: NIL

AREA PERIOD WIND STATE OF SEA

West Coast

Night West to Northwest 3 to 4, soon Northwest to Northeast 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning West to Northwest 3, gradually 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

Afternoon West to Northwest 3 to 4, locally 4 to 5 Smooth to Slight, locally Slight

South Coast

Night Southwest to Northwest 3, gradually Northwest to Northeast Smooth to Slight

Morning Southeast to Southwest 3, gradually South to Southwest 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

Afternoon Southwest to West 4, locally 4 to 5 Smooth to Slight, locally Slight

East Coast

Night West to Northwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning South to Southwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Afternoon South to Southwest 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

North Coast

Night Southeast to Southwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning Southwest to Northwest 3, gradually 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

Afternoon Southwest to Northwest 3 to 4, locally 4 Smooth to Slight, locally Slight

Time of issue: 1700 Date: 29/06/2026

CNA/ME/MK/2026

Today’s weather and temperatures for Cyprus according to the Department of Meteorology

Date 29/06/2026

Station TEMPERATURE (C) (FROM 20:00 PC of the previous one until the time of the show)

Highest Lowest Humidity at

1200 UTC

Nicosia (Athalassa) 39 24 24

Larnaka Airport 36 23 34

Limassol 34 20 49

Pafos Airport 31 22 77

Frenaros 35 23 48

Prodromos 30 16 31

Polis Pafos 32 22 62

CNA/EA/MK/2026

The Cyprus Presidency concluded its work with Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO), held in Luxembourg Monday.

Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Klea Papaellina and Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Marinos Mousiouttas, speaking at a press conference, referred to the areas of social policy and employment, highlighting as key outcomes the promotion of initiatives to combat poverty, protect children and workers, strengthen social cohesion, and advance important European legislative files.

More specifically, Papaellina stressed that the Presidency placed at the centre of its work the strengthening of the social dimension of the European Union, with the aim of turning European policies into tangible benefits for citizens.

She said that key priorities included combating poverty and social exclusion, promoting social inclusion, ensuring access to essential services and high-quality long-term care, with particular emphasis on children, young people, older persons and persons with disabilities.

She also noted that, during the Cyprus Presidency, initiatives were promoted in the areas of social inclusion, support for persons with disabilities, child well-being and equality, through high-level meetings and other initiatives.

She said the results of the Cyprus Presidency reflect the objective of building a more inclusive European social model, adding that Cyprus is now handing over the baton to Ireland, expressing confidence that this work will continue.

Referring to today’s Council proceedings, she pointed out that Conclusions were approved on preventing and combating cyberviolence against girls, describing the protection of minors in the digital environment as a horizontal priority of the Cyprus Presidency. She added that the European Union must make full use of its existing legislative framework, including the Digital Services Act and the Artificial Intelligence Act, to address risks emerging online.

The Deputy Minister also referred to work on the implementation of the first European strategy to combat poverty. She stressed that, despite the progress achieved, poverty remains one of Europe’s most important social and economic challenges, affecting one in five Europeans and one in four children.

She noted that tackling poverty requires an integrated approach combining employment with access to social services, education, affordable housing and targeted support measures, as well as better outreach to beneficiaries and simpler access to available benefits.

EU competitiveness must go hand in hand with social cohesion, said Labour Minister

—-

For his part, Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Marinos Moushouttas said that, from the beginning of its term, the Cyprus Presidency focused on people and on the need for the European Union to provide citizens with the tools they need to respond to the challenges of the digital and green transitions, labour market developments and demographic challenges.

Referring to employment, the Minister stressed that policies were promoted for a more social, inclusive and competitive Europe, with emphasis on quality jobs, investment in skills and stronger protection for workers.

He said that one of the most important achievements of the Cyprus Presidency was the agreement reached on the revision of the rules coordinating social security systems, after almost ten years of negotiations. The agreement, he said, strengthens cooperation between Member States, offers greater legal certainty and facilitates the lives of millions of citizens who live and work in different EU countries.

Referring to today’s Council proceedings, he noted that ministers agreed on the need to adapt European rules to the new realities of the labour market, such as cross-border telework and the opportunities created by digitalisation.

Moushouttas also said that ministers discussed the 2026 European Semester and the revision of employment and social policy guidelines, underlining that the competitiveness of the European economy must go hand in hand with social cohesion, through investment in people, skills and lifelong learning.

The Minister noted that today’s Council also examined the protection of workers from the effects of climate change, with particular reference to exposure to extreme temperatures, as well as job quality and the gender dimension of quality employment.

He added that, during the Cyprus Presidency, negotiations were concluded on the revision of the Directive on the protection of workers from carcinogens, mutagens and substances toxic to reproduction, while progress was also recorded on the Traineeships file.

At the same time, he said that initiatives were promoted on fair employment, skills development in a changing labour market that takes account of developments in artificial intelligence, and fair labour mobility.

The Minister said that the Cyprus Presidency is handing over the Council Presidency to Ireland having achieved significant progress in critical areas of European employment policy, expressing confidence that this work will continue.

The final EPSCO Council under the Cyprus Presidency concluded Monday with the adoption of Council conclusions on housing, demographic change and policy design. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou described the outcome as a ‘significant milestone’ for Europe’s social agenda.

Speaking after the meeting in Luxembourg, Ioannou opened by thanking European Commission Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu, Commissioner Dan Jørgensen, his fellow ministers, and the Cyprus Presidency teams in Nicosia and Brussels, saying: ‘Our accomplishments were built on close cooperation, mutual trust and a shared commitment to delivering tangible results for European citizens.’

The Minister stressed that from the outset, the Presidency had set ‘a clear political objective to place housing firmly at the centre of the European social and political agenda, because housing is ultimately about people.’

He added: ‘It is about whether young people can afford to build their future, whether families can remain in the communities they call home, whether workers can move to where opportunities exist, and whether Europeans continue to believe that prosperity and opportunity remain within their reach.’

Ioannou described access to adequate and affordable housing as ‘one of Europe’s defining social, economic and demographic challenges,’ noting that it ‘affects competitiveness, labour mobility, demographic resilience and social cohesion.’ ‘If Europe is to remain strong and competitive,’ he said, ‘it must also ensure that people can afford to live where they study, work and build their lives.’

Recapping the Presidency’s six-month work plan, the Minister recalled that ‘in February, we convened the first informal video conference of Ministers responsible for housing, launching a European dialogue on the future of the European affordable housing plan,’ followed in March by a ministerial launch within the EPSCO framework.

In May, he said, ‘we hosted in Nicosia the informal ministerial meeting entitled ‘Unlocking Housing: Prudential Simplification, Innovation and Mobilising Investments,” where ministers ‘explored practical ways to increase the supply of affordable and sustainable housing by promoting innovation, accelerating delivery and mobilising both public and private investment.’

On today’s conclusions, Ioannou said they ‘send a clear political message: housing can no longer be addressed as a stand-alone policy,’ but ‘must respond to demographic change, labour market realities, social inclusion and Europe’s long-term competitiveness.’

He added that ‘for the first time, Member States have collectively recognised that addressing the housing crisis requires a comprehensive European approach, one that supports young people, families, students, older people and middle-income households, while increasing housing supply, mobilising investment and making better use of existing housing stock.’

The Minister also addressed the day’s exchange on housing security for students and middle-income households, noting that ‘housing insecurity is no longer limited to the most vulnerable’ but is ‘affecting students, young professionals, workers and middle-income families across the Union, particularly in urban areas, university cities and regions experiencing significant tourist pressures.’

‘This reinforces an important point,’ he said: ‘affordable housing is not only a social policy objective, it is also an economic imperative, a driver of competitiveness and sustainable growth, and an investment in Europe’s collective future.’

Reflecting on the Presidency as a whole, Ioannou said he was ‘proud that we have not only kept housing high on the European agenda, but have also helped reshape the conversation around it,’ adding: ‘We have built political momentum, forged broad consensus and laid the foundations for sustained European action.’

He voiced confidence that ‘the incoming Irish Presidency will build on this momentum and take this work forward,’ stressing that ‘our work does not end today’ and that the task ahead is ‘to translate this shared commitment into concrete policies and meaningful results that improve access to affordable housing for Europeans.’

‘Because housing is not simply about buildings,’ he concluded, ‘it is about people, it is about dignity, and it is about ensuring that every European has the opportunity to build a secure future.’

Speaking in his capacity as Minister also responsible for civil protection, Ioannou noted that the Council took note of the progress report on the proposal for a regulation on the Union Civil Protection Mechanism and the Union’s support for health emergency preparedness and response, adding that ‘the progress achieved over the past six months provides a solid foundation for the next phase of discussions’ under the incoming Irish Presidency.

The process which is underway as regards the Cyprus issue has not frozen and we hope to have the result we expect, which is none other than the resumption of talks on the Cyprus issue, said the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, on Monday afternoon, in statements to journalists, upon his arrival at a ceremony for renaming Argyroupoleos Avenue, in Strovolos, to Dimitris Christofias Avenue.

Asked whether the delay in the schedule of the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General, Maria Angela Holguin, means that the process on the Cyprus issue has been frozen until she completes her contacts, the President of the Republic responded in the negative, adding that “the only thing that is certain is that the effort is not frozen, the effort continues.”

‘Ms. Holguin will go on July 13 (to Brussels), the NATO Summit will also take place, all processes are in full swing, with the aim of convening an expanded conference, during which the resumption of talks will be announced,’ he pointed out. ‘So, nothing has been frozen, this great effort continues, we support this great effort of the Secretary-General and we hope that there will be a response from everyone,’ he added.

At the same time, President Christodoulides stressed that ‘we are at a very critical juncture, we are focusing, we have constant contacts both in Cyprus and in New York, and at EU level, with one and only goal, to have a positive result.’

At the same time, he recalled that ‘this mobility began through our own efforts and the more active involvement of the EU with the Conclusions of April 2024 and the appointment of a personal envoy’.

‘We had said from the beginning that our goal was to link potential developments in Euro-Turkish relations, as Turkey considers progress on these issues as a strategic goal, with the Cyprus issue. There is progress in this direction, we hope to have the result we expect, which is nothing other than the resumption of talks’, he concluded.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

After informal meetings in 2025, followed by a hiatus of several months, deliberations are underway for a new meeting in broader format to be held, as the term of the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres nears its end. María Angela Holguín, Guterres’ Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is tasked to engage with the parties.

Your Excellency European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Mr. Costas Kadis,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening,

I am honored to join you this evening on behalf of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, who sends his warm regards and sincere appreciation to such an esteemed gathering of partners and leaders of our maritime community in Limassol-a city that truly lives and breathes shipping.

Allow me also to thank Financial Media Way for organizing this important symposium, and for fostering a dialogue that reflects both the opportunities before us and the challenges we must collectively address.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Shipping has always been more than an industry for Cyprus. It is a driver of economic growth, a pillar of stability, and above all, a bridge for connecting economies, societies and continents.

Yet today, this bridge is being tested.

We are navigating a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade patterns and increasing complexity across global supply chains. Recent developments, including tensions in the wider Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz, serve as a reminder of the fragility of global maritime trade routes and the importance of safeguarding stability at sea and freedom of navigation. We are closely monitoring these developments and remain cautiously optimistic that ongoing challenges will be addressed through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.

At the same time, our foremost priority remains the safety and welfare of seafarers, who continue to serve at the frontline of global trade under increasingly demanding conditions.

Meanwhile, the sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by decarbonization, digitalization, and evolving investment dynamics.

This is not a period of temporary disruption. It is a turning point for global shipping. And in turning points, leadership is what matters.

Cyprus has consistently demonstrated credibility, resilience and strategic vision, translating these qualities into meaningful influence within the international maritime community. We are not merely adapting to change; we are helping to shape it.

At the same time, we continue to work closely, with our partners, building on a longstanding maritime tradition and a shared commitment to common principles and values. Through our cooperation, we aim to strengthen the competitiveness, resilience and sustainability of European and international shipping.

One of our key priorities is to further strengthen the competitiveness of the Cyprus flag and maritime cluster, reinforcing their reputation as symbols of quality, safety and reliability.

Adding to the above, we have advanced the Ministry’s digital transformation by streamlining procedures and creating a more efficient and service-oriented environment for companies operating in and from Cyprus.

We have also introduced targeted initiatives to support our maritime cluster, enhance competitiveness, promote innovation, encourage education and more sustainable practices.

And as we continue to expand Cyprus’ international footprint, we ensure that our voice remains active and influential in major maritime discussions and decision-making processes, guided by a clear strategic vision, in strengthening our relations with the countries of the Gulf region through enhanced cooperation in maritime affairs.

These initiatives underscore our commitment to building strong international partnerships, promoting regional connectivity, and reinforcing Cyprus’ role as a bridge between regions and maritime markets.

These priorities are closely linked to our broader role at the European level. As the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union approaches its conclusion, we are proud to have placed maritime affairs at the centre of the European agenda. Our focus has been on supporting the maritime workforce, strengthening the sector’s competitiveness, and ensuring that the European Union speaks with a clear and unified voice in international maritime fora.

At the same time, we are placing greater emphasis on the protection of our oceans and the sustainable development of the blue economy, recognizing that the future of shipping is inseparable from the future of our seas and oceans.

Ensuring clean, safe and sustainable oceans is not only an environmental responsibility, it is a strategic priority for the long term resilience and prosperity of our sector.

We also recognise the critical importance of investment. The transition to a greener and more technologically advanced fleet, the development of alternative fuels, and the modernization of infrastructure will require strong partnerships, sustained commitment and long-term visions.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Allow me to conclude with a simple thought.

Shipping has always been a sector that connects. And in an increasingly fragmented world, the ability to connect is more important than ever.

For Cyprus, shipping is not only a source of economic strength, it is also a source of confidence and as no country can navigate today’s complexity alone, no company can meet tomorrow’s challenges in isolation.

The way forward lies in stronger cooperation between governments and industry, closer alignment between shipping and financial markets, and shared investment in innovation, sustainability, and the human element.

Because at the heart of shipping are not only vessels and cargoes, but our most valuable asset: our people.

Thank you.

The renovation of the mosque in the community of Agios Thomas, in the district of Limassol, has been completed, Sotos Ktoris, co-chair of the bicommunal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage posted on FB.

He said that it is a moderate building, built with local materials, harmoniously integrated into the natural and residential environment of the community.

“A piece in the mosaic of the cultural heritage of Cyprus, which we must preserve for future generations,” he says.

The project was funded by the European Union and implemented by the UNDP.

CNA/KCH/AGK/2026

Possible easing of measures imposed over foot-and-mouth disease, based on requests by livestock farming organisations and the epidemiological picture, is expected to be included in a new decree, President of the Pancyprian Veterinary Association and member of the epidemiological team Demetris Epaminondas told CNA on Saturday.

Epaminondas said a regular weekly meeting with agricultural organisations was held on Friday, during which requests by livestock farming organisations for an easing of measures were discussed, taking into account the epidemiological situation.

He said the issues raised would be finalised next week, so that a new decree could “most probably” be issued within the same week or, if that is not possible, the following week.

Epaminondas noted that he preferred not to go into details until the Veterinary Services complete their examination of the specific measures and decide which of the issues discussed will be included in the decree.

At the same time, he said nationwide surveillance sampling for foot-and-mouth disease has begun.

According to Epaminondas, the first results, concerning Limassol and Nicosia, were negative, while the remaining results from the other districts are still pending, with the samples already sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Asked about the factors affecting the survival and transmission of the virus, Epaminondas said high temperatures and ultraviolet radiation at this time of year do not favour its survival, reducing the chances of transmission.

Thousands of animals, including cattle and sheep, were affected in several livestock units initially in Larnaca and then in Nicosia district, following a foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, first reported on February 20. FMD spread to Limassol in May. This followed an FMD outbreak in the island’s Turkish-occupied areas last December. Authorities proceed with a nationwide vaccination campaign of animals to contain the virus, while EU rules require all animals in the infected areas to be culled, bringing about a series of repercussions in livestock farming and other agricultural economic activities. Halloumi, Cyprus’ top agricultural export product, has been spared. Experts reiterate that FMD is not dangerous to humans.

No Cyprus nationals have requested assistance as of now, following the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson told the Cyprus News Agency. He said that MFA is closely monitoring the situation.

Theodoros Gotsis told CNA that “no issues with Cypriot citizens have been reported so far”, adding that the consular authorities are monitoring the development of this humanitarian tragedy.

From the very beginning the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed readiness to support humanitarian efforts in Venezuela, via EU mechanisms.

FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1200 27/06/2026 UNTIL 1200 28/06/2026

Atmospheric pressure at the time of issue: 1008hPa (hectopascal)

Seasonal low pressure is affecting the area. The weather will be mainly fine but tonight and early morning increased low cloud, local mist and fog patches are expected.

Visibility: Good, but moderate to poor in mist and very poor in fog

Sea surface temperature: 25°C

Warnings: NIL

AREA PERIOD WIND STATE OF SEA

West Coast

Afternoon West to Northwest 4, at times offshore 4 to 5 Slight

Night Northwest 3 to 4, gradually North to Northeast 3 Slight, gradually Smooth to Slight

Morning Northeast to Southeast 3, gradually Southwest to Northwest 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

South Coast

Afternoon Southwest 4, at times offshore 4 to 5 Slight

Night Southwest to West 3 to 4, soon Northwest 3 Slight, soon Smooth to Slight

Morning Northeast to Southeast 3, gradually Southwest 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

East Coast

Afternoon South to Southwest 3 to 4, at times offshore 4 Slight

Night Southwest to Northwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning Northeast to Southeast 3, later South to Southwest 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

North Coast

Afternoon West to Northwest 4 Slight

Night Southeast to Southwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning Northwest to Northeast 3, gradually Northwest 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

Time of issue: 1130 Date: 27/06/2026

CNA/ME/AGK/2026