Category: Cyprus News Agency

Former President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, asked for the immediate appointment of an independent criminal investigator and prosecutor “with a strong personality and recognized prestige” to probe allegations of corruption and complete their work within a reasonable timeframe. as soon as possible.

Speaking during a press conference, on Tuesday, in Nicosia Anastasiades refuted for an hour and a half the allegations contained in the detailed announcement of the Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC) issued on 16 June, over its findings into the investigation of the allegations in the book ‘Mafia State.’ The report said that Nicos Anastasiades and other officials, individuals and legal entities, may be potentially criminally liable of corruption, while also stressing the principle of the presumption of innocence.

Anastasiades argued that “people’s courts” were set up, in violation of the presumption of innocence. The former President, spoke of “intensification of toxicity, character assassination, and defamation”, despite that “the defamatory claims against me contained in the book were dismissed as false or unfounded or were not accepted,” by the Authority.

He also stated that he does not attribute bad faith to the Inspectors or the members of the Anti-Corruption Authority, but “I attribute to them a lack of the required strong will to resist populism.”

Furthermore, when asked to engage in self-criticism for any responsibilities he may have for Cyprus’ depiction as a corrupted state, he referred to the role of “internet users, TikTokers, or those who invent fictions” saying that their contribution in the weakening of institutions should be probed.

Analyzing the charges against him, the former President emphasized that on several occasions the Inspectors did not present the claims to him and did not hear his own positions on the cases.

The probe of the IAAC is based on the book “Mafia State” written by journalist Makarios Droushiotis, who in the past worked as advisor to former President Nicos Anastasiades. Earlier, the members of the Prosecutorial Council of the Law Office announced that they have decided to forward to the Police and to the Council of Ministers IAAC’s report, with a view to promptly initiate a criminal probe into possible offences.

The future of US-Cyprus partnership is as promising as ever, President Nikos Christodoulides, said on Tuesday evening in his address at the reception to mark the 250th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America, in Nicosia.

”Two hundred and fifty years ago, the Declaration of Independence articulated a revolutionary vision whose influence continues to resonate to this day, far beyond the borders of the United States, inspiring democratic movements and generations of leaders and citizens across the world,” President Christodoulides pointed out, noting that ”for Cypriots, these ideals hold particular importance” and ”continue to inspire our commitment to freedom, to democracy and self-determination.”

”This anniversary is also an opportunity to reflect on the enduring, strategic partnership between Cyprus and the United States and the shared values that continue to bring our two countries closer together. A partnership that over the last years has undergone a profound transformation and is today marked by clear purpose and growing confidence,” he added.

”What was once a relationship viewed primarily through a single prism has evolved into a broad strategic partnership, underpinned by shared interests, common values and of course a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and the greater Middle East,” he emphasised.

President Christodoulides also noted that ”the strength of this relationship was further elevated through the inaugural Cyprus-U.S. Strategic Dialogue in October 2024 and is tangible in our daily engagement. Whether in Defence, Security, Energy, Innovation, Education and in so many other fields, the story of our partnership today is one of momentum and of substance,” he said.

”In Defence and Security, our cooperation has reached unprecedented levels, with new frameworks and initiatives significantly deepening our bilateral bonds,” he added.

Notable milestones, the President said, include the first-ever Five-Year Defence Cooperation Roadmap, signed in 2024, and the 2025 Presidential Determination authorising the Republic of Cyprus’ participation in the Foreign Military Sales and Excess Defense Articles programs, “opening a new chapter in our security cooperation”, adding that Cyprus became eligible to nominate candidates to all U.S. Service Academies, with the first Cypriot admitted to the United States Naval Academy earlier this year.

Furthermore, he said that institutional ties have also expanded through the landmark partnership between the George C. Marshall Center and the Cyprus Security and Defence Academy promoting joint research, academic exchanges and professional education.

In Energy and Economy, President Christodoulides noted that ”the presence of leading American companies in our Exclusive Economic Zone and growing business engagement reflect confidence in Cyprus and in the opportunities that lie ahead, and by the end of June we are going to have more positive announcements.” ”This confidence has been further reinforced following my visit to New York, Texas and Silicon Valley last year to promote investment and business collaboration between our two countries,” he added.

He went on to say that ”this visit paved the way for major U.S. investments and partnerships in Cyprus, including initiatives involving companies such as NVIDIA, Plug and Play and with further significant announcements expected in the coming months], in the fields of innovation and advanced technologies, further strengthening our position as a regional hub for technological innovation and high-value investment.”

In Education, the President said that ”an increasing number of young Cypriots are choosing to study in the United States and return home with new perspectives and experiences that further strengthen the bonds between our two countries.”

He also noted that ”this progress is further reinforced by the strong and enduring bipartisan support that Cyprus-U.S. relations enjoy in Washington, reflecting a shared recognition of the value and significance of our partnership and confidence in its future trajectory.” He added that “a recent example of this is the advancement of the Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act in the U.S. Senate, underscoring growing bipartisan recognition of the Eastern Mediterranean’s role in advancing regional connectivity, energy security and stability.”

He added that, perhaps the most important dimension of the two countries’ partnership is the growing network of human connections between the two peoples, “because ultimately strong partnerships are built by people,” the President emphasised. ”And as these bridges deepen, we also remain firmly committed to joining the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, in order to make travel easier, exchanges deeper and connections stronger – across borders, institutions and generations,” he added.

He further pointed out that ”Cyprus and the United States have stood side by side in moments of crisis and challenge. These moments have demonstrated the strength of our partnership and the depth of the trust that underpins it.”

”They have also highlighted Cyprus’ role as a stable democracy, a reliable and predictable partner and a pillar of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Greater Middle East,” the President said.

”That spirit of trust and cooperation has also shaped our broader vision for transatlantic relations. Cyprus has long believed in the importance of a strong and forward-looking partnership between Europe and the United States,” he pointed out, noting that ”this same conviction guided Cyprus during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, where strengthening EU-U.S. relations was among our key priorities, and the successful conclusion of the EU-U.S. trade agreement stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when partners work together in pursuit of common goals and shared prosperity.”

Referring to the values of freedom, self-determination and democracy that inspired the US Declaration of Independence, President Christodoulides recalled that ”these ideals can never be taken for granted,” adding that ”for Cyprus, this is deeply personal.”

”As a country that continues to live with the consequences of invasion and occupation, we know all too well the profound importance of sovereignty, territorial integrity and respect for international law,” he emphasised. ”We know all too well the importance of liberty and security, and of creating the conditions under which all citizens can live together in peace and prosperity,” he added.

President Christodoulides went on to say that ”for Cyprus, these principles are inextricably linked to our enduring efforts to reunify our country and achieve a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem, in accordance with international law and the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions and of course the EU Law, values and principles.”

In this context, he underlined ”how much we value the steadfast support of the United States and its longstanding commitment to a future in which all Cypriots can live together in peace, security and prosperity in a reunited country.”

”Tonight, we can take pride in all that we have achieved together. The future of our partnership is as promising as ever, and I am confident that the ties between our countries and our peoples will continue to deepen in the years ahead,” the President said.

He also paid special tribute to Ambassador Julie Davis ”for her outstanding service and invaluable contribution to the remarkable progress of our bilateral relations. Her dedication, commitment and friendship have left a lasting mark on this partnership, and for that, we are deeply grateful,” he noted, also thanking Daniel Mangis ”for his tireless efforts, his commitment to further strengthening our ties and for his gracious hospitality this evening.”

On his part, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Daniel E. Mangis, said that the American journey ”has never been simple. It has been tested by war, strengthened by sacrifice, corrected by conscience, and renewed by every generation.”

He further pointed out that ”for two and a half centuries, the central premise has endured: that free people can shape their own future through democracy. It is especially meaningful to celebrate that premise here in Cyprus – an island of ancient history and modern ambition, whose people understand resilience, sovereignty, and the responsibility of building peace in a difficult neighborhood,” he noted.

”When we celebrate the Fourth of July, we commemorate that specific date in 1776 in the city of Philadelphia when fifty-six men put their names to a single sheet of parchment that became known around the world as the Declaration of Independence,” Mangis said.

”With it, as President Trump has observed, ‘America began the greatest political journey in human history.’ They declared, as a self-evident truth, that all people are endowed with certain unalienable rights – among them, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” he added.

”That history is an inheritance and responsibility. Across two and a half centuries, Americans have renewed the promise of our founding through conflict and recovery, expansion and reform, triumph, and moments that demanded humility,” Mangis noted.

He went on to say that ”the 250th anniversary of the United States is not simply a national birthday party. It is, as President Trump has described it, a launchpad for the future. Under his leadership, we are forging new partnerships, championing innovation, and defining a new era of diplomacy,” he emphasised.

”From the Marshall Plan to the Camp David Accords to the Abraham Accords, American diplomacy has advanced peace through strength – and it continues to do so here in Cyprus,” he added.

”As Secretary Rubio has said: “Each generation brought America closer to the principles of its founding.” That generational diplomatic work is what we aim to do in this Embassy alongside our Cypriot partners,” U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires said.

This anniversary, he said, “is also a moment to take stock of what we are building here in Cyprus”. “Over the past year, we have deepened cooperation in defense, law enforcement, education, energy, and commerce. That work has mattered at critical moments,” he added.

Mangis recalled that ”when hostilities in the region threatened civilian safety, the U.S. Navy was there offshore of Cyprus to provide protection against aerial threats in coordination with Cyprus and other partners.” ”Let no one doubt America’s commitment to security in the Eastern Mediterranean,” he noted.

Mangis went on to say that ”after last year’s devastating wildfires, the U.S. government’s elite national fire response team came to Cyprus to help identify the cause of the fire, share our hard-earned expertise, and help with preparations for this year’s fire season.”

”Our law-enforcement cooperation continues to advance the rule of law, combat illicit financial flows, and help ensure that this island is not a venue for those who would undermine the international order,” he said, adding that ”our university partnerships are bringing together Cypriot and American scholars, researchers, and students in exchanges that change the trajectory of our relationship.”

”Working closely with our friends in the American Chamber of Commerce, we are helping turn growing American investor interest in Cyprus into lasting commercial ties,” Mangis said.

”We are especially proud to see the long-hoped-for realization of Cyprus’s offshore natural gas reserves moving toward production,” he said, pointing out that ”energy security is national security, and Cyprus’ emergence as an energy producer will strengthen both this country and the wider region.”

Referring to the Cyprus Issue, Mangis noted that ”the United States position is clear and unwavering: we support a Cypriot-led, UN-facilitated comprehensive settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots.”

”We believe that reunification would benefit everyone on this island, as well as the wider region. We welcome the work of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus and encourage all parties to engage constructively in settlement talks and take meaningful steps to build trust,” the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires said.

”We also emphasize the importance of avoiding provocative unilateral actions that increase tensions on the island and hinder efforts to resume settlement talks in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” he noted.

”The founding ideals we celebrate tonight – liberty, self-determination, and the dignity of every person – are ideals that belong to all Cypriots. A reunified Cyprus, living in peace and prosperity, is a goal the United States continues to support,” he said.

”America remains a trusted and dynamic partner, ready to lead into the next 250 years. And Cyprus remains one of the partners we are most proud to stand beside,” he concluded.

FOR THE PERIOD FROM 0600 23/06/2026 UNTIL 0600 24/06/2026

Atmospheric pressure at the time of issue: 1007hPa (hectopascal)

Seasonal low pressure is affecting the area. The weather will be mainly fine.

Visibility: Good

Sea surface temperature: 25°C

Warnings: NIL

The European Commission published a new Recommendation on business transfers. Facilitating the transfer of ownership of small and medium enterprises (SME) responds to a pressing demographic challenge: a growing number of small business owners across the EU are approaching retirement without a designated successor. This has the potential to impact millions of companies over the next decade. Where a transfer fails, jobs, know-how and economic value may be lost. Furthermore, in the absence of European buyers, strategic European businesses may increasingly be acquired by foreign competitors and investors.

The Recommendation builds on the 1994 Recommendation on business transfers. While maintaining many of its core principles, the updated Recommendation places greater emphasis on awareness-raising, legal and tax measures, digital matchmaking platforms for buyers and sellers, and coordinated EU-level cooperation to preserve business continuity and jobs within the EU. For example, it encourages Member States to reduce administrative, legal and tax barriers to cross-border business transfers, helping businesses make full use of the opportunities offered by the Single Market. It also recommends developing dedicated financing and training programmes to broaden the pool of potential successors and entrepreneurs, including women and other under-represented groups in entrepreneurship.

This new guidance is already in today’s agenda of the meeting of the SME Envoys Network with EU Member States and SME associations.

(For more information: Siobhan McGarry – Tel.: +32 2 296 47 98; Rya Perincek – Tel.: +32 2 299 49 03)

Commission funds first Regional Cable Hubs and launches pound 40 million call for cable repair capacity

The European Commission will grant pound 5.8 million to establish the first two Regional Cable Hubs, in the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. It is also launching today a pound 40 million call to increase European capacity to repair submarine communication cables. These two actions contribute to the delivery of the EU Action Plan on Cable Security, supporting the security and resilience of Europe’s critical submarine data and energy cables, and enhancing our collective capacity to monitor, detect and respond to threats targeting critical undersea infrastructure.

First Regional Cable Hubs

Receiving pound 2.5 million, a Baltic Sea Regional Hub will reinforce regional surveillance and response mechanisms. The project will strengthen national and cross-border security operations centres, enhance information-sharing platforms, and improve the capacity to detect and prevent threats to critical marine infrastructure in this particularly sensitive area. Finland will coordinate the hub alongside Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Latvia and Sweden.

In the Mediterranean region, a Hub backed by pound 3.3 million in funding will combine shared procedures and decision-making structures with a federated technological platform, enabling near real-time information exchange, anomaly detection, and coordinated incident response across borders. Italy will coordinate the hub alongside Greece, Cyprus and Malta.

The European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC) plays a central role in establishing these hubs across the EU by managing the call for proposals and awarding the grants.

pound 40 million for Mediterranean and Atlantic cable repair

Funded by the Connecting Europe Facility – CEF Digital, the objective of the new pound 40 million call launched today is to ensure a swift and effective response to major submarine cable disruptions in emergency situations. Focused on the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and other sea basins, it funds adaptable modules, which will be strategically positioned to serve these sea basins. The modules can be rapidly installed and deployed by existing repair vessels, at the request of the new Regional Surveillance Hubs or other competent authorities.

This follows a first pilot call worth pound 20 million, launched in spring 2026 to finance repair modules in the Baltic Sea.

Next steps

A new call will open in autumn this year to establish regional cable hubs in sea basins not yet covered, or for other Member States to join the two newly established Regional Cable Hubs. The grant is awarded under a call for proposals managed by the ECCC, with funds under the Digital Europe Programme.

Applicants to the CEF Digital call can submit proposals until 8 October 2026 (17:00 CEST).

Background

Following incidents involving undersea cables in the Baltic region, the Commission issued an EU Action Plan on Cable Security in February 2025. With these first Regional Cable Hubs, Europe is strengthening its capacity to build a near real-time situational picture in a sea basin.

Under the current CEF Digital multiannual Work Programme (2024-2027), a total of pound 533 million is allocated to submarine cable projects, with pound 186 million already awarded to 25 projects. From 2021 to 2024, CEF Digital provided pound 420 million to 51 backbone cable connectivity projects.

Quote(s)

With the first regional cable hubs in the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean, and funding for cable repair capabilities, Europe is moving to enhanced capabilities. We are strengthening our ability to detect threats, act faster and respond together. This is Europe investing in its own security, resilience and sovereignty. The proposals for the two hubs are ambitious and reflect a clear commitment from the Member States involved to ensure greater cooperation in the face of new security realities.

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy

Commission welcomes political agreement on criminal law rules to fight child sexual abuse

The Commission welcomes today’s political agreement with the European Parliament and Council on the Directive updating the criminal law rules on child sexual abuse and sexual exploitation. Worrisome trends like the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated abuse material make today’s agreement even more timely.

This Directive addresses new challenges, improves investigation and prosecution, strengthens prevention and assistance to victims and promotes better coordination in the fight against child sexual abuse. The key points of the new common rules are:

Updated definitions: This includes the first EU-wide definition of non-consensual sexual acts, also extending protection to children who remain silent. There is also a clear exemption from criminalisation for hotlines where victims call for help.

New offences reflecting modern realities: The new rules criminalise the use of technology to generate child sexual abuse images and videos, deepfakes and other material, the livestreaming of child sexual abuse, sexual extortion, and AI systems to produce child sexual abuse material. Protection from grooming is extended to children who have reached the age of sexual consent, in certain situations such as when they are threatened or coerced.

Reinforced rules on prevention: With mandatory criminal records checks for professional and organised voluntary activities requiring direct and regular contact with children, and a reporting obligation for such professionals, when the child is in serious and imminent danger.

Stronger support for victims: To ensure they receive the necessary targeted and age-appropriate support for child victims (healthcare, helplines, referral centres), and right to claim full compensation. The statute of limitations is also extended, allowing victims the time needed to seek justice.

The digital threat of child sexual abuse has evolved significantly over the past years. The current EU rules in this area were agreed in 2011, and had to be adapted to address the revolution in the digital world that took place since. Reports of child sexual abuse online increased from one million in 2010 to more than 23 million in 2025. These reports contained 61.8 million files, including 29.4 million images and 26.3 million videos. Data also show an exponential increase of online solicitation of children (grooming), with the number of reports increasing by more than 30 times in the last 5 years.

This Directive represents a significant achievement. However, it will only be effective if we are able to identify offenders. Today, up to 80% of criminal investigations into child sexual abuse are launched because of reports of images and videos of such abuse from online service providers. It is therefore essential that the co-legislators urgently reach an agreement on rules for such reports that effectively prevent and combat child sexual abuse online.

Next steps

This new Directive must be formally adopted by the European Parliament and the Council. Once adopted, it will amend the existing legislation (Council Framework Decision 2004/68/JHA) and enter into force on the twentieth day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Background

The Commission put forward a proposal to update the criminal law rules on child sexual abuse and sexual exploitation in 2024. These revised rules now expand the definitions of offences and introduce higher penalties and more specific requirements for prevention and assistance to victims. They are complementary to the proposal for a Regulation that the Commission put forward in 2022 – which sets out obligations for internet companies to detect, report and remove child sexual abuse material on their services.

While the Directive reinforces legal certainty through aligned criminal frameworks, the Regulation establishes operational obligations for platforms, creating a dual-layered system to close protection gaps. Even with the new criminal rules agreed, since the Interim Regulation allowing the detection of child sexual abuse online expired on 3 April and there is no long-term framework agreed yet, children are still less protected against sexual abuse. A new legal framework for the identification of child sexual abuse online is urgently needed to fight child sexual abuse.

For more information

Child sexual abuse

Quote(s)

Protecting children from this severe crime of sexual abuse is a core EU objective. This agreement strengthens our commitment to support victims and strengthen prevention of child sexual abuse.

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy

Children deserve protection that keeps pace with the world they live in. This Directive delivers exactly that – modernised rules that confront AI-generated abuse material, deepfakes, and sexual extortion head-on, while ensuring victims receive the support and time they need to seek justice. But defining the crime alone is not enough – we also need enforcement. Up to 80% of investigations into child sexual abuse rely on reports from online service providers – without a robust long-term regulation requiring such reporting, we risk leaving victims in the shadows. We call on co-legislators to act.

Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration

EU launches Connectivity Agenda Platform to strengthen links between Europe and Central Asia through the Black Sea region and the South Caucasus

Today, the European Commission launched the Connectivity Agenda Platform and concluded agreements with international financial institutions expected to mobilise up to pound 2 billion for strategic connectivity investments in the Black Sea region and the South Caucasus.

The Platform was unveiled at a high-level ministerial meeting hosted by Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela, and Commissioner for Sustainable Transport Apostolos Tzitzikostas. The meeting brought together ministers of transport and senior representatives from EU Member States, Armenia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Trkiye, Ukraine and Uzbekistan, alongside representatives of the G7 and international financial institutions, to advance the Cross-regional Connectivity Agenda under the Global Gateway strategy.

The Connectivity Agenda Platform will provide a framework for participating countries, international financial institutions and other stakeholders to coordinate investments and policy action across transport, energy, digital connectivity and trade sectors. To further strengthen the cooperation with the region, the participants also agreed to strengthen the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor’s operational performance. They invited the Commission to assess the corridor’s functioning and propose priority actions to improve its competitiveness.

To support the implementation of the Connectivity Agenda, the Commission has concluded statements of intent with international financial institutions expected to mobilise up to pound 2 billion for investments in transport infrastructure, border crossing points and trade facilitation across the Black Sea region and the South Caucasus. These investments will help improve cross-border connections and facilitate trade along the corridor.

Background

The Cross-regional Connectivity Agenda, presented at the Cross-regional Security and Connectivity Ministerial Meeting in Luxembourg in October 2025, is part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy. It aims to strengthen transport, energy and digital links between the European Union and Central Asia through the South Caucasus and the Black Sea region by coordinating strategic investments and regulatory cooperation.

At the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC) and Connectivity Investors Forum in Tashkent in November 2025, participants highlighted the corridor’s growing strategic importance as a resilient and efficient route between Europe and Central Asia.

For more information

Cross-Regional Security and Connectivity ministerial meeting – October 2025

Global Gateway – European Commission

Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor and Connectivity Investors Forum

Meta Study – Advancing a Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda

Quote(s)

At a time of growing conflict, it is great to see so many countries come together around a shared project. We need reliable trade routes, and the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor has emerged as exactly that. Trade along the route could increase fivefold over the next 15 years. To make this happen, we need to bring our efforts together. Many projects and initiatives are already under way. The Platform will connect them, fill the remaining infrastructure gaps and link the route from end to end.

Marta Kos, Commissioner for Enlargement

The Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor is becoming a vital bridge between Europe and Asia. With these new investment agreements, we are upgrading infrastructure, improving border crossings and helping create a route that is quicker, more reliable and better connected. This is not only about transport. It is about competitiveness, energy security and giving citizens and companies the confidence that trade and mobility can continue even in times of geopolitical pressure.

Jozef Síkela, Commissioner for International Partnerships

Competitive economies depend on strong transport networks and connectivity. By mobilising up to pound 2 billion in strategic investments, we are modernising transport infrastructure, strengthening border crossings and facilitating trade. This will unlock economic opportunities for Europe and its partners in Central Asia, the South Caucasus and the Black Sea region, boost resilience and deliver tangible benefits for businesses and citizens alike.

Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism

European Research Council awards pound 838 million to 319 top scientists to deliver groundbreaking discoveries

The European Research Council (ERC) has unveiled the winners of its 2025 Advanced Grants, awarding pound 838 million to 319 leading researchers across Europe. These prestigious grants empower senior scientists to pursue high-risk, high-reward research with the potential to deliver groundbreaking discoveries.

Funded under the EU’s multi-billion research programme Horizon Europe, the grants support ambitious and curiosity-driven projects spanning diverse fields, from medicine and neuroscience to mathematics and quantum physics.

The new grantees’ work will cover a wide range of subjects, such as vulnerability to drug addiction, women’s fertility and health, and stuttering. Other fields of research include the development of new mathematical and algorithmic tools to tackle the growing complexity of large-scale networks, from transport systems to the internet, as well as magnets and quantum materials.

The grantees will conduct their research at universities and research centres in 24 EU Member States and associated countries. The winners represent 30+ nationalities, including 52 Germans, 45 Britons, and 29 Italians.

This year’s competition saw a 31% surge in applications, with 3,329 proposals submitted, with 9.6% selected for funding. The projects are expected to create over 3,000 new jobs within the grantees’ research teams.

‘Choose Europe’ initiative attracting global talent

As part of the ‘Choose Europe for Science’ initiative-designed to attract and retain top researchers in Europe-the ERC now offers relocating scientists up to pound 2 million extra to establish new labs or research teams in Europe.

This year, 13 researchers based outside Europe (4% of winners) secured funding – nine from the United States, two from Australia and two from Canada – up from four (1.4% of successful applicants) last year. Seven of these scientists took advantage of the additional relocation funding.

Applications from researchers based outside of Europe also tripled, rising from 44 in 2024 to 164 in 2025, demonstrating growing global interest in Europe as a hub for cutting-edge research.

Next steps

The newly selected grantees will now begin their five-year research projects.

The next Advanced Grants 2026 scheme is open with the deadline for applications set for 27 August 2026.

Background

The ERC, set up by the European Union in 2007, is the premier European funding organisation for excellent frontier research. It offers four core grant schemes: Starting Grants, Consolidator Grants, Advanced Grants and Synergy Grants. With its additional Proof of Concept Grant scheme, the ERC helps grantees to bridge the gap between their pioneering research and early phases of its commercialisation. The ERC is led by an independent governing body, the Scientific Council. Its pound 16 billion budget is part of the Horizon Europe programme.

For more information

List of winners

Quote(s)

My congratulations to all the 319 new ERC Advanced Grant winners and a warm welcome to the researchers from Australia, Canada and the United States who have chosen Europe to carry out their research. These projects embody the spirit of scientific exploration that drives progress. The increase in applications from researchers based outside Europe shows that initiatives such as ‘Choose Europe’, aimed at attracting and keeping talent, are helping to reinforce Europe’s appeal to top scientific talent worldwide.

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation

Commissioner Micallef launches 2026 #BeActive campaign and hosts an Implementation Dialogue on the European Week of Sport

Today, as the international Olympic Day is being celebrated, the European Commission launches its 2026 #BeActive campaign. The aim is to motivate people of all ages and backgrounds to pursue a more active lifestyle, underlining the physical, mental and social value of sport and physical activity. Under the theme ‘#BeActive your way’, this year’s campaign stresses that every movement matters for health.

Department of Meteorology

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

Date 23/06/2026

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)

36

24

20

Larnaka Airport

33

22

55

Limassol

30

20

68

Pafos Airport

28

21

78

Frenaros

33

23

47

Prodromos

26

17

45

Polis Pafos

35

21

38

Cyprus recorded a 20.5% increase in the prices of fuels and lubricants for personal transport in May 2026 compared with the same month in 2025, according to data published by Eurostat on Monday.

The increase in Cyprus was very close to the European Union average, which stood at 20.7%. According to Eurostat, fuel and lubricant prices rose on an annual basis in all EU Member States.

The highest increases were recorded in Bulgaria (33.9%), Luxembourg (32.2%), Lithuania (30.8%) and Romania (30.4%). The smallest increase was registered in Hungary at 3.5%, while increases in the remaining countries ranged from 12.7% in Poland to 29.2% in France.

Regarding diesel prices, at EU levelthey increased by 29% in May 2026 compared with May 2025, while petrol prices rose by 16.2%.

On a monthly basis, however, EU consumers saw diesel prices fall by 5.8% compared with April 2026, while petrol prices increased by 0.8%.

In Cyprus, diesel prices declined by 1.5% between April and May 2026. The decrease was smaller than the EU average and significantly lower than the largest declines recorded in Germany (-11.9%), Greece (-8.5%), Estonia (-8.4%) and Ireland (-8.1%).

By contrast, petrol prices in Cyprus increased by 2.1% in May compared with April. This development reflects the broader trend across the EU, where 23 member states recorded monthly increases in petrol prices.

Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, highlighted the progress achieved during the Cyprus Presidency on issues concerning the future of European fisheries, funding for the sector, and preparations for the next phase of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Following the conclusion of the first day of the final Agriculture and Fisheries Council under the Cyprus Presidency, held on Monday in Luxembourg, the Minister noted that discussions focused on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy beyond 2027, fishing opportunities for 2027, and the evaluation of the EU’s existing fisheries regulatory framework.

She stated that, throughout the Cyprus Presidency, efforts were made to support fishers, aquaculture producers and coastal communities, while at the same time strengthening the international dimension of the Common Fisheries Policy.

She underlined that the necessary amendments to the Fishing Opportunities Regulation were adopted, while sustainable fisheries partnership agreements with the Seychelles, Sao Tome and Principe, and the Cook Islands were advanced.

The Minister made special reference to negotiations on the future EU financing framework and support for the fisheries sector during the 2028-2034 period.

She pointed out that progress was achieved during the Cyprus Presidency on key aspects of the future CFP framework, including strengthening the position of fisheries and aquaculture within the next MFF.

She added that steps had been taken to secure dedicated support for fisheries control, data collection and the sustainable development of aquaculture, as well as improved access for the sector to EU support mechanisms.

The Minister also noted that the negotiations foresee a doubling of the ring-fenced allocation for the Common Fisheries Policy to pound 4 billion. She added that, combined with additional safeguards for fisheries control and data collection, these developments could keep the sector’s budget close to its current level during the next programming period.

At the same time, ministers held a first exchange of views on fishing opportunities for 2027 as part of the annual process of setting total allowable catches and quotas.

The Minister stressed that ministers highlighted the need for decisions to be based on the best available scientific advice, while also taking into account the economic viability of the sector and the challenges it faces.

She noted that the Cyprus Presidency is handing over the baton to Ireland after helping lay the foundations for the next phase of European fisheries policy, with the objective of building a more resilient, competitive and future-oriented fisheries sector.

Kadis: More fish stocks are being fished at sustainable levels

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Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, stated that ministers discussions focused on the state of the European fisheries sector, the future of the Common Fisheries Policy, and the future financing framework for fisheries.

The Commissioner noted that, during discussions on the Commission’s annual communication on sustainable fisheries, it was highlighted that significant progress has been made in recent years in the management of fish stocks, with more stocks now being fished at sustainable levels.

However, he stressed that major challenges remain, as a number of fish stocks, particularly in the Mediterranean, continue to face significant pressure, while the situation in the Baltic Sea remains difficult due to environmental factors.

Regarding the evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy Regulation, the Commissioner said that discussions revealed broad support among Member States for maintaining the core objectives and principles established under the 2013 reform.

He noted that the findings of the evaluation are expected to feed into the Commission’s upcoming initiatives for the sector, including the Vision 2040 for Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Ocean Act, and negotiations on the EU’s next long-term budget.

Referring to the future financing framework, the Commissioner said that progress had been made in consultations on the funding rules for fisheries policy under the next EU budget.

He added that a key priority is the completion of the relevant rules and national budgetary plans before the new EU budget enters into force in 2028.

The Commissioner also referred to preparations for the next ‘MedFish4Ever’ Ministerial Declaration, which is expected to be signed in 2027 and will focus on continuing cooperation between the EU and Mediterranean third countries to restore fish stocks in the region.

Concluding his remarks, the Commissioner highlighted the contribution of the Cyprus Presidency to discussions on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy and to negotiations on the next Multiannual Financial Framework.

The National Council, a top advisory body to the President on the handling of the Cyprus issue, convenes on Monday morning, at 10 local time, under the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, to be informed about the latest developments in the Cyprus issue, following the recent visit to Cyprus of UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, María Ángela Holguín.

In statements after a meeting he had with Holguín during her visit to the island, the President had described the weeks until her return to Cyprus as ‘crucial’, expressing hope that there would be a collective approach domestically towards the objective of an expanded (5+1) meeting on the Cyprus issue.

He reiterated his optimism ‘that we will achieve the objective of convening an expanded meeting, which will result in the resumption of negotiations. This major effort continues,’ he added.

The President said that all leaders of parties represented in the House of Representatives, following May’s parliamentary elections, had been invited to the National Council meeting. At the same time, he added, he would also keep informed the leaders of parties that are not represented in Parliament but had previously participated in the National Council.

‘We are at a critical juncture. I want us to move forward collectively. I hope that this objective of unity and collective action can be achieved, and I do not believe that anyone is opposed to the resumption of negotiations on the basis of the agreed framework, apart from certain parties that have clearly stated different positions regarding the desired outcome,’ he added.

‘The coming days and the coming weeks until Ms Holguín’s return to Cyprus are of crucial importance,’ he noted.

After her visit to Cyprus, Holguín had meetings in Turkey and Greece with the Foreign Ministers of the two countries and is expected to return to Cyprus in the coming weeks after holding contacts in Brussels.

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.

In 2025 the Secretary-General hosted two informal meetings on Cyprus, in March in Geneva and in July in New York, while a tripartite meeting with the Cyprus leaders was also held in late September, at the end of the UN General Assembly High Level Week. An informal meeting in broader format that was expected to take place before the end of 2025, is yet to be announced. María Angela Holguín, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is tasked to engage with the parties.

Invest Cyprus and ANIMA Investment Network opened EUROMED DAYS, a high-level regional investment forum that took place in Cyprus from 15 to 17 June 2026

Invest Cyprus said in a press release that the event ”brought together senior public and private sector leaders, international organisations, investment promotion agencies, financial institutions, business leaders, innovation stakeholders and selected media from across Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa and beyond.”

The main conference day took place on Monday, 15 June 2026, in Nicosia, setting the tone for three days of strategic dialogue, cooperation and investment engagement. The forum was hosted by Invest Cyprus and ANIMA Investment Network, in cooperation with WAIPA and WAPPP, with the support of the Euromed Clusters Forward project.

The main conference opened with remarks by Marios Tannousis, CEO of Invest Cyprus, who welcomed participants to Cyprus and highlighted the importance of practical Euro-Mediterranean cooperation in business and investment. Evgenios Evgeniou, Chairman of Invest Cyprus, and Tarak Chérif, President of ANIMA Investment Network, delivered welcome addresses under the theme ‘Cyprus at the Crossroads: A Gateway for Regional Investment and Cooperation’, highlighting Cyprus’ geostrategic position, EU role and contribution to regional investment dialogue.

Among other high-level speakers and panellists, the first day featured Irene Piki, Deputy Minister to the President, who participated in the strategic panel on Europe-MENA economic and partnership roadmaps, and Dr. Nicodemos Damianou, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, who delivered a keynote address on the digital transition.

Commenting on the forum, Evgenios Evgeniou stated that ‘EUROMED DAYS sends a strong message about the role Cyprus can play in shaping a more connected and resilient Euro-Mediterranean investment landscape.” He went on to say that ”as Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, we have a unique opportunity to strengthen economic diplomacy, deepen regional cooperation and position our country as a reliable platform for investment partnerships.’

A proud moment of the first day was the Mediterranean Leaders Awards ceremony, jointly organised by ANIMA Investment Network and Invest Cyprus, celebrating outstanding leaders whose contributions have strengthened dialogue, cooperation and partnership across the Mediterranean.

This year’s awardees were Ziad-Alexandre Hayek, President of WAPPP | World Association of PPP Units and Professionals, Evgenios Evgeniou, Chairman of Invest Cyprus, and Tarek Tawfik, President of BUSINESSMED – Union Méditerranéenne des Confédérations d’Entreprises.

The Financial Wellbeing Index recorded an improvement in 2025. However, a significant share of the population continues to face financial difficulties, while financial stress remains elevated and concerns about retirement are growing.

The findings of a survey conducted by the Financial Wellbeing Institute, carried out by IMR / University of Nicosia and presented at a press conference on Monday, show that the overall Financial Wellbeing Index reached 54.6 points in 2025, marking an increase of approximately four points compared to 2024.

Despite this positive trend, the survey indicates that 38.4% of Cypriots remain in the two lowest categories of financial wellbeing. Specifically, 15.4% are classified as ‘Financially Vulnerable’ and 23% as ‘Financially Struggling’. In contrast, only 33.9% fall within the two highest categories, classified as ‘Financially Secure’ or ‘Financially Prosperous’.

Financial stress remains the weakest dimension of the Index. According to the findings, nearly one in two citizens (49.5%) report that financial issues cause them stress and anxiety, while 45.1% say they struggle to make ends meet.

Analysis of the Index’s individual pillars shows that Financial Resilience is the strongest dimension, scoring 57.4 points, followed by Perceived Financial Security at 53.9 points. By contrast, the Stress and Anxiety pillar remains below the 50-point threshold, recording a score of 48.8.

Concerns about retirement

Particular interest arises from the findings related to retirement preparedness. Nearly half of Cypriots (45.1%) state that they do not believe they will be able to maintain their current standard of living after retirement.

At the same time, citizens estimate on average that the state pension they will receive will amount to 52.3% of their final salary, while the actual replacement rate provided by the Social Insurance Fund is estimated at approximately 42%.

Cost of living remains the biggest threat

The rising cost of living emerged as the most significant financial concern among citizens. A total of 26.1% of respondents identified the increased cost of living as the greatest threat to their financial security, while nearly half (48.8%) ranked it among the three most important financial challenges they face.

Presenting the survey findings, President of the Financial Wellbeing Institute, Dr Panayiotis C. Andreou, noted that financial wellbeing is not solely about income levels, but also about citizens’ ability to make informed decisions, plan for the future and face financial challenges with confidence.

He also highlighted the need for targeted interventions in the areas of financial education, retirement planning and strengthening household financial resilience, noting that the continuous monitoring of such indicators is an important tool for policymaking.