Category: Cyprus News Agency

The 2026 budget of the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organization (CAPO) is slightly in deficit, as presented on Monday to the House Finance Committee.

The budget was presented by the Commissioner for Agricultural Payments, Andreas Kyprianou.

According to Kyprianou, CAPO’s projected revenues for 2026 amount to pound 16,931,900, while expenditure is estimated at pound 16,991,470, resulting in a deficit of pound 59,570, which will be covered by the organisation’s cash reserves.

By comparison, in 2025 revenues in the approved CAPO budget stood at pound 17,042,800, while under the revised budget they amounted to pound 16,356,600. Correspondingly, expenditure was pound 17,354,950 in the approved budget and pound 16,615,000 in the revised budget, with the final deficit for the year reaching pound 258,400.

Of the nearly pound 17 million in this year’s budget, pound 16.6 million derives from the state grant. It is noted that the state grant shows an increase of pound 300,000 compared with 2025, due to a reduction in interest income received by CAPO.

According to the explanatory report submitted by CAPO to the House Finance Committee, its Operating Fund covers staff costs, operating expenses and capital expenditure. Of CAPO’s total budgeted expenditure for 2026 (pound 16,991,470), pound 12,726,800 relates to staff costs, pound 3,249,470 to operating expenses and pound 1,015,200 to capital expenditure.

Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Clea Papaellina, is travelling to Brussels on Monday, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Deputy Ministry, Yiannis Nikolaides, for an official visit, in the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU).

The Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare and the Secretariat of the Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council 2026 said in a press release that the Deputy Minister will address on Tuesday the Working Group for the Establishment of the Child Guarantee in the European Parliament.

It further added that on January 29, Papaellina will participate in the Working Group on Labour and Social Policy Issues of the European Parliament, together with the Ministers of Labour and Social Security and of the Interior. During the session, the Priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU on Labour and Social Policy will be presented and analyzed.

As part of her visit, the Deputy Minister will also have a meeting with the Director General of the General Secretariat of the Council of the EU, responsible for Agriculture, Fisheries, Social Affairs and Health, David Brozina. ‘In parallel, she is expected to exchange views with MEPs on social policy and cooperation issues during the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, with an emphasis on supporting joint initiatives and promoting dossiers concerning social rights and the protection of people in vulnerable situations,’ the press release concluded.

The Minister of Transport, Communications, and Works, Alexis Vafeades, is travelling to Brussels, where on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, he will present the programme and priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU in the field of transport at a special meeting of the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN).

According to a Ministry statement, during his visit, Vafeades will hold a series of meetings, including with the Chair of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee, Eliza Vozemberg Vrionidi.

It is added that during his stay in Brussels, the Minister will attend the inauguration of the artistic decoration of the Justus Lipsius and Europa buildings in the colours of the Cyprus EU Presidency, a work by artist Michalis Anastasiades, the inauguration of the exhibition “Tourism for Europe, Europe for Tourism,” and the exhibition “Nicosia International Airport” by Andros Efstathiou.

Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou underlined on Monday the importance the Cyprus EU Presidency attaches to ‘equipping the European agricultural sector with the tools needed in order to remain sustainable and competitive.’

Speaking ahead of the first Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AgriFish) in Brussels, where she will present to her counterparts the objectives of the work programme of the Cyprus EU Presidency, Panayiotou said ‘we are taking this on at a time of real challenges for Europe, for its citizens, for our farmers. But we are committed to work hard in order to build solutions, in order to find solutions, in order to have positive and tangible outcomes for our farmers.’

According to the Minister, both the programme of the Agricultural Policy Working Party and the Cyprus Presidency’s work programme were presented on Monday. ‘Our target is clear. We want to contribute to a Europe that is more autonomous, more competitive, more resilient, a Europe that is open to the world. And of course, agriculture is at the real heart of this target, of this ambition,’ she said.

The three topics highlighted by Panayiotou and included on Monday’s agenda were the bioeconomy strategy, the amendment of the regulations on organic farming, and the launching of the task force on import controls. ‘All topics are important, all topics contribute to the sustainability of the agricultural sector. It’s going to be a long council, a long first AGRIFISH Council, but I’m confident it will be a productive council. And as I’ve said, we are ready to work together with the Member States, with all institutions, in order to build solutions together,’ she added.

Asked about a possible negative ruling by the Court of Justice of the EU following the European Parliament’s decision to refer the EU-Mercosur Agreement, and whether this referral could hinder the implementation of the Cyprus Presidency’s programme in terms of climate and negotiations, the Minister replied that ‘the Council has decided on the provisional agreement. We have followed the procedures. What was important for the agricultural ministers, what was important and what is important for the primary sector is the safeguard measures and all the topics that we have discussed during the very productive meeting we had on the 7th of January.’

She added that discussions on these key issues would continue and underlined that ‘today’s discussion on the launching of the Task Force on Imports Controls is very important.’ Panayiotou stressed that this development would in no way affect the implementation of the Cyprus Presidency’s programme. ‘The Cypriot Presidency from the beginning, from the first moment, has declared that it will work as an honest mediator with all the institutions. And we will continue to do so regardless of this development’ she said. Moreover, the Minister reiterated that the Council of the EU would continue to advance discussions regardless of developments on the EU-Mercosur Agreement, ‘because regardless of the developments of Mercosur, there are issues that are directly related to the competitiveness, to the viability of the primary sector and especially of the farmers and our farmers. And this is a priority for us.’

Asked about the differing approaches among Member States regarding the proposal for the post-2027 CAP and how the Cyprus EU Presidency intends to respond to these different demands, the Minister said ‘we’re trying to find a balance. Our job is to make sure that we have a strong CAP, a strong CAP that will help the farmers address the challenges that they are facing. We have a long discussion ahead. As we’ve said a lot of times, this is a marathon.’ She concluded by noting that the ultimate goal is ‘a strong CAP and a CAP that helps the farmers to continue producing.’

Matchday 19 of the Cyprus League by Stoiximan brought major developments at the top of the standings, highlighted by the emphatic away victories of Omonia over Aris and of AEK against Paphos FC.

Omonia defeated Aris 5-3 at the Alphamega Stadium on Sunday, moving to 45 points and opening a five-point gap at the top of the table. Also yesterday AEK secured a 2-1 away win over Pafos FC at the Stelios Kyriakides Stadium to remain second on 40 points.

The Matchday wraps up on Monday at 1900 with the fixture between Enosis Neon Paralimni and Olympiacos, which was postponed on Saturday due to the heavy rains.

Results of Matchday 19: APOEL – Omonia Aradippou 1-1, Apollon – Akritas Chlorakas 4-0, Anorthosis – AEL 2-1, Aris – Omonia 3-5, Paphos FC – AEK 1-2, Krasava Ypsonas – Ethnikos Achnas 1-0, ENP – Olympiacos (Sunday, 26 January, 1900)

Standings: Omonia 45, AEK 40, Paphos FC 37 (18 matches), Aris 37, Apollon 36,

APOEL 33 (18 matches), AEL 27, Omonia Aradippou 21, Olympiakos 20 (18 matches), Anorthosis 20, Akritas Chlorakas 19, Krasava Ypsonas 17, Ethnikos Achnas 14, ENP 1 (18 matches).

CYPRUS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY

FORECAST FOR THE SEA AREA OF CYPRUS (B)

FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1200 26/01/2026 UNTIL 1200 27/01/2026

Area covered is 8 kilometers seawards.

Winds are in BEAUFORT scale. Times are local times.

Atmospheric pressure at the time of issue: 1015hPa (hectopascal)

Weak high pressure is temporarily affecting the area. The weather will be partly cloudy with risk of isolated showers tomorrow, mainly over the north and west coasts. Thin dust in suspension.

Visibility: Good, but moderate in showers

Sea surface temperature: 18°C

Warnings: NIL

AREA PERIOD WIND STATE OF SEA

West Coast

Afternoon East to Southeast 4 to 5, at times offshore 5 to 6 Slight to Moderate

Night Southeast 4, later near the coast Northwest to Northeast 3 Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning South to Southwest 3, gradually 4 Slight, gradually Slight to Moderate

South Coast

Afternoon Northeast to East 4, at times locally 4 to 5 Slight to Moderate

Night Northeast to Southeast 3 to 4, later near the coast Northwest 3 Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning Southwest 3, gradually 4 Slight, gradually Slight to Moderate

East Coast

Afternoon Northeast to East 4, at times locally 4 to 5 Slight to Moderate

Night Northeast to Southeast 3 to 4, later near the coast West to Northwest 3 Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning Southwest 3, later offshore 4 Slight

North Coast

Afternoon Northeast to East 4 to 5, at times offshore 5 to 6 Slight to Moderate

Night Northeast to East 3 to 4, later near the coast Southeast to Southwest 3 Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning South to Southwest 3, later offshore 4 Slight, later offshore Slight to Moderate

Time of issue: 1130

Date: 26/01/2026

The Faculty of Engineering of the University of Cyprus (Dean’s Office) is currently accepting applications to fill one (1) vacancy of Special Scientist (Administrative Support) for full-time employment (38 hours per week).

The School of Engineering of UCY is the leading Engineering School in Cyprus according to the international Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 and is ranked among the top 50 Engineering Schools in Europe according to the specialized EngiRank 2024 ranking, with top distinctions in education, research, and innovation. With new state-of-the-art facilities on the University Campus, high-tech laboratory infrastructures, internationally recognized academic programs, and high-quality human capital, the school is currently undergoing significant development and expanding its international presence locally and globally.

Joining the School of Engineering offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact activities, with an emphasis on cutting-edge learning, creative collaboration, research, and innovation.

Required Qualifications / Professional Skills

Bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in fields related to engineering, project management, strategy and innovation, or another relevant field.

At least 1 year of experience in coordinating, writing, submitting, and managing projects, as well as in securing funding, ideally in an academic or research environment and/or in collaboration with public or private organizations.

Strategic thinking and organizational skills, as well as proven experience in activities related to the development of strategic plans, international networking, securing funding, and promoting university objectives.

Research experience in Engineering or a related field will be considered an additional advantage.

Very good knowledge of Greek and English, in writing and speaking.

Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Special Scientist (Administrative Support) will play a key role in the effective operation and dynamic development of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Cyprus, providing systematic organizational, technical, and coordination support in promoting strategically important initiatives, liaising with external partners, and managing tasks arising from the collaboration with the Faculty’s International Advisory Committee and other developmental initiatives of the Faculty, especially in light of the opportunities arising from its relocation to new campus facilities and its transition into a new phase of growth and external engagement.

Among the duties to be undertaken by the Special Scientist (Administrative Support) are:

Supporting the School’s strategic planning.

Supporting the organization and operation of the Faculty’s International Advisory Committee.

Contributing to the promotion of the Faculty’s internationalization through the development of collaborations with universities, research centers, and organizations abroad.

Supporting activities related to the transfer of research knowledge to society, including public authorities, industry, and civil society.

Coordinating and implementing activities, informational seminars, and/or other events related to Strategic Planning.

Monitoring international trends in higher education and research and proposing best practices to enhance the Faculty’s strategic footprint.

Coordinating, writing, and submitting proposals for national, European, and international funding programs; preparing technical and administrative deliverables, progress reports, and final reports in accordance with funding agency requirements; and liaising with Project Officers and partner organizations to ensure smooth project implementation.

Attracting funding from international organizations, funding bodies, and philanthropic foundations; developing collaborations; and participating in workshops, conferences, informational events, and networking activities to promote new partnerships and funding opportunities.

Preparing reports, proposals, and informational material for the strategic initiatives of the Dean’s Office.

Performing any other related duties as assigned.

Terms of Employment

The employment of the Special Scientist (Administrative Support) will be under a 12-month contract with the possibility of renewal for an additional year (subject to the availability of funding). The monthly gross salary will range from pound 1,855.29 to pound 2,994.80, depending on qualifications and experience (from this amount, employee contributions will be deducted, according to the current legislation). The monthly gross salary includes a proportional 13th-month payment.

The Special Scientist (Administrative Support) will work 38 hours per week, with working hours determined by the Head of the Organizational Unit based on operational needs. Working hours will be communicated by the Head of the Organizational Unit during the interview.

Application Submission

Interested candidates are requested to submit the following documents:

A cover letter expressing interest in this position, including the date they are available to start employment.

A full curriculum vitae (CV) in Greek or English.

Copies of academic degrees and transcripts.

A certificate demonstrating very good knowledge of the English language.

The names and contact details of at least two referees from whom references may be requested.

Applications must be submitted via email to fae@ucy.ac.cy no later than 15th February, 2026. For further information, please contact +357 22-894058 or via email at fae@ucy.ac.cy.

Please note that applicants do not need to be Cypriot citizens. However, they must be permanently residing in Cyprus during the period of employment and are requested to ensure this is possible before submitting their application. Submission of an application constitutes acceptance of this requirement.

At least the three most suitable candidates who meet the required qualifications will be invited for an interview before a three-member Committee.

Candidates will be notified by email from the Dean’s Office regarding the outcome of their application.

The filling of the position is subject to the availability of funding.

In accordance with the provisions of the EU General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 (GDPR), the University of Cyprus collects and processes your personal data in compliance with the Regulation.

The University of Cyprus promotes inclusion, diversity, equality, and the elimination of all forms of discrimination, aiming to provide a fair, safe, and supportive environment for the entire university community. Students and staff, across their multiple identities, should feel supported in both professional and personal development. UC strives to create conditions that encourage and respect diversity and ensure dignity, both in the workplace and the broader society.

Moreover, University of Cyprus has adopted specific policies to promote equal opportunities and respect for diversity and is committed to fostering and maintaining a work, educational, and learning environment free from all forms of direct or indirect discrimination.

Atmospheric pressure at the time of issue: 1013hPa (hectopascal)

Weak low pressure is affecting the area. The weather will be partly cloudy with initial risk of isolated showers tomorrow, mainly over the north and west coasts but late afternoon local showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected. Thin dust in suspension.

Visibility: Good, but moderate to poor in showers

Sea surface temperature: 18°C

Warnings: NIL

AREA

PERIOD

WIND

STATE OF SEA

West Coast

Night

Southeast 4, later near the coast Northwest to Northeast 3

Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning

South to Southwest 3, gradually 4

Slight, gradually Slight to Moderate

Afternoon

South to Southwest 4 to 5, at times locally 5 to 6

Slight to Moderate

South Coast

Night

Northeast to Southeast 3 to 4, later near the coast Northwest 3

Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning

Southwest 3, gradually 4

Slight, gradually Slight to Moderate

Afternoon

Southwest 4 to 5, at times locally 5 to 6

Slight to Moderate

East Coast

Night

Northeast to Southeast 3 to 4, later near the coast West to Northwest 3

Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning

Southwest 3, later offshore 4

Slight

Afternoon

Southwest 4, at times offshore 4 to 5

Slight, at times offshore Slight to Moderate

North Coast

Night

Northeast to East 3 to 4, later near the coast Southeast to Southwest 3

Slight to Moderate, later near the coast Slight

Morning

South to Southwest 3, later offshore 4

Slight, later offshore Slight to Moderate

Afternoon

South to Southwest 4, offshore 5

Slight, offshore Slight to Moderate

Time of issue: 1700

Date: 26/01/2026

Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, arrived in Manama, Bahrain, on Sunday morning for a two-day official visit, according to an announcement by the Presidency.

Upon his arrival in Manama, President Christodoulides was welcomed by Bahrain’s Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Commerce.

At midday, President Christodoulides will receive an official welcome at the Royal Palace, from the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The two leaders will hold a private meeting, followed by expanded talks with the participation of the delegations of both countries.

During the visit, which is taking place at the invitation of the King of Bahrain, eight agreements and memoranda of cooperation will be signed in areas such as education, culture, tourism, military cooperation, and search and rescue, according to a statement issued on Saturday by Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis.

While in Bahrain, President Christodoulides is to address the Cyprus-Bahrain Business Forum, visit Bahrain’s sovereign investment fund, and attend the inauguration ceremony of the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Manama.

According to Nicosia, the visit forms part of the Government’s strategy to strengthen and deepen relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the Gulf states, and constitutes ‘a clear reaffirmation of the political will to further upgrade cooperation with Bahrain at political, economic, energy, cultural, and defence levels’.

It is noted that the President is accompanied by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Energy, the Government Spokesperson, the Deputy Minister to the President, the National Security Adviser, the Director of his Diplomatic Office, and senior government officials.

The Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Dr. Maria Panayiotou, will be in Brussels for the first Council of EU Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers under the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which will take place on Monday, in the presence of Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, Health and Animal Welfare, Olivér Várhelyi, and Fisheries and Oceans, Kosta Kadis.

According to a Ministry press release, during the proceedings, Panayiotou will present the programme and key priorities of the Cyprus Presidency in the areas of agriculture and fisheries. Under the main message of the Cyprus Presidency, “An Autonomous Union, Open to the World,” the Minister will refer to the objectives of strengthening the competitiveness, sustainability, and attractiveness of the European agricultural and fisheries sectors.

It is noted that particular emphasis will be placed on the importance of a strong Common Agricultural Policy that ensures fair and stable incomes for farmers, strengthens their position in the food supply chain and contributes to maintaining the European Union’s food security through the production of safe and high-quality food, while at the same time, the Cyprus Presidency will work to highlight the need to adopt effective and immediately applicable measures to prevent and deal with natural disasters and fires.

It is added that within the framework of the Council, Ministers will hold a policy debate on the European Union’s new bioeconomy strategy, with a focus on aspects relating to agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, with a view to the formulation of new Council conclusions, the statement continues, adding that an orientation debate will be held on the European Commission’s proposal to amend the regulation on organic farming, with a view to simplifying the current framework.

It is further stated that during her visit to Brussels, the Minister of Agriculture will make a series of appearances before committees of the European Parliament.

Specifically, on Tuesday, she will appear before the Committee on Fisheries (PECH), on Wednesday before the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRI), and on Thursday before the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), with the aim of presenting the priorities and initiatives of the Cyprus Presidency in the areas of competence of the respective EP committees, as well as to exchange views with EP members on the key challenges and policy priorities in the areas of agriculture, fisheries, the environment, and sustainable development.

The Minister will return to Cyprus on Thursday evening, the press release concludes.