Category: Cyprus News Agency

The Cypriot public administration will be the engine, driving the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Wednesday, expressing his belief that ‘as we responded successfully in 2012, we will do so now too’.

President Christodoulides was addressing a book presentation at the Presidential Palace, in Nicosia.

‘The need for continuous and bold reforms is at the heart of our priorities. Reforms, continuous reforms, the modernisation of institutions, the simplification of procedures, the abolition of structures that act as an impediment, but also the utilisation of levers of economic and social development of our country are a one-way street and – I repeat – are a top priority for our governance’, he pointed out.

The President of the Republic sent the message ‘that we should not view reforms with fear and anxiety, but as a process of evolution, as a process of modernisation that contributes to the reconstruction of our country and its transformation, always for the benefit of society.’

‘The Republic of Cyprus completed 65 years of life this year. Our accession to the European Union 21 years ago, the most important diplomatic success of our country since its founding, was, I believe, the most significant change, the most important and essential change, which acted as a catalyst in the transformation of our country’, he stressed. Referring to the concern of the Turkish Cypriots that the Greek Cypriots will attempt to impose themselves on them in the context of a settlement of the Cyprus problem, he noted that ‘this is not allowed and cannot happen, nor do we have any such desire, but the European Union is the best safeguard for both the resolution of the Cyprus problem, but also for the implementation of a possible solution, responding to any concerns that exist’.

‘Our accession, therefore, to an international and EU environment brought about structural changes in the Cypriot public administration as well. These changes have contributed decisively to the economic and social development of our country, as well as to the sustainability and competitiveness of our state’, he pointed out.

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. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

A Forum on Artificial Intelligence and Democracy, in London – an initiative born from the collaboration of the Hellenic Tech Network and the Board of British Cypriots – seeks to answer the question of whether democratic values can keep pace with technological power.

The forum examines, on the one hand, how democratic values can guide the development of Artificial Intelligence, and on the other, how and to what extent AI can influence democratic processes. It also explores ways to promote and deepen public understanding of AI so that it does not remain a powerful tool accessible only to the few and privileged.

At the first forum, held last week at the House of Commons in the UK, speakers included Professor of Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning at the University of Cambridge Andreas Vlachos; senior advisor at the Tony Blair Institute Yiannis Theodorou; Director of ‘The Democracy Index, Economist Intelligence Unit’ Joan Hoey; Professor of International Conflict Analysis at the University of Warwick Neophytos Loizides; and CEH of the Hellenic Tech Network Louis Loizou.

In his speech, Loizou noted, among other things, that Europe is following a preventive strategy toward artificial intelligence with the AI Act, in contrast to the United States, which he said adopts a ‘lighter-touch’ regulatory approach. The European line does not aim to restrict innovation but to ensure it serves the public interest, avoiding past mistakes, Loizou clarified.

He also stressed that artificial intelligence can enhance thought and creativity-not just convenience, as it is often accused of doing. However, to fully harness this potential, it is essential to address ‘AI illiteracy’ both at the cognitive-technical level and in terms of ethical use, as he put it.

Finally, he emphasised as strongly as possible that technology must incorporate principles of transparency, participation, and justice so that it serves human beings and protects their integrity. ‘Democracy,’ he said, ‘is humanity’s most successful operating system, and Artificial Intelligence must function within this framework.’

The event was hosted by Conservative MP Sir Roger Gale, with the participation of the High Commissioner of Cyprus in London, Dr. Kyriakos Kouros.

Notably, on behalf of the Board of British Cypriots, contributions were made by Doros Partasides and Professor Elias Dinenis.

The forum is planning to travel next to Athens, then to the University of Cyprus in Nicosia, and from there to Brussels and Washington.

Cyprus and Greece join forces in the cross-border “Epikentrosis” project, implemented with the support of the European Regional Development Fund, to strengthen preparedness for responding to and effectively managing natural disasters such as earthquakes.

Speaking during a press conference held on Wednesday at the Fire Service headquarters to mark the official launch of the project, Minister of Justice and Public Order, Marios Hartsiotis, said that by strengthening emergency services, upgrading technology, training, and operational tools, as well as implementing projects such as “Epikentrosis,” we are building an even more resilient and secure state.

According to Hartsiotis, the project is being implemented as part of the 2021-2027 Programme, with the support of the European Regional Development Fund, and aims to adapt to climate change and prevent disaster risks.

As he explained, the “Epikentrosis” project aims to reinforce this effort through targeted actions, including the provision of modern rescue, coordination, and restoration vehicles to ensure rapid and effective mobilization in the event of disasters. At the same time, the provision of specialized rescue equipment will strengthen rescue and risk management operations.

He added that a particularly important element of the project is the implementation of joint training programs focusing on earthquakes, which aim to strengthen staff skills, developing a common operational understanding among partners, and familiarizing them with modern technologies and methods of crisis prevention and management.

He said that these interventions are shaping an updated and common operational framework for dealing with natural disasters, with an emphasis on earthquakes, strengthening the preparedness, resilience, and protection of the country’s communities.

“The government attaches the utmost importance to civil protection. The protection of life, property, and social cohesion is a fundamental responsibility of the state. By strengthening emergency services, upgrading technology, education, and operational tools, and implementing projects such as ‘Epikentrosis’, we are building an even more resilient and secure state. Beyond material resources and know-how, it is important that we strengthen our collective consciousness and ongoing cooperation between agencies, creating a protection network that will withstand time and challenges,” emphasized Hartsiotis.

For his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Interior, Elikkos Elia, said that the ” Epikentrosis” project is a strategic collaboration between Greece and Cyprus that responds to a real and ongoing challenge for both countries, that of managing the risks posed by earthquakes and large-scale natural disasters.

He added that at the same time, the project is investing substantially in education, as three specialized workshops will be implemented on the management of earthquake disasters, applying an educational methodology that promotes the exchange of experiences and know-how, while executives from the Cyprus and Greek Fire Services will initially be trained and then act as trainers for the programmes to be implemented in Cyprus and Crete.

“The launch of this important project coincides with the efforts undertaken by the government of Nikos Christodoulides to upgrade the civil protection sector. The purpose of transforming the Ministry of the Interior into the Ministry of the Interior and Civil Protection and bringing state services under one roof is primarily to improve the organization and optimize the use of available human and material resources so that we can strengthen our response to disaster situations. On behalf of the Minister, I would like to assure you that we will work diligently to fully utilize the project’s potential and achieve all the expected results,” concluded Elia.

In his address, the Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Service, Nikos Logginos, said that the project is being implemented within the framework of the European programme Interreg VI-A Greece-Cyprus 2021-2027, with co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund and national resources of Cyprus and Greece.

As he stated, the pound 2.5 million in funding will be used to purchase special high-performance rescue vehicles, supply specialized equipment (search, rescue, and communications), training to improve the knowledge and skills of Fire Service members, and conducting preparedness exercises through a series of joint training programs between partners, combining theoretical training and practical field exercises.

He added that in the near future, with the implementation of the “Epikentrosis” project, there are plans to substantially strengthen all districts with specialized equipment for dealing with seismic events, as well as the creation of local rapid response teams, so that simultaneous and coordinated operations are possible in the event of massive catastrophic consequences of an earthquake, a development of key importance, as it strengthens the country’s operational resilience, reduces response time, and significantly increases the chances of saving human lives.

President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, is visiting Lebanon today. The focus of his visit will be issues of energy cooperation and broader regional aspects. On Tuesday, the President stated that he will make announcements on ‘two important issues’ from Beirut.

In a written statement, Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, says that this is a visit ‘of particular significance, at a time when cooperation, mutual trust, and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean acquire even greater importance.’

According to Letymbiotis, President Christodoulides’ presence in Beirut is part of the ongoing effort of the Republic of Cyprus to deepen its relations with the countries of the region, and Lebanon specifically, an important partner ‘with whom we share historically friendly ties, common challenges, and strategic interests,’ as he stated.

Within the framework of this continuous deepening of relations and strengthening of cooperation with Lebanon, Letymbiotis said that during the President’s stay in Beirut there will be specific announcements concerning issues of energy cooperation and broader regional aspects, ‘confirming the steady orientation of the Republic of Cyprus toward enhancing security and stability in the region.’

The President is expected to arrive in Beirut at 11 a.m., where he will be received by Lebanon’s Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rasamny.

President Christodoulides will then proceed to the Presidential Palace, where he will have a private meeting with the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun. Wider-format discussions will follow, after which the two leaders will make statements at 12:30 pm.

President Christodoulides is expected to attend an official luncheon and depart from the Lebanese Presidential Palace at 2 p.m.

‘The visit is a continuation of a particularly intense and productive period of contacts between the two countries, reflecting the upgraded dynamics of our bilateral relations. In this context, there will be an exchange of views on regional developments, on issues of security and stability, as well as on the progress of cooperation in areas of mutual interest,’ the Government Spokesperson notes in his written statement.

He also points out that Cyprus attaches consistent importance to strengthening Lebanon’s resilience and stability, a key factor for the entire region.

At the same time, according to Letymbiotis, the visit offers an opportunity for discussion on further strengthening cooperation within the framework of EU-Lebanon relations, particularly ahead of the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union. ‘As the EU Member State closest to Lebanon, Cyprus remains firmly oriented toward reinforcing the EU-Lebanon partnership,’ he said.

The President of the Republic will be accompanied in Lebanon by the Government Spokesperson, the Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, National Security Advisor Tasos Tzionis, the Director of the President’s Diplomatic Office Doros Venezis, and other officials.

Commissioner Kadis visits Croatia to discuss the future of the fisheries sector and strengthen regional cooperation

Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis starts a three-day official visit to Croatia today, focusing on sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and EU funding projects. The visit, part of the European Commission’s efforts to bolster regional cooperation, include high-level engagements with Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries David Vlajcic. The Commissioner will also meet with industry leaders, including representatives from the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, non-governmental organisations and aquaculture clusters, to discuss challenges and opportunities in the sector. Visiting the Brižine Fishing Port, funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, will also be part of the Commissioner’s agenda, underscoring the EU’s support for modernising coastal infrastructure. The visit will conclude with an address to the Croatian Parliament, highlighting the importance of aligning national priorities with EU strategies.

(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: + 32 229-96302; Anna Wartberger – Tel: +32 2 28 20 54)

Commission approved the disbursement of more than pound 4 billion to four Member States under NextGenerationEU, supporting economic growth and competitiveness

Today, the European Commission has approved the disbursement of a total of pound 4.1 billion to four EU Member States – Greece, Portugal, Slovenia and Austria – under the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the centrepiece of NextGeneration EU. Greece will receive pound 2.1 billion, to support critical areas such as healthcare, education, public administration, taxation, renewable energy and sustainable biomethane. Portugal will receive pound 1.06 billion which will finance healthcare, housing, forest fire management, renewable energy, and measures to boost the business environment. Austria will be granted pound 515.5 million to improve working conditions in the long-term care system and develop residential photovoltaic systems as well as a repair bonus programme for electronic devices. Lastly, Slovenia will receive pound 439.7 million, which will support long-term care, energy efficiency, railway infrastructure and digital education and science.

You can find more information online in our press release.

(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: + 32 229-96302; Anna Wartberger – Tel: +32 2 28 20 54; Isabel Arriaga e Cunha +32 229-52117)

Commission requests Shein to provide information on the sale of illegal products under the Digital Services Act

Today, the European Commission has sent a request for information to Shein under the Digital Services Act (DSA), following preliminary indications that illegal goods, particularly child-like sex dolls and weapons, are being offered on the marketplace. Following the sale of illegal products in France and several public reports, the Commission suspects that Shein’s system may pose a systemic risk for consumers across the entire European Union.

The Commission is now formally asking the platform to provide detailed information and internal documents on how it ensures that minors are not exposed to age-inappropriate content, in particular through age assurance measures, as well as how it prevents the circulation of illegal products on its platform. The Commission is also inquiring about the effectiveness of such mitigation measures adopted by Shein.

The DSA requires Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs), like Shein, to assess and adequately mitigate systemic risks, such as risks to minors or the spread of illegal content, that may arise from their systems, as well as from the design or functioning of their services.

The Commission is actively monitoring compliance by VLOPs, including Shein, with their obligations under the DSA across the European Union, and it stands ready to take action. This is the third RFI that the Commission sent to Shein.

(For more information: Thomas Regnier – Tel.: +32 2 299 10 99; Patricia Poropat – Tel.: +32 2 298 04 85)

Commission welcomes provisional agreement on new rules to improve welfare of dogs and cats

The European Commission welcomes the agreement by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU on the first ever EU legislation on the welfare of dogs and cats, which will significantly improve the way these animals are treated, when bred, sold or adopted in the EU. The new measures will also help to clamp down on the illegal trade into and within the EU. Once adopted and implemented, this legislation will ensure that uniform welfare standards will apply across the EU when it comes to breeding, housing and care of dogs and cats in professional establishments, responsible ownership will be promoted and animal caretakers in breeding, selling establishments or shelters will need to have sufficient competence to look after dogs and cats, among other key provisions.

Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, Oliver Varheyli, said: ‘Today’s agreement marks a turning point for the welfare of dogs and cats across Europe. For the first time, we will have clear, enforceable standards on how these animals are bred, kept and sold in the EU. European citizens want their animals to be better protected and stronger action against both irresponsible breeding and illegal trade as part of organised crime. I welcome this milestone and thank the Council and Parliament for their commitment to building a more humane, transparent and trustworthy system for Europe’s pets.’

The new Regulation must be formally adopted by the Council and European Parliament. The full statement is online as well as a factsheet.

(For more information: Eva Hrncirova-Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73)

Commission launches EU Pollinator Monitoring Scheme to help restore biodiversity

Today, the European Commission published a legislative act setting a EU Pollinator Monitoring Scheme to help Member States reverse the decline of pollinator populations by 2030 – a key target of the Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR).

Pollinators provide crucial ecosystem services on which our economy, health and quality of life depend, including pollinating 80% of our food crops and wild flowering plants. But one in three bee, butterfly and hoverfly species is in decline and one in ten bee and butterfly species is threatened with extinction. Restoring Europe’s degraded nature is therefore urgent to safeguard biodiversity, food security and nature’s resilience.

Reliable, efficient and comparable monitoring is a cornerstone of effective nature restoration. With today’s scheme, the Commission is supporting Member States to ensure that they can monitor pollinator populations efficiently and effectively, while allowing flexibility to adapt to local needs and realities. It provides a standardised, robust and science-based method for monitoring pollinator diversity and populations.

This common framework guarantees that the annual data collected across all national territories is comparable and reliable, providing a clear picture of progress toward the 2030 target. It also minimises administrative burden on national level, allowing national authorities to focus on implementation and restoration actions.

Following the entry into force of the delegated act in 20 days, Member States should implement the EU Pollinator Monitoring Scheme within a year. The Commission will continue to support capacity building for pollinator monitoring in Member States, including by setting up a dedicated helpdesk for national authorities.

You can find more information on the new EU Pollinator Monitoring Scheme online.

(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: +32 2 296 64 83; Maëlys Dreux – Tel.: +32 2 295 46 73)

Speech by President von der Leyen at the EP plenary debate on the EU position on the proposed plan and EU engagement towards a just and lasting peace for Ukraine

‘Check against delivery’

President Metsola,

Minister Bjerre,

Honourable Members,

I want to start this debate not in Geneva but in Ternopil – a city in Western Ukraine nearer to the Polish border than it is to Kyiv. In the early hours of one morning last week, a storm of Russian drones and missiles rained down. The sheer force of the attacks leading to an inferno erupting. In the burning wreckage laid injured victims and more than 30 dead – innocent men, women and children. Children like Amelka. A seven-year-old girl from Poland who was in second grade at the local school. Amelka died in her mother’s arms. Both of them killed in a mindless and callous act of brutality. On behalf of the Commission and all of us in this House today, I want to start by paying my deepest condolences to all those mourning the victims of Ternopil – and right across Ukraine.

Over three and a half years into this war of aggression, this is the daily reality on the ground. And it shows that we can never lose sight of what Ukraine is sacrificing. What Ukraine is fighting for – its security, its freedom, its independence. Because ultimately this is what is at stake in these crucial days for Ukraine and for Europe. Basically, the core and values of the UN Charter. This is why Europe must keep up the pressure on Russia – until there is a just and lasting peace. And I want to be clear from the very outset: Europe will stand with Ukraine and support Ukraine every step of the way.

Honourable Members,

Russia’s playbook has not changed. From the start Russia has always believed that they can outlast Ukraine, Europe and all of its allies. And it is why every time there is serious progress towards negotiations that can bring about a real peace – the violence escalates. We have seen this before. This is a pattern. And the noises from the Kremlin in the last few days say a lot about its real intentions. For them, Ukraine remains a first step in a much bigger game. For Russia, any peace deal is about permanently redrawing maps. It is about returning to great power relations and spheres of influence. But for Ukraine – and for Europe – any peace agreement is about creating a just and lasting peace. Peace that stops this conflict and does not sow the seeds for new future conflicts. And it is about ensuring a strong and sustainable security architecture for our continent. One that is underpinned by a strong Europe, a strong NATO and a strong transatlantic partnership. And that is what we will defend alongside Ukraine and our allies every step of the way.

Honourable Members,

A just and lasting peace. This is what we all want. And this is why Europe supports all efforts to build that peace for Ukraine. A peace that stops the killing. One that avoids setting a dangerous precedent. One that guarantees Ukraine’s security and its sovereign rights in the long term. And that ensures a robust security architecture for Europe. This is why we welcome the efforts led by President Trump. After months of discussions, it is important that the work on an actual text started. Of course, we all know that more effort is needed. But I believe – thanks to the work of Ukraine, the United States and us Europeans over the last few days in Geneva – we now have a starting point. Our united front, our single voice and our shared sense of purpose must continue to guide the work at European level. And I would like to outline some of the core priorities for Europe as we work with Ukraine, the US and the Coalition of the Willing on the way forward.

The first is that any agreement should deliver a just and lasting peace. And it should ensure real security for Ukraine and Europe. As a sovereign nation, there can be no limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces that would leave the country vulnerable to future attack. And this is as much about deterrence as it is about Europe’s security. Because Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security. So Ukraine needs robust, long-term and credible security guarantees as part of a wider package to dissuade and deter any future attacks from Russia. And it is equally clear that any peace agreement needs to ensure that European security is guaranteed for the long-term.

Second priority – upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty. We know that Russia’s mindset has not changed since the days of Yalta. Seeing our continent in terms of spheres of influence. So we need to be clear that there cannot be unilateral carving up of a sovereign European nation. And that borders cannot be changed by force. If today we legitimise and formalise the undermining of borders – we open the doors for more wars tomorrow. And this goes against any sustainable peace that we are striving for.

Sovereignty also means being able to choose your own future. Ukraine has chosen a European destiny. That has already led to partial integration in our Single Market and our defence industrial base. And this is only the start of a journey. Ukraine’s future lies in the European Union. This is not only a matter of destiny. This is a core and essential part of any security guarantee framework. And we will do everything we can, to deliver on it together.

Third priority – securing Ukraine’s financial needs. In the absence of any real intent of Russia to engage in peace talks, it is clear that we need to support Ukraine to defend itself. And that starts by ensuring that they have the necessary financial means. In the last European Council, we committed ourselves to cover the financial needs of Ukraine for 2026 and 2027. On this topic we have presented an options paper. This includes an option on immobilized Russian assets. The next step is that the Commission is ready to present the legal text. To be very clear – I cannot see a scenario in which the European taxpayers alone will pay the bill. And another thing must also be clear – any decision on this needs to be taken in line with the rules of the responsible jurisdictions and will respect European and international law.

The fourth priority – whatever the design of a future peace treaty, it is clear that much of the implementation will come down to the European Union and its NATO partners. Whether on security guarantees, sanctions, financing of Ukraine’s reconstruction, integration of the Single Market, or EU membership. This principle has been accepted. Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. Nothing about Europe without Europe. Nothing about NATO without NATO.

The last priority I would like to focus on is one that cannot be forgotten – and that is the return of each and every Ukrainian child abducted by Russia. There are tens of thousands of boys and girls whose fate is unknown. Trapped by Russia in Russia. We will not forget them. There are thousands of moms and dads who have never stopped hoping and never stopped fighting to bring their children back. And Europe will never give up in helping to make that happen.

Honourable Members,

The days ahead are fraught with danger – first and foremost for the people of Ukraine who continue to face the daily barrage of attacks. Yes, the situation is complex. Yes, the situation is volatile. Yes, the situation is dangerous. But I believe there is also an opportunity here to make real progress. So far, we have seen no signs from Russia of true willingness to end this conflict. So we have to keep up the pressure. And it is our duty to engage with any and all efforts that can bring about a just and lasting peace. We know it will not be easy. But we have to find a way to move forward. To find a way to end the killing. To help Ukraine rebuild and reconstruct. To return the children and reunite families. To provide lasting security for Ukraine – and for our Continent as a whole. And above all to forge a better future – a European future – for Ukraine.

Long live Europe.

Fitch Ratings has upgraded Eurobank Limited’s Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to ‘BBB’ from ‘BBB-‘ and Viability Rating (VR) to ‘bbb’ from ‘bbb-‘, while the Outlook on the Long-Term IDR was Stable.

According to a statement by the rating agency on Wednesday, the upgrade reflects its assessment of improved business and financial prospects for Cypriot banks due to continued economic growth and falling unemployment and private sector indebtedness.

It is added that the upgrade also factors in Eurobank Ltd’s strengthened business profile following the merger with Eurobank Cyprus Ltd and the acquisition of CNP Assurances SA’s (A-/Stable) Cypriot insurance business, which result in increased revenue diversification in insurance and corporate and private banking, and stronger market shares in Cyprus.

Fitch also states that Eurobank Ltd’s very strong operating profit has been supported by high net interest income on the bank’s large cash holdings and securities, some loan repricing and small loan impairment reversals, while strong revenue allowed the bank to more than offset moderate cost inflation.

The economic climate in Cyprus remained broadly unchanged in November 2025, with the Economic Sentiment Index (ESI) of the Economics Research Centre at the University of Cyprus (CypERC) remaining at roughly the same level as in October.

“The decline in business confidence in services was offset by improvements in economic confidence across the remaining sectors and among consumers,” says the Centre in its latest Business and Consumer Survey, which aims to capture the perceptions of entrepreneurs and consumers on various economic indicators.

It is noted that decrease in the Services Confidence Indicator was mainly driven by a deterioration in firms’ views on their recent turnover.

“The rise in the Retail Trade Confidence Indicator reflected improvements across all its components, namely assessments of stock levels and views on recent and expected sales,” it is further noted.

CypERC reports that the Construction Confidence Indicator increased again, as firms’ assessments of order book levels picked up further and employment expectations strengthened for the second month in a row, while the Industry Confidence Indicator rose slightly, owing to improved assessments of the current levels of order books and upward revisions in production expectations, despite a deterioration in the views on the stock of finished products.

It is added that the Consumer Confidence Indicator increased in November, as all four components of the indicator improved. Compared to October, it is stated, “consumers expressed more favourable views on their recent and future financial situation. In addition, consumers raised their expectations about economic conditions in Cyprus.”

In addition, CypERC reports that consumers’ intentions to make major purchases strengthened in November.

Finally, it is stated that the Economic Uncertainty Indicator for Cyprus declined further in November, reflecting lower consumer uncertainty across all income groups. ” Business uncertainty remained broadly stable at the low levels recorded in October,” the survey concludes.

The launch of an e-learning platform, aimed at training those involved in the Cypriot tourism industry in recognizing and reporting potential terrorist threats, as well as in crisis management, was announced on Wednesday by the British High Commission in Limassol.

The joint initiative between the United Kingdom and Cyprus is the first of its kind in Europe and is the result of close cooperation between the two countries in the fight against terrorism and the enforcement of law and order, said British High Commissioner Michael Tatham, at the “Safeguarding Cyprus’s Tourism Industry” conference, co-organized with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism.

In his address, Tatham noted that according to 2024 data, 34% of tourists on the island were British citizens, who choose Cyprus for its sunshine, blue skies, and Mediterranean climate. He added that the United Kingdom and Cyprus have a common interest in protecting and securing the island’s tourism sector.

Recalling that tourism is a key pillar of the Cypriot economy, contributing pound 3.2 billion annually, Tathan stressed that security is a factor that influences tourists’ choices and that the reputation of a safe destination is “a priceless asset – but it is hard-earned and important to protect.”

As other countries’ experiences have demonstrated, he added, even a single security incident can lead to untold human tragedy and to damaged confidence that affects jobs, investment and long-term reputation.

Emphasizing that Cyprus is an important partner for the United Kingdom in the eastern Mediterranean, which faces “complex security challenges,” Tatham expressed his belief that the two countries “can form a security bridge between Europe and the Middle East.”

Referring to past cooperation on law enforcement and security issues, he said that extending cooperation to tourism security was a natural development and announced the launch of Europe’s first Counter-Terrorism Awareness e-learning platform for the tourist sector.

The training program, he explained, is specifically designed for establishments where there is a high concentration of people and tourists – hotels, airports, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, and will enable the tourism sector to become increasingly counter-terrorism aware, to invest in staff training, and to share and incorporate best practice.

“It is specifically designed for establishments where there is a high concentration of people and tourists – hotels, airports, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. It will enable the tourism sector to become increasingly CT aware; to invest in staff training; and to share and incorporate best practice. I believe it can be a game-changer for safety in the tourism and hospitality sectors,” concluded the British High Commissioner.

For his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, Costas Constantinou, stressed that the Deputy Ministry is firmly committed to ensuring that Cyprus is a secure and resilient destination.

Constantinou noted that the objective is for every visitor to feel safe, every professional prepared, and every community protected, adding that safeguarding the tourism industry is a shared responsibility.

Expressing his appreciation to the United Kingdom for its support in developing the platform, he said that it provides modular training tailored to diverse roles, realistic scenarios and interactive content, and progress tracking and certification, while full bilingual access, in Greek and English, ensures inclusion of all tourism professionals.

He also called on all parties involved to participate in the training, share best practices, strengthen ties with the community, and regularly test contingency plans.

In a brief address on behalf of the Cyprus Police, Maria Charalambous expressed the force’s support for the program’s objectives, followed by details on the platform’s operation and a dialogue with stakeholders in the tourism industry.

Cyprus’ ‘full’ support for Ukraine, as well as concern over the progress of the peace negotiations, was expressed on Tuesday by members of the House Standing Committee on Foreign and European Affairs during their meeting in Nicosia with a delegation of the Ukraine-Cyprus Friendship Group of the Ukrainian Parliament.

According to a statement from the House of Representatives, the Cypriot MPs noted that the outcome of negotiations on Ukraine ‘may set a precedent that Cyprus, as a country that has been the victim of invasion and ongoing occupation, may be called upon to confront in the future.’

The head of the Ukrainian delegation, Oleksandr Tkachenko, expressed his appreciation for the fact that Cyprus remains a steadfast partner of Ukraine.

According to the announcement, Committee Chairman and President of the Cyprus-Ukraine Friendship Group, Harris Georgiades, Vice Chairman Marios Mavrides, and members Averof Neophytou, Giorgos Loukaides, Chrysis Pantelides, Christos Christou, and Kostis Efstathiou, along with MP Alexandra Attalidou, held a meeting with the Ukrainian delegation, which is paying a two-day visit to Cyprus.

The Ukrainian delegation consists of the President of the Friendship Group Oleksandr Tkachenko and members Valerii Dubil, Volodymyr Kozak, Valerii Bozhyk, Ihor Murdii and Roman Babiy.

Welcoming the delegation, Georgiades referred to the close ties between Cyprus and Ukraine, ‘which have been further strengthened through the difficult ordeal Ukraine has been experiencing in recent years.’

He stressed that Cyprus did not hesitate to stand by Ukraine from the very first moment of the Russian attack, providing not only political support by fully aligning with EU sanctions against Russia, but also substantial humanitarian aid by receiving a significant number of Ukrainian refugees, it said.

Cyprus, Georgiades underlined, ‘knows firsthand the consequences of foreign invasion and the ongoing occupation of part of its territory since 1974.’ For this reason, he added, ‘Cyprus deeply understands what it means for a state to be targeted by an authoritarian and revisionist neighbour who, through the threat of military force, seeks to undermine its sovereignty and very existence’, the announcement said.

For his part, Tkachenko expressed gratitude that Cyprus remains a firm partner of Ukraine, noting that the visit reaffirms the strong and longstanding ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. He said Ukraine greatly appreciates Cyprus’ consistent and tangible support, recalling that the Republic of Cyprus was among the first countries to clearly and immediately express solidarity with the Ukrainian people.

Tkachenko also noted that Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU in January 2026 comes at a critical juncture for Ukraine, which looks forward to progress in its path toward EU membership, it adds.

Referring to the recent US peace proposal for the Ukraine issue, Tkachenko ‘stressed’ that the country and people of Ukraine long for peace, according to the announcement. ‘He stressed, however, that the terms apparently being imposed by the Russian side remain extremely harsh, making it particularly difficult to achieve a just and sustainable solution’, it said. He expressed hope that the upcoming visit of President Zelenskyy to Washington would yield positive results, helping to de-escalate tensions and promote a peaceful resolution.

During the discussion, Cypriot MPs emphasised that Cyprus has unequivocally supported Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, ‘while also highlighting Turkey’s blatant violation of these same fundamental principles in relation to Cyprus’, it said.

They also noted that Cyprus’ full alignment with EU sanctions against Russia has had significant impact on the country’s economic interests but stressed that Cyprus has remained firm in its European commitments despite the cost, the announcement adds. ‘At the same time, they criticised Turkey’s deliberately neutral stance on the Ukraine issue, from which, they argued, it benefits economically as it applies no sanctions against Russia’.

The Cypriot MPs, it adds, reiterated Cyprus’ full support for Ukraine and expressed concern over the course of the peace negotiations, noting that their outcome could set a precedent that Cyprus, as a country suffering invasion and ongoing occupation, may have to confront in the future.

They also noted that during Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency, every effort would be made to safeguard and strengthen Ukraine’s European perspective.

Weather Temperature for Cyprus

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

Date 25/11/2025

Station

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

Humidity at

1200 UTC

Highest

Lowest

Nicosia (Athalassa)

22 (22.1)

17 (16.8)

67

Larnaka Airport

24 (24.3)

18 (17.9)

54

Limassol (New Port)

23 (22.9)

17 (16.8)

60

Limassol (Municipal Garden)

24.2

16.7

Pafos Airport

23 (22.7)

18 (18.4)

65

Frenaros

24 (24.2)

17 (16.7)

90

Prodromos

10 (9.8)

7 (7.4)

98

Polis Pafos

23 (23.2)

17 (17.1)

61

CNA/MY/GV/2025