Category: Cyprus News Agency

Larnaca Biennale enhances Cyprus’ international cultural footprint, Deputy Minister of Culture Vassiliki Kassianidou said on Wednesday. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 4th Larnaca Biennale at the Larnaca Municipal Art Gallery, Kassianidou noted that the Deputy Ministry actively supports the event.

She said the 2025 edition features 115 works from 42 countries, the largest number in the Biennale’s history. The open call attracted 526 submissions, said the Deputy Minister, referring to ‘a growing international interest in Cyprus’ vibrant contemporary art scene.’

Kassianidou said the Biennale ‘has now become a reference point for the contemporary international and local visual arts scene.’ It serves, she added, as ‘a meeting ground where artists, curators, art historians and the public exchange experiences and open new channels for dialogue about art.’

She noted that the Biennale functions both as a platform for emerging artists and as an institution shaping contemporary art trends.

‘Year after year, it evolves into a fertile field of exchange for works and ideas, weaving an ever-expanding network of creative agents,’ she said.

Referring to this year’s theme, Following Traces and Lines, curated by Sana López Abellán, she said it invites people to reflect on ‘how visual and symbolic motifs reveal the complexity of human existence-the lines and traces of our paths serving as testimonies of our interactions with others and our environment.’

The Council of Ministers approved Wednesday a bill on the integration of the gender dimension in the preparation of legislative initiatives and other actions. In statements to the Press after the Cabinet’s meeting, Commissioner for Gender Equality, Josie Christodoulou said that the approval was ‘an important step towards substantive equality between women and men’.

Christodoulou noted that the bill aims to include the obligation to integrate the gender perspective in the preparation of legislative initiatives, the preparation of the state budget, the public procurement process and the implementation of actions included in the National Strategy for Gender Equality. She added that the bill provides that each Ministry, Deputy Ministry, service, authority and the broader public sector should, when planning policies and actions, consider the different needs and realities of men and women.

‘Such a legislative regulation ensures that public policies will now respond more fully and effectively to the needs and demands of society, while accelerating progress towards substantive gender equality,’ she said.

Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis referred to continued efforts for a Cyprus settlement, to the country’s role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean as well as to the strategic importance of shipping to the Cypriot economy, while addressing an event, in a London hotel, on Tuesday, to mark the 65th anniversary of the independence and establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.

Hadjimanolis represented the Cyprus government at the event, while the UK government was represented by the Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations, Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds.

The celebration was attended by British MPs, government officials, representatives of the Commonwealth and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), diplomats, members of the Church, the business and academic communities, and Cypriots from the diaspora. His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain honored the event with his presence.

High Commissioner Dr. Kyriacos P. Kouros and his wife, Vasiliki Kinani Kourou, together with members of the Cypriot diplomatic mission, welcomed the guests. The event began with the national anthems of Cyprus and the United Kingdom.

In his welcome address, the High Commissioner referred to the international challenges and conflicts affecting Cyprus and the wider region, as well as the ongoing occupation and the need to restart meaningful negotiations for reunification. At the same time, he highlighted the progress and resilience of the Republic of Cyprus and emphasized the importance of Cyprus-UK relations on political, economic, and defence levels. He also underlined the contribution of shipping to the Cypriot economy, dedicating this year’s anniversary to Cyprus’s candidacy for re-election to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

In her remarks, Hadjimanolis praised the close and enduring ties between Cyprus and the United Kingdom, making special reference to the Cypriot community in the UK for its contribution to maintaining the bonds between the two countries. She also highlighted the development, challenges, and achievements of the Cypriot state, focusing on the Republic’s steady progress and resilience ‘despite the challenges,’ as she noted. Ms. Hadjimanolis reiterated Cyprus’s continued efforts toward reunification and its role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. Finally, she spoke of the strategic importance of shipping to the Cypriot economy and of Cyprus’s candidacy for re-election to the IMO Council, stressing the country’s role as a reliable and active partner in the international maritime community.

Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds, in his address, congratulated the Republic of Cyprus and its people on 65 years of independence, emphasizing the deep and multifaceted relationship that unites the two countries. He also expressed the UK government’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Cyprus at political, economic, and social levels. Moreover, he reaffirmed the UK’s long-standing support for a solution to the Cyprus issue based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality. He announced that he would visit the island in the coming weeks, as Cyprus prepares to assume the presidency of the European Union in the first half of 2026.

The evening concluded with a cultural and musical program that showcased the richness, hospitality, and vibrancy of Cypriot culture.

The Nicosia Tourism Board concluded its participation in the European Week of Regions and Cities 2025 with the highly successful Taste Nicosia – European Regions Week Tasting Event, held on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, at Square Brussels, Grand Hall 1.

According to a press release, the Nicosia tasting stand remained full throughout the evening, attracting hundreds of visitors eager to experience the capital’s authentic flavours. “Many participants praised Taste Nicosia as the best tasting event of the evening, commending its quality, creativity, and presentation”, the Nicosia Tourism Board says.

Visitors enthusiastically embraced Nicosia’s gastronomic identity, discovering the city through its flavours, aromas, and contemporary creations that express its sustainable, innovative, and authentic culinary culture.

The Board extends special thanks to Cypriot Gastronomy Chef Marilena Ioannidou, who curated the event’s menu, masterfully presenting Nicosia’s culinary tradition through a modern, sustainable, and artistic approach.

The tasting sessions took place under the theme ‘The Right to Stay: Unlocking the potential of every territory.’ The Board notes that they support gastronomic entrepreneurship emerging from the mountainous and remote communities of the Nicosia region, initiatives that enrich the capital’s culinary experiences and contribute to the sustainable prosperity and development of our region. “We warmly congratulate all those who choose to stay and create in their areas, keeping our gastronomic heritage alive!”, the press release reads.

‘The enthusiastic response from the audience in Brussels proved that Nicosia holds its own unique place on Europe’s gastronomic map. We are proud to have represented Cyprus with such warm reception and success’ stated Theodoros Kringou, President of the Nicosia Tourism Board.

With Taste Nicosia, the Cypriot capital continues to strengthen its international presence, promoting gastronomy, culture, and tourism as key pillars sustainable growth and prosperity, the press release concludes.

The number of building permits authorized during June 2025 stood at 635 compared to 1,528 in June 2024, registering a decrease of 58.4%, the Statistical Service said in a statement on Wednesday.

As noted, the total value of these permits reached pound 275.1 million and the total area 236.7 thousand square metres, providing for the construction of 1,132 dwelling units.

According to the Service, during the period January – June 2025, 3,399 building permits were issued compared to 4,782 in the corresponding period of the previous year, recording a decrease of 28.9%.

It is added that the total value of these permits decreased by 15.2% and the total area by 12.4%, while the number of dwelling units recorded a decrease of 13.1%.

It is further noted that as from the 1st July 2024, the authority of issuing building permits was transferred from the municipalities and the district administration offices to the newly founded Local Government Organisations (LGOs) and the licensing process is performed through the new integrated information system ‘Ippodamos’.

Welcome speech by the Shipping Deputy Minister of the Republic of Cyprus, Ms Marina Hadjimanolis, at the reception held by the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to the UK on the occasion of the 65th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus

London, 14 October 2025

Right Honourable Minister(s)

Your Excellency, High Commissioner,

Your Excellencies, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening,

It is with great pleasure and deep pride that I stand before you today, to commemorate the 65th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Cyprus. I thank His Excellency, the High Commissioner, Dr. Kouros, for hosting this reception, and for extending a warm welcome to us all.

First, allow me to express, my sincere gratitude to all of you, who have joined us tonight, from the British government, MPs, international institutions, diplomats, the Cypriot diaspora, and friends of Cyprus. Your presence, is a testament to the enduring bonds between Cyprus and the United Kingdom, and to the shared values that unite us.

Sixty-five years ago, the Republic of Cyprus was born as a sovereign state, born out of struggle, compromise, and hope for a future in which our people hoped to live free, in peace and dignity. Despite the obstacles, over the decades, we have charted a path of progress: building democratic institutions, joining the European Union, developing our economy, and fostering partnerships across the globe. Today, we remember those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom and continue to honour their legacy by striving each day for a renewed, and above all, a reunited Cyprus.

Yet, as we reflect on our achievements, we must also confront continuing challenges. The continuous occupation and division of our island, since the Turkish invasion and occupation in 1974, remains the deepest wound in our lives. We continue to seek, with steadfast resolution, a just, viable and lasting solution, that will reunify our homeland, and ensure peace, security and dignity for every Cypriot.

This year, marks 51 years since the tragic events that led to Turkish occupation of 37% of the island. President Christodoulides, made it clear in his speech at the UNGA (United Nations General Assembly) last month, that he is determined to continue exerting all efforts to end the occupation, through negotiations for a comprehensive settlement that will reunify Cyprus under a bizonal bicommunal federation with political equality, in line with UN Security Council Resolutions and EU law values and principles. Through perseverance, methodical approach, and credibility, we have already yielded significant results, bringing the Cyprus issue back to the international stage, and opening prospects for meaningful advancement.

We count on the valuable support of the United Kingdom, as one of the guarantor powers for Cyprus and a Permanent Member of the UN Security Council to help us reach a solution that will reunify our country. As a refugee myself from Famagusta, there is nothing I wish more.

Despite these challenges, the Republic of Cyprus, has managed to prosper and achieve remarkable progress, and achievements due to the resilience and handwork of its people. It is on these achievements that we, continue to build. With a clear set of priorities, we are committed to fostering further growth, and enhancing the resilience of the Cyprus economy, an essential condition for safeguarding the continued existence and prosperity of the Republic of Cyprus. Our economy ranks among the strongest in Europe. The growth rate, remains among the highest in the Eurozone, full employment conditions prevail in the labour market, and public debt continues on a steady downward trajectory.

What is important to mention, is the fact that the shipping sector, is one of the main pillars of our economy, contributing more than 7% to the country’s GDP, representing one of the most strategic sectors of Cyprus. At the Shipping Ministry, we are committed daily to upholding Cyprus’ international reputation as a maritime hub of quality and reliability. We work closely with social partners, strengthen our international relations, and support Cypriot shipping companies operating both domestically, and internationally offering thousands of job opportunities, many of which maintain a strong presence here in the UK.

On the international stage, the Republic of Cyprus remains steadfast in its commitment to responsibility, playing an active and essential role as a pillar of security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East region. Leveraging its geostrategic position, Cyprus has transformed its geographical position into a valuable asset, particularly in a region marked by persistent geopolitical tensions and prolonged crises, where the need for a neutral and credible presence, is imperative. As a stable, predictable, and responsible partner, my country serves as a safe and reliable harbour. Through concrete initiatives – demonstrated by action, rather than mere words, Cyprus is emerging as a hub for stability, a safe evacuation point for civilians, a humanitarian corridor, and a beacon of peace, dialogue, and cooperation.

In January of 2026, Cyprus will assume the Presidency of the Council of the EU, for the second time, after 14 years from the first Presidency, back in 2012. For us, it is not just an obligation, it represents a national mission. We will exercise our responsibility fully aware of what is at stake: An imperative need to deliver stronger Multilateralism, more integration, and more cooperation between Europe and the world. To deliver a stronger, more secure, more autonomous Union.

The unity though of the Republic of Cyprus, lies beyond the European Union. Cypriots of the diaspora, are located across continents and oceans, others near our homeland, other far away. On behalf of President Christodoulides, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Cypriot community here in the United Kingdom. You are the embodiment of our nation’s spirit, and your contribution has been – and continues to be – invaluable. The presence of so many of you here today, honours our country and its struggles. You serve as a bridge between our homeland and the UK, strengthening the bonds that unite us. Among you, we are fortunate to count brilliant scientists, visionary entrepreneurs, and engaged citizens with a strong public presence. You are the finest ambassadors of Cyprus, carrying its legacy and values to every corner of the world.

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear friends,

Tonight’s celebration, is also an opportunity to reflect on the enduring relationship and friendship between Cyprus and the United Kingdom, which continues to evolve and deepen. The three meetings, that have taken place between President Christodoulides and Prime Minister Starmer in the last year, is a testament to the strong level that our bilateral relations have reached.

Our shared history is long and complex, but it has given rise to a unique and mutually respectful partnership, built on strong political dialogue, extensive economic cooperation, close educational links, and deep human connections. Over the decades, our two nations have worked side by side within the Commonwealth, the United Nations and the International Maritime Organisation, to advance common values: democracy, the rule of law, maritime freedom, and respect for international norms.

The Memorandum of Understanding on Establishing a Strategic Framework of Cooperation between Cyprus, signed in 2022, now serves as a foundation for deeper collaboration in areas such as trade, energy, defence, research, education, and of course, shipping. It reflects our shared commitment to adapt our partnership to new realities and opportunities.

The UK remains one of Cyprus’s top trading partners, both for goods and services. Thousands of British companies operate or invest in Cyprus, while Cypriot businesses see the UK as a key market and a hub for innovation and finance.

Lastly, I could not have finished my speech, without highlighting Cyprus shipping. As you already know, Cyprus, as an island state, attaches great importance to shipping.

Over the years, Cyprus has evolved into a fully-fledged shipping centre, combining a prestigious and a quality sovereign registry of ships of high standards, of safety and a domestic shipping industry, renowned for its excellent quality services. Today, more than 250 shipping-related companies, operate in Cyprus, making Cyprus the biggest European ship management centre, and amongst the top 3 globally, managing approximately 20% of global fleet.

We have been an active and constructive member of the IMO Council, since 1987, and we count on your support as we seek re-election at the upcoming elections next month.

Just a few days ago, the heart of international shipping, was beating strongly and proudly, in Cyprus, at Maritime Cyprus 2025 Conference, where the Secretary General of the IMO, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, along with EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, and EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Mr. Costas Kadis, honoured us with their presence, leveraging the status of the Conference as a whole, sending powerful messages of unity and constant cooperation on European and International level.

Dear friends,

As we celebrate the 65th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus, let us carry forward the legacy of those who came before us. Let this occasion not only be a moment of remembrance, but also one of renewed commitment to our shared values: freedom, democracy, peace, and cooperation.

Happy 65th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus!

Finance Minister, Makis Keravnos, on Wednesday welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) estimates on Cyprus noting that they confirm the Government’s estimates and the continued growth path and resilience of the country’s economy.

In his statements after a meeting of the Council of Ministers at the Presidential Palace, Keravnos welcomed the latest IMF estimates – its October edition of the World Economic Outlook – noting that ‘its estimates are always much more conservative, even than our own conservative estimates.’

As you know, he said, ‘the International Monetary Fund is one of the organisations that still monitor developments in Cyprus, after the crisis we had’, but that it also monitors developments in Europe and worldwide.

The Minister said that the IMF predicts that global growth will slow from 3.3% in 2024 to 3.2% in 2025 and to 3.1% in 2026. ‘As for Cyprus, the IMF presents improved estimates for our economy, according to which a growth rate of 2.9% on average throughout the period 2025-2028, is expected’, he added. ‘Inflation is expected to decrease to 0.7% in 2025, which is also our forecast, and then increase to 1.3% in 2026,’ adding that this estimate ‘is still much more improved than our own estimate.’

Keravnos said that according to IMF estimates, unemployment is expected to decrease to 4.5% and that the fiscal balance is expected to maintain a surplus of 3% of gross domestic product on average for the entire 2025-2028 period.

He expressed satisfaction with the IMF estimates, because, as he said, ‘they confirm our estimates, and the continued, good growth trajectory and resilience of Cyprus’ economy’.

Cyprus, speaking at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly during the interactive dialogue with High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Trk, reiterated its firm commitment to strengthening the UN human rights protection system.

As the Cypriot Permanent Representative ambassador Maria Michael underlined, ‘strengthening the UN human rights pillar is essential,’ and Cyprus ‘fully supports the High Commissioner’s mandate and appreciates his work to advance the promotion and protection of human rights across the world.’

She stressed that, as a member of the Human Rights Council, the country attaches particular importance to ‘continued and constructive cooperation’ with the Office of the High Commissioner, expressing hope for ‘further strengthening of exchanges and cooperation.’ She also underlined the importance of adequate funding for the Office, ‘enabling treaty bodies, Special Procedures, and investigative mechanisms to fully carry out their mandates.’

Cyprus, she noted, has ‘significantly increased its voluntary contribution’ to the Office of the High Commissioner and ‘will continue to do so, recognizing its responsibility to assist in the full delivery of its mandate.’

Ambassador Michael ‘reaffirmed the country’s strong support and commitment to multilateralism and to the responsibility to respect, protect, and promote human rights, leaving no one behind.’

Concluding, she expressed interest in hearing the High Commissioner’s views on the ‘challenges and opportunities for his Office and mandate under the UN80 initiative.’

The Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates has expressed his country’s deep appreciation for Cyprus’ role as a reliable partner in the wider region, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to provide all possible support to efforts to further strengthen bilateral economic relations and investments.

According to a press release by the Ministry of Energy, Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, George Papanastasiou, who is in Dubai for the international exhibition GITEX GLOBAL 2025, held today an official meeting with Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, during which they discussed important issues of bilateral and regional cooperation.

The two Ministers exchanged views, among other things, on the upcoming establishment of the Cyprus Business Council, which will be based in Dubai and will consist of representatives of Cypriot businesses operating in the UAE. Provided that the relevant procedures are completed, the Council’s statute will be officially signed by its founding members, at a ceremony to be held within the framework of the international Doers Summit (Dubai, 26 and 27 November), it is added.

Papanastasiou briefed the UAE official on the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union and presented Cyprus’s key priorities in the areas of energy, trade and industry. In this context, they discussed about the prospect of a trade agreement between the European Union and the United Arab Emirates, an issue that remains high on the European agenda and is of particular interest to both states, the press release says.

Furthermore, the Minister of Energy briefed the UAE Minister of Economy on the Technological Park project, the Paphos Marina, as well as the energy interconnection and other strategic projects that strengthen Cyprus-UAE cooperation in the field of energy infrastructure. He also made special reference to the excellent relations between Cyprus and Egypt, which contribute decisively to the stability and development of the region, the press release notes.

The UAE Minister expressed his deep appreciation for the role of Cyprus as a reliable partner in the wider region, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to provide all possible support in efforts to further strengthen bilateral economic relations and investments.

He also briefed the Cypriot Minister on the possible synergies given the interest of companies from the UAE to operate in Cyprus, as well as on the next international Investopia conference in Athens, where energy issues will be high on the agenda. He noted that without energy there cannot be development of new digital technologies, such as AI Datacenters.

The two Ministers agreed to meet again in November, in the context of the Doers Summit and the 1st General Assembly of the Cyprus Business Council, the press release concludes.

The Cyprus Union of Shipowners (CUS) urged on Wednesday the Member States of the European Union, and in particular the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, to vote against the current IMO’s Net-Zero Framework (NZF) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), scheduled for adoption at the MEPC ES.2 session (14-17 October), in order to allow more time for consensus by major stakeholders,

According to the CUS, as currently drafted, “the NZF poses a serious threat to the European shipping, economy, and energy security, and also represents a grave danger to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of European shipping”, representing, as stated, ‘a multi-billion euro tax that does not reduce emissions but instead shifts the cost to end-consumers fuelling inflation across the European Union.’

‘The NZF imposes exorbitant charges despite the current lack of realistic technologies or infrastructure to ensure compliance, relying on so-called ‘green’ fuels – methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and synthetic LNG – which are not available at industrial scale and consume more renewable energy in production than they yield’, the union continues, adding that rather than reducing emissions, ‘the framework diverts critical financial resources away from genuine technological and energy innovation, thereby slowing the transition to cleaner solutions’.

‘Shipping transports over 90% of global trade. Any additional cost imposed on ships will inevitably be passed on to the prices of all goods and services – from food and medicines to raw materials and energy. The result will be broad-based price increases, a higher cost of living and intensified inflation’, it is further noted.

Furthermore, it is stated that the NZF’s implementation would lead to a supply shortage, at a time when there are no mature or scalable alternatives to fill the supply gap.

‘As a result, the SMEs, being the backbone of EU shipping, will face competitive challenges resulting in a setback for the EU as a whole. Such an outcome would entail a permanent strategic setback for Europe, resulting in the loss of its global maritime leadership, severe ecological damage, as the premature dismantling and replacement of ships would generate massive waste and additional emissions, the destabilization of global supply chains, with delays, product shortages, and higher transport costs and accelerating inflation and loss of purchasing power throughout Europe and, by extension, globally’, it is stressed.

According to CUS, Europe remains heavily dependent on LNG imports, as, currently, imported LNG reaches Europe, already more than double the U.S. domestic price.

‘Under the NZF, this cost is projected to rise further, triggering energy price surges, further inflationary pressure and a deepening energy crisis – with disproportionate effects on households and industry’, it is added in that regard.

International shipping is the most efficient and environmentally sustainable mode of transport. Through technological innovation, operational optimization and continuous investment, the industry has achieved significant emission reductions, even as transport volumes have multiplied, it is further stated.

Shipping is a pillar of the Cypriot economy and a strategic sector for Europe as a whole, continues the union, adding that as a major maritime nation, Cyprus must support the European consumer and the creation of a global and decarbonization incentive scheme whose funds are re-invested amongst others in the shipping industry, whilst at the same time rejecting unfair, ineffective, and damaging multi-billion taxation schemes (whether regional or not) with no experience or clear procedures over how such funds are utilized.

‘The Cyprus Union of Shipowners supports global policies of genuine environmental progress under the auspices of the IMO – and to that end, calls upon the Government of the Republic of Cyprus and all EU Member States to vote against the current IMO’s Net-Zero Framework (NZF) in order to allow more time for consensus by major stakeholders. Any solution should be founded on research, technological innovation, and realistic, science-based solutions that safeguard people, the economy, environment, and the industry, without crushing economies and consumers’, the statement concludes.