Category: Cyprus News Agency

GSI key to EU energy security, President tells MED9

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides highlighted the role of the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) in strengthening the EU’s energy security and security of supply during the 13th MED9 Summit in Split, Croatia, while also addressing connectivity, the EU’s new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), climate change and developments in the Middle East.

According to a written statement by Director of the President’s Press Office Victor Papadopoulos, President Christodoulides referred during the Summit to issues concerning stability, security, connectivity and energy security in the Mediterranean and Europe.

In view of the upcoming European Council, the President raised the issue of Europe’s energy security and Cyprus’ contribution to this effort, as well as the importance of connectivity for Cyprus, as the EU’s southeasternmost member state.

He also referred to the new Multiannual Financial Framework, stressing that Mediterranean EU member states should work to strengthen the Mediterranean dimension of European policies.

President Christodoulides said the new MFF should provide adequate funding for areas including migration, cohesion policy, the Common Agricultural Policy, connectivity and infrastructure.

Referring to the Great Sea Interconnector, he stressed its major importance and the strong European interest in the project, noting the benefits it could bring to the EU’s energy security and security of supply. He also underlined the project’s significance in the context of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

The President also referred to the importance of good-neighbourly relations and regional cooperation, highlighting Cyprus’ initiatives aimed at promoting stability and peace in the wider region.

In this context, he referred to the establishment in Cyprus of the regional aerial firefighting centre, CRAFS, with the support of the European Commission.

During a thematic discussion on a ‘Sustainable Mediterranean’, President Christodoulides presented Cyprus’ regional initiative on climate change, the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Climate Change Initiative (EMME-CCI), as well as CRAFS as a concrete example of regional cooperation.

He noted that Cyprus’ national approach places particular emphasis on developing synergies and cooperation with countries in the region in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

During a working lunch with Jordan’s Crown Prince, discussions focused on developments in the Middle East. President Christodoulides stressed the need to support Jordan and Egypt, describing both countries as crucial to regional stability.

He also underlined the need for the EU to take action to prevent a security vacuum in Lebanon.

The President further referred to Cyprus’ humanitarian role in the region, including through the Amalthea maritime corridor for the delivery of humanitarian aid and operations to evacuate civilians from conflict zones.

On the sidelines of the Summit, President Christodoulides held a bilateral meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

According to the statement, the two discussed developments in the Cyprus problem, as well as the remaining steps towards Cyprus’ full accession to the Schengen Area.

Cyprus Stock Exchange

INDICES BASE VALUES: FTSEMed=5000, OTH

EURO (pound )

TRADED VALUE:

341.038,32

INDEX

VALUE

% DIFF.

VALUE (pound )

FTSE/CySE 20

184,490

-1,250

338.763,050

MAIN MARKET INDEX

245,210

-1,200

299.134,860

INVESTMENT COMPANIES MARKET INDEX

2.668,210

-0,400

31.745,010

CSE GENERAL INDEX

314,000

-1,240

341.025,220

HOTELS INDEX

2.006,070

0,000

0,000

ALTERNATIVE MARKET INDEX

2.129,250

-1,260

41.890,360

* The second column presents the percentage variation of the indices as compared to the last meeting.

Cyprus, Philippines sign three MoUs during Foreign Minister’s visit

The MoUs concern the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates, cooperation in sports, and the facilitation of the evacuation of Filipino nationals and their family members from areas of crisis, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa, through the Republic of Cyprus.

The first MoU concerns the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), facilitating the employment of Filipino seafarers on Cyprus-flagged vessels and Cypriot seafarers on Philippine-flagged vessels.

The second concerns cooperation in sports, including national teams, athletes, participation in sporting events, anti-doping, as well as the development of sports infrastructure and sports administration.

The third MoU concerns the facilitation of the evacuation of Filipino nationals and their family members from areas of crisis, with particular emphasis on the Middle East and North Africa, through the Republic of Cyprus.

Speaking after his meeting with Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro, Kombos said he was the first Cypriot Foreign Minister to visit the Philippines, noting that the frequency of contacts between the two countries in recent years ‘says a great deal’ about the importance both sides attach to their partnership.

‘We discussed the whole spectrum of our relations, including how to translate our strong commitment into further concrete results,’ he said, adding that the three MoUs strengthened the institutional framework of bilateral cooperation. He also recalled that another MoU had been signed just a few days earlier in New York.

Kombos referred particularly to the people-to-people links between the two countries, noting that several thousand Filipinos live and work in Cyprus, contributing to the economy and becoming an integral part of the country’s social and economic fabric.

He also said that more than 15,000 Filipino seafarers served on Cyprus-flagged vessels last year, highlighting the strong maritime ties between the two countries. He also referred to the presence of Cyprus-based shipping companies in the Philippines, as well as seafarer training centres, one of which he was due to visit during his trip.

Kombos also welcomed the presence of Cypriot technology companies in the Philippines, particularly in the artificial intelligence and financial technology sectors, describing this as ‘a promising basis for deeper cooperation in the very near future.’

Referring to maritime cooperation, he stressed that, as maritime nations, Cyprus and the Philippines know the crucial importance of freedom of navigation and the fundamental role of public international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which he described as ‘the constitution for the oceans.’

‘There can be no other way. Strict adherence is the only way,’ he said, referring to the need for full adherence to international law and UNCLOS.

At the same time, he stressed that the two countries must also focus on the well-being and rights of those serving at sea. In this context, he referred to Cyprus’ recent decision to endorse the Manila Declaration on Seafarers’ Rights, congratulating the Philippines for undertaking the initiative.

Kombos also paid Cyprus’ respects to Filipino seafarers who have lost their lives in international conflicts, noting that they were another example of the devastation caused by war.

The meeting also covered EU-ASEAN and EU-Philippines relations, with Kombos congratulating the Philippines on its 2026 ASEAN Chairpersonship and its contribution to strengthening the EU-ASEAN partnership.

Referring to EU-Philippines relations, he described the Enhanced Partnership and the substantial agreement reached on the EU-Philippines Free Trade Agreement as a ‘historical achievement.’

‘As far as Cyprus is concerned, we anticipate that the FTA will facilitate growth in our economic relations in both directions,’ he said.

The Cypriot Foreign Minister also briefed his Philippine counterpart on developments concerning the Cyprus Question and Cyprus’ efforts to renew negotiations ‘only and exclusively’ in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council parameters.

He expressed Cyprus’ deep appreciation for the Philippines’ longstanding and principled support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus.

Kombos concluded that Cyprus and the Philippines had managed to build a regular and substantive dialogue, expressing confidence that concrete results would continue to follow. He also said he very much hoped to welcome Lazaro soon in Cyprus and reciprocate the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

During his visit to the Philippines, Kombos also visited the Nautilus Training Centre, exclusive partner of Columbia Shipmanagement, which has trained more than 195,000 Filipino seafarers.

During his visit to Manila, he also laid a wreath at the memorial of José Rizal.

Cyprus Department of Meteorology – Forecast for the Sea Area of Cyprus (C)

CYPRUS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY

FORECAST FOR THE SEA AREA OF CYPRUS (C)

FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1800 07/10/2026 UNTIL 1800 08/10/2026

Area covered is 8 kilometers seawards.

Winds are in BEAUFORT scale. Times are local times.

Atmospheric pressure at the time of issue: 1017hPa (hectopascal)

Unstable airmass is affecting the area. The weather will be partly cloudy at times.

Visibility: Good

Sea surface temperature: 26°C

Warnings: NIL

AREA PERIOD WIND STATE OF SEA

West Coast

Night Northwest to Northeast 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning Northeast to Southeast 3, soon Southwest Smooth to Slight

Afternoon Northwest 4 Slight

South Coast

Night Northwest to North 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning Northeast to East 3, gradually East to Southeast Smooth to Slight

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

East Coast

Night West to Northwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning Northeast 3 Smooth to Slight

Afternoon Northeast to Southeast 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

North Coast

Night Southeast to Southwest 3 Smooth to Slight

Morning North to Northeast 3 Smooth to Slight

Afternoon Northwest 3, locally 3 to 4 Smooth to Slight

Cyprus cheesemakers see further halloumi export potential in US market

The annual value of halloumi cheese exports stands at approximately pound 350 million, with UK being the primary market, absorbing about 45% of production, followed by Sweden, Greece, and other European countries, Michalis Koulouros, executive secretary of the Cheesemakers’ Association has told the Cyprus News Agency.

Halloumi is a type of dairy product made with milk originating from Cyprus. According to CyStat figures halloumi exports reached pound 201.9 million during the first half of the year, representing 12.8% of total exports, compared to pound 199.6 million (and 11.03% of total exports) during the same period last year.

Cheesemakers believe there is potential to increase exports at this time. But they say that the quota issue is an obstacle, noting that increasing halloumi production requires the availability of milk within the quota limits to allow for such an increase.

Koulouros told the Cyprus News Agency that all milk not used for pasteurization, yogurt, or other cheeses is channeled into halloumi production. He said that there is no surplus milk available to increase production, pointing out that all the quality that exists is processed into cheese.

He also said that the only way to increase production is either through the quota system or by boosting overall output.

Regarding the quota and its implications for exports, Koulouros said that this is a matter of concern for cheesemakers. He noted that the new decree safeguards production, adding that the concern has to do whether the makers will reach the 51% threshold, a level that would not allow production to continue in its current form.

Consequently, exports would inevitably be affected, given that 80% to 85% of the halloumi produced in Cyprus is destined for export, he explained.

He also recalled that there is a ministerial decree currently in effect, setting the minimum ratio for halloumi production at 15% for the period from May 15, 2026, to December 31, 2026.

The milk content percentages for the product can be regulated via decree until 2029, when the five-year extension to the transition period, granted by the European Commission to allow for compliance with the PDO production specifications, expires.

Koulouros told the Cyprus News Agency that cheese producers are making efforts to expand into the US market. He described it as a unique market, pointing out that it takes a bit more time to ramp up sales, but it is certainly a market that interests cheesemakers.

He noted that while some cheesemakers already export there, the market’s specific complexities mean that it is not really feasible to increase exports to the US tenfold in a single year.

Koulouros also mentioned that discussions with the government make it clear that the goal is to sustain halloumi exports.

When asked about participation in international trade fairs to promote the product, he stated that the dairies participate as individual companies in all major global food exhibitions. He referred to the SIAL international food fair in Paris-an event attracting huge numbers of visitors, held from October 17 to 21 in which seven Cypriot dairies are taking part.

Marina Neophytou is the first female Rector of the University of Cyprus

Marina Neophytou, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, was elected the new Rector of the University of Cyprus on Wednesday, securing 214 votes in the fourth round of counting. She is the first woman to serve as Rector of this academic institution.

“We are setting out together for the future,” Neophytou said following her election, thanking everyone “for their trust.”

The results of the vote for the Rectorship early in the afternoon. Announcing the results at the University of Cyprus Sports Centre, the Returning Officer for the 2026 Rectoral Elections, Savvas Christodoulou, said that the total number of electors was 486. A total of 437 votes were cast; there were 432 valid ballots and 5 invalid ballots.

In the first count, he noted, Ioannis Yapintzakis received 121 votes, Sofronis Clerides 68, Fofi Constantinidou 44, Marina Neophytou 106, and Eleni-Tatiani Synodinou 89, while there were four blank ballots.

In the second count, Ioannis Yapintzakis received 128 votes, Sofronis Clerides 82, Marina Neophytou 118, and Eleni-Tatiani Synodinou 95, while there were five blank ballots.

In the third count, Ioannis Yapintzakis received 145 votes, Marina Neophytou 136, and Eleni-Tatiani Synodinou 133, while there were nine blank ballots. In the fourth round, the Returning Officer stated, Ioannis Yapintzakis received 183 votes and Marina Neophytou 214, “resulting in Marina Neophytou becoming our new Rector.”

In her post-election remarks, Neophytou stated that the voting system needs to change to become faster, more efficient, and more modern, and thanked the electoral committee.

“The community has decided; it has spoken. We are moving forward together into the future,” said Neophytou, thanking everyone “for their trust.”

Marina Neophytou received congratulations from the outgoing Rector of the University, Tasos Christofides, and other colleagues.

Following the election of the new Rector, voting began for the Vice-Rectors of International Relations, Finance and Administration, and Academic Affairs. Nominees for the position of Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs is Georgia Panayiotou, Professor in the Department of Psychology, and for the position of Vice-Rector for International Relations, Finance, and Administration Antonis A. Ellinas, Professor in the Department of Social and Political Sciences, and Marios D. Dikaiakos, Professor in the Department of Computer Science.

Cyprus aims to contribute as a reliable partner between Europe and Middle East, President says at MED9

Cyprus has been utilizing its position and building its capabilities around the aim of contributing as a steady, reliable and predictable partner between Europe and the wider Middle East, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides stressed on Wednesday in his remarks at the joint press conference of the leaders of the states of 13th MED9, in Split, Croatia.

In his remarks, President Christodoulides also referred to the Multiannual Financial Framework, saying that there is a clear need to give greater political weigh to the Mediterranean dimension of our EU agenda in practical terms.

He thanked the leaders for “their continued support in our efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, as highlighted again today in the joint declaration we just adopted”. Cyprus, he said, being a member state of the EU coming from the Mediterranean region has the firm belief and the main principle of its foreign policy, that today’s multiple challenges require partnerships and cooperation across regions.

“Cyprus is geographically blessed to be at the crossroads of three continents. And we have been utilizing our position, building our capabilities around the aim of contributing as a steady, reliable and predictable partner between Europe and the wider Middle East” he pointed out.

One such example, he said, “is the devastating humanitarian situation in Gaza, for which we have immediately put forward the Amalthea Maritime Humanitarian Corridor, the only route by an EU Member State, supplementary to the land and air corridors.”

He explained that through this humanitarian corridor, which continues delivering to this day, more than 37 thousand tonnes of aid have reached the civilian population of Gaza. And when conditions permit, Amalthea can also support early recovery in Gaza, he pointed out.

Another example, the President said, is the evacuation of European and third-country nationals from our neighbourhood, during times of crisis.

“We are proud to have evacuated several thousand citizens from 70 different countries, in the last three years” President Christodoulides stressed.

Our commitment, he added, to regional engagement is manifested also through the Cyprus Center for Land, Open Seas and Port Security.

He explained that it was created jointly with the US in 2022, and has already provided specialized training to thousands of officials from almost 60 countries, from Europe, and the region.

“Another challenge, transcending borders, is climate change, which particularly affects the Mediterranean region” he said, adding that “we have put forward the Eastern Mediterranean – Middle East Climate Change Initiative, bringing together countries of our region, in order to strengthen our collective capacity for resilience, adaptation, and mitigation”.

Noting that there are many more examples, he referred to the establishment recently in Cyprus, of the Cyprus Regional Air Fire Fighting Station that brings together countries of the region, an effort done with the support of the European Commission.

With regard to the MFF, he noted that there is a clear need to give greater political weigh to the Mediterranean dimension of our EU agenda in practical terms.

The first and best way to do so, he pointed out, is to give this enhanced EU visibility to the Mediterranean in the next MFF.

“We should ensure adequate funding on issues like Migration and border management, climate resilience and connectivity”.

And this is also the means to turn the Commission’s Pact for the Mediterranean into concrete projects connecting the EU with the region, he stressed.

On the overall balance of the MFF, he recalled that he cosigned the Friends of Cohesion letter, and that “we support the new priorities like competitiveness, defense and security bit not at the expense of cohesion and common agricultural policy”.

At the same time, the President said, the MFF should take into account the specificities of its member states.

“For my country, for Cyprus, this means recognizing the specific constraints linked to our geographic position, exclusion from major European transport and energy networks, absence of critical industrial sectors and our position at the EU’s southeastern frontier” he concluded.

Financial inability to afford leisure activities in Cyprus below EU average, according to Eurostat

In 2025, the share of people in Cyprus who could not afford to participate regularly in leisure activities stood at 6.3%, down from 8.7% in 2024, according to data published by Eurostat on Wednesday.

The rate in Cyprus was below the EU average, which stood at 12.1% in 2025. Among Member States, the lowest rate was recorded in Croatia, at 3.9%, and the highest in Greece, at 27.3%.

As regards the ability to afford a meal with meat, chicken, fish or a vegetarian equivalent every second day, Cyprus recorded the lowest rate in the EU, at 1.2%, unchanged from 2024.

Across the EU, 8.5% of people could not afford such a meal every second day. The rates ranged from 1.2% in Cyprus to 18.1% in Romania.

The share of people in Cyprus who could not afford an internet connection for personal use at home also remained low. In 2025, it stood at 0.2%, down from 0.3% in 2024.

At EU level, the corresponding rate was 2.0%. The lowest rate was recorded in Finland, at 0.1%, and the highest in Romania, at 6.2%.