PRESS RELEASE – UNIVERSITY OF CYPRUS

The TWIN4MERIT project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme (Grant Agreement No. 101079196), will host its International Thematic Symposium entitled ‘Rethinking Research Assessment’ on Monday, 24 November 2025, from 09:45 to 16:00 CET, via Microsoft Teams.

This international thematic symposium will bring together leading researchers with complementary expertise to exchange ideas, review the current state of the field, identify challenges, and explore new directions for research in the broader MERIT domain. The event will also highlight the role of Cyprus and the EU as major research stakeholders in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East (EMME) region.

The outcomes of the symposium will be reflected in a forthcoming review or opinion paper, aiming to influence the international scientific community and to consolidate the project’s contribution to research assessment reform and policy innovation.

The symposium will feature distinguished experts from European universities and research organisations to discuss how research assessment can evolve beyond traditional bibliometric indicators towards inclusive, qualitative, and transparent models, aligned with Open Science principles.

Keynote Speakers

Dr. Gema Bueno de la Fuente – Universidad de Zaragoza

Dr. Núria Bautista Puig – Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)

Prof. Emanuel Kulczycki – Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan

Dr. Yensi Flores Bueso – University College Cork

Prof. Zacharias Maniadis – University of Cyprus

Prof. Eva Méndez – Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

Themes and Topics

The programme will address key questions such as:

How can university libraries and open-access repositories enhance research visibility and transparency?

What role do sustainability rankings and citizen engagement play in rethinking assessment frameworks?

How can narrative CVs promote equity and inclusion for early-career researchers?

What should research assessment look like in the Open Science?

A final Delphi Panel Discussion will bring together all speakers to formulate recommendations for policymakers and institutions, identifying key challenges and priorities in responsible and collaborative research evaluation.

The event will conclude with closing remarks by the University of Cyprus coordination team, emphasising TWIN4MERIT’s mission to advance excellence in research management and evaluation across Europe.

About TWIN4MERIT

TWIN4MERIT (Twinning for Excellence in Management and Economics of Research and Innovation) aims to enhance research management, evaluation, and policy frameworks in Cyprus and across Europe, promoting a culture of responsible research, Open Science, and innovation aligned with the priorities of the European Research Area.

Funding: This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No. 101079196

SURINAME-LAW-CCJ president says environmental issues now more relevant in law

President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Winston Anderson says environmental issues are becoming increasingly relevant in law because they are directly related to human action.

Anderson, who is leading a delegation from the Trinidad-based court to Suriname, made the disclosure while participating in a symposium organised at the Faculty of Legal Sciences of Anton de Kom University in connection with the 50th anniversary of Srefidens, under the theme ’50 Years of Law, Governance, and Security: Then, Now, and Beyond.’.

President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Winston Anderson, is greeted on arrival at the Faculty of Legal Sciences of Anton de Kom University

Justice Anderson, who assumed the presidency of the region’s highest court in July this year, said on the issue of environmental matters becoming increasing relevant in law ‘there’s still debate about this, but we clearly see a link between, for example, the increase in greenhouse gases and global warming and climate change’.

He made reference to the passage of Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean region last week, resulting in deaths and widespread damage in Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, the Bahamas and Bermuda.

‘Aid from the richer countries that produce the greenhouse gases that warm the planet is a moral and psychological issue, but internationally, the question is now also being asked whether this can be interpreted legally.

‘We are looking at ways to argue this legally, to actually obtain aid to repair the damage caused,’ said the CCJ president.

The event which was held on Tuesday, will continue on Friday covering topics such as integrated safety, cybersecurity, maritime law in relation to oil and gas, and forensic criminology.

Justice Anderson’s visit to the university was part of his programme to complete the CCJ’s Referral Training Session with the Surinamese Bar Association.

On Monday, the CCJ delegation paid a courtesy call on the Justice and Police Minister (Juspol), Harish Monorath, with Justice Saunders presenting him with a copy of the CCJ Original Jurisdiction Rules 2024, which have been translated into Dutch.

A statement issued by Juspol said that during the meeting a manual outlining the steps to be followed from the Surinamese court to the CCJ had also been translated.

Cyprus’s first domestically developed satellite is scheduled for launch in 2026, Chief Scientist says

Cyprus’s first domestically developed satellite is scheduled for launch in 2026 with the support of NASA and COSPAR (Committee on Space Research), marking a milestone in national technological advancement, Chief Scientist of the Republic of Cyprus and Chairman of the Research and Innovation Foundation, Demetris Skourides, has said.

Skourides, who officially opened the 6th COSPAR Symposium, taking place in Nicosia between 3-7 November 2025 under the theme ‘Space Exploration 2025: Humanity’s Challenges and Celestial Solutions.’, said that Cyprus’s National Space Strategy forms part of the Government’s long-term Vision 2035, a plan to build a resilient, knowledge-based, and innovation-driven economy.

The event is held under the auspices of the Office of the Chief Scientist and with the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) as Grand National Sponsor, bringing together leading scientists, policymakers, and industry representatives from more than 45 countries and 90 organisations, including NASA, ESA, JAXA, ISRO, and other major space agencies.

The symposium was inaugurated by George Danos, President of Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO) in the presence of five ambassadors, more than forty senior global delegates, two astronauts, and leading figures from global space agencies and industry including Niklas Hedman, COSPAR’s new General Counsel and former Acting Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), John G. Reed, Chief Rocket Scientist at United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Jean-Yves Le Gall, former CEO of Arianespace.

According to a press release issued today by the Chief Scientist, in his address, Skourides said that hosting one of the world’s most significant gatherings for space research ‘is not a coincidence but a validation of Cyprus’s strategic vision and its determination to become a regional hub for research, innovation, and high technology.’

He referred to the establishment of the Cyprus Space Research and Innovation Centre (C-SpaRC) as a landmark in the country’s scientific development. The pound 2.5 million national infrastructure, funded by RIF, is led by the Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO) in collaboration with NASA’s TRISH, Lockheed Martin, the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory, and leading Cypriot research institutions.

He also highlighted Cyprus’s Associate Membership in the European Space Agency (ESA), achieved in 2023, and its signing of the Artemis Accords with NASA in 2024, as major milestones strengthening Cyprus’s participation in global exploration and cooperation.

In her opening remarks, Professor Pascale Ehrenfreund, President of COSPAR, noted that the event marks the beginning of ‘a truly exciting week of scientific exchange,’ offering a platform to advance dialogue and collaboration in space science and technology. Professor Ehrenfreund also announced that COSPAR will soon issue a formal statement on the vital role of space-based observation in advancing international climate research, ahead of the forthcoming COP13 in Brazil.

Delivering an address on behalf of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Georgios Komodromos, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, underlined Cyprus’s rapid progress in developing its national space ecosystem, including the establishment of C-SpaRC, the country’s Associate Membership in ESA, and the upcoming EU Space Days, which Cyprus will host in 2026 during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Speaking on behalf of the Symposium’s Grand Sponsor, Dr. Eric Smith, Director of Optical Sensing and Exploitation at Lockheed Martin Space and Chair of the COSPAR Industry Relations Committee, reaffirmed Lockheed Martin’s long-standing partnership with COSPAR and praised the event for its role in fostering collaboration between industry and scientific research.

Dr. Costas Mavrides, Cypriot Member of the European Parliament, underlined that Cyprus can and should play a vital role in the Mediterranean, advocating for a European crisis management centre based in Cyprus to address climate change, natural disasters, and regional security challenges where space technology will have a central role to play.

Marios Tannousis, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Cyprus, underlined the country’s commitment to supporting the growth of the national space ecosystem through international partnerships and investment.

GUYANA-COURT-Venezuelan and Guyanese nationals on terrorism charges remanded into custody

Seven people, including the Venezuelan national who is alleged to have confessed to being the person who laid a bomb outside a gas station that killed six-year old Soraya Bourne and injury to four others late last month, has been denied bail and remanded into custody when they appeared in a magistrate court here on Wednesday.

Venezuelan Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo, 33, who is alleged to be the bomber, along with 44-year old Alexander Bettancourt, 33-year old and Johnny Boodram and 33-year-old Krystal La Cruz, appeared before Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty on a charge of terrorism, who remanded them into custody. The four were not required to plead to the indictable offences.

People accused of terrorism make first court appearance

The prosecution alleges that Poedemo on October 26, with intent to threaten the security and sovereignty of Guyana or to strike terror among its people, used an explosive device at the Mobil Fuel Station at Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, resulting in the death of the six-year-old child.

The court also heard that Boodram aided and abetted Poedemo with intent to commit the same offence.

Boodram’s defence lawyer, Nikel Puran, told the court that his client is a taxi driver and La Cruz is his customer whom he usually picks up from a bar which she operates and takes her home. The lawyer said Boodram had no knowledge of the circumstances leading to the offence.

They were all remanded into custody until November 12.

The other accused persons, Ramesh Pramdeo, 51, Wayne Corriea, 44 and 33-year-old Jennifer Rodriguez, have been charged with aiding and abetting Poedemo with intent to threaten the security and safety of Guyana to strike terror on the people by the use of an explosive substance by placing it at the gas station resulting in Bourne’s death.

Pramdeo, Correia and Rodriguez appeared remotely before Leonora Magistrate Alisha George because they allegedly committed the offence in East Bank Essequibo, which falls in the West Demerara Magisterial District, between October 24 and 29, 2025.

The Magistrate said a bail application would be considered then, but for now ‘this is a very serious offence and it has public safety issues’.

Defence Lawyer Bernard Da Silva made an unsuccessful bail application for Pramdeo. They were remanded to prison until November 24.

Da Silva told the court that Correia had Pramdeo requesting that he transport two Venezuelan gold miners.

The lawyer said that he picked up the men at Parika and transported them to a hotel at Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara.

He said that Pramdeo was not the taxi driver who took them to Georgetown, was nowhere near the explosion, had no knowledge of the intent, no agreement, was not present and did not see the explosive device.

There was a heavy police presence at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, with the accused arriving in three vehicles as armed members of the Guyana Police Force patrolled the courthouse compound on foot and in vehicles.

Civilians were barred from standing near the entrance as the accused were escorted in and out and family members of the Venezuelan defendants waited across the street, in front of a nearby church.

Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond has said that the government will seek the death penalty for anyone convicted of terrorism under Guyana’s laws.

Cyprus has been geopolitically upgraded Defence Minister says at NEMESIS exercise

The geopolitical upgrade of the Republic of Cyprus and its geographical position have created a new environment of respect for our country, Minister of Defence Vassilis Palmas said on Wednesday.

In statements at the Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Larnaca, in the framework of the Multinational Exercise “NEMESIS 2025”, which took place within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Republic of Cyprus, the Minister congratulated the Center and the participating countries in the exercise, which first began in 2014.

“We continue to this day and we plan to continue for many more years,” he said.

Palmas noted that ‘in the modern era we live in, synergies, collaborations and alliances between member states of the international community are essential in order to be able to carry out missions, whether humanitarian, peaceful or even warlike.’

The Minister of Defence also stated that ‘the Center is perhaps the most popular one that has to do with the Ministry of Defence and the National Guard due to its long-standing action concerning humanitarian and peacekeeping missions”.

Meanwhile, addressing the NEMESIS 2025 exercise, Palmas said that the Republic of Cyprus, is making every effort to continuously improve and upgrade the procedures, when confronting emergencies such as terrorist attacks, Search and Rescue operations, and incidents of marine pollution within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone, considering always the obligations deriving from the International Laws and UNCLOS.

“The effectiveness of all the agencies involved in the broader area of maritime safety is not a one-time goal to be achieved. Rather, this is a process to be pursued continuously and within that framework lies the importance of this exercise. NEMESIS 2025, like every large-scale exercise, is a great opportunity to extract valuable lessons that will enhance capabilities and update the procedures and I have no doubt that all participants will have the opportunity to take their professionalism a step further” he said.

Moreover, the Minister noted that exploitation activities in the Exclusive Economic Zone provide not only benefits, but also responsibilities and assured that the Republic of Cyprus is committed to fulfilling them. In doing so, through initiatives like the exercise NEMESIS, is actively pursuing the maximization of cooperation and coordination of all the involved parties, both from public and private sector, based on the international law and the European Union Directives, he continued.

The participating countries in the exercise are Egypt, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, United Kingdom and United States of America.

“Thank you for your participation with assets and personnel. Your longstanding support is very important not only for us, but also for the overall stability in the area in benefit and prosperity of all the countries in the region” he concluded.

CRICKET-NZL/WIS-RESULT West Indies defeat New Zealand by 7 runs – 1st T20I

West Indies defeated New Zealand by seven runs in the first T20 International here at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

Scores:

WEST INDIES 164-6 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 53, Rovman Powell 33, Roston Chase 28; Jacob Duffy 2-19, Zak Foulkes 2-35).

NEW ZEALAND 157-9 in 20 overs (Mitchell Santner 55 not out, Tim Robinson 27, Rachin Ravindra 21; Roston Chase 3-26, Jayden Seales 3-32),

Students and teachers who were stranded in Tanzania return to Cyprus

Fourteen students and two teachers who were stranded in Tanzania due to political unrest in the country returned to Cyprus on Wednesday morning.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that “the process of returning the 14 students and two teachers who accompanied them from Kilwa, Tanzania, to Cyprus was successfully completed this morning, following the turmoil that arose in the African country.”

“The other two escorts are returning to Greece,” it is added.

According to the Ministry, “the students and their escorts initially traveled by air to Zanzibar, where they spent the night, on a flight arranged for this purpose, and then arrived safely in Larnaca via Dubai this morning.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates its recommendation to all Cypriot citizens “to remain actively informed when traveling to countries where crises and emergencies arise, to consult the relevant travel advisories, and to contact the local diplomatic missions.”

The repatriation operation was carried out by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Cypriot High Commission in Nairobi, and the National Crisis Management Center, in close cooperation with the EU Delegation in Dar es Salaam.

ANTIGUA-MIGRATION-Antigua and Barbuda denies elevated travel advisory from Canada

The Antigua and Barbuda government Wednesday said it ‘ categorically rejects’ an article in an online publication indicating that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country is among countries under a heightened Canadian travel warning.

‘Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean’s most peaceful democracies. The country is politically stable, constitution-anchored, and committed to free and fair elections observed by international bodies,’ said Antigua and Barbuda’s non-resident High Commissioner to Canada, Sir Ronald Sanders.

He said that Global Affairs Canada’s official advisory for Antigua and Barbuda remains ‘Take normal security precautions,’ the lowest advisory level. He said there has been no upgrade and no new risk designation.

‘ Our people speak freely; dissent is lawful; the courts stand independent,’ said Sir Ronald, who is also the country’s ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS).

He said regional indicators from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the World Bank, Antigua and Barbuda’s rate of serious crime remains well below the Caribbean average. ‘Violent incidents are rare, and our islands continue to enjoy a reputation for safety and tranquility among international visitors. Canadians know this in practice: many visit year after year, and many more have made Antigua their second home.

‘Our welcoming people live by reputation and reality; we refuse to let careless repots blur either. We have called on Travel and Tour World to correct the record and to properly cite official Canadian sources,’ Sir Ronald said.

The diplomat said Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Canadians as friends, investors, and family ‘to a safe, vibrant, and law-abiding nation that keeps faith with its Constitution and with the travellers who honour our shores’.

The Antigua and Barbuda government Wednesday said it ‘ categorically rejects’ an article in an online publication indicating that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country is among countries under a heightened Canadian travel warning.

‘Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean’s most peaceful democracies. The country is politically stable, constitution-anchored, and committed to free and fair elections observed by international bodies,’ said Antigua and Barbuda’s non-resident High Commissioner to Canada, Sir Ronald Sanders.

He said that Global Affairs Canada’s official advisory for Antigua and Barbuda remains ‘Take normal security precautions,’ the lowest advisory level. He said there has been no upgrade and no new risk designation.

‘ Our people speak freely; dissent is lawful; the courts stand independent,’ said Sir Ronald, who is also the country’s ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS).

He said regional indicators from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the World Bank, Antigua and Barbuda’s rate of serious crime remains well below the Caribbean average. ‘Violent incidents are rare, and our islands continue to enjoy a reputation for safety and tranquility among international visitors. Canadians know this in practice: many visit year after year, and many more have made Antigua their second home.

‘Our welcoming people live by reputation and reality; we refuse to let careless repots blur either. We have called on Travel and Tour World to correct the record and to properly cite official Canadian sources,’ Sir Ronald said.

The diplomat said Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Canadians as friends, investors, and family ‘to a safe, vibrant, and law-abiding nation that keeps faith with its Constitution and with the travellers who honour our shores’.

The Antigua and Barbuda government Wednesday said it ‘ categorically rejects’ an article in an online publication indicating that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country is among countries under a heightened Canadian travel warning.

‘Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean’s most peaceful democracies. The country is politically stable, constitution-anchored, and committed to free and fair elections observed by international bodies,’ said Antigua and Barbuda’s non-resident High Commissioner to Canada, Sir Ronald Sanders.

He said that Global Affairs Canada’s official advisory for Antigua and Barbuda remains ‘Take normal security precautions,’ the lowest advisory level. He said there has been no upgrade and no new risk designation.

‘ Our people speak freely; dissent is lawful; the courts stand independent,’ said Sir Ronald, who is also the country’s ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS).

He said regional indicators from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the World Bank, Antigua and Barbuda’s rate of serious crime remains well below the Caribbean average. ‘Violent incidents are rare, and our islands continue to enjoy a reputation for safety and tranquility among international visitors. Canadians know this in practice: many visit year after year, and many more have made Antigua their second home.

‘Our welcoming people live by reputation and reality; we refuse to let careless repots blur either. We have called on Travel and Tour World to correct the record and to properly cite official Canadian sources,’ Sir Ronald said.

The diplomat said Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Canadians as friends, investors, and family ‘to a safe, vibrant, and law-abiding nation that keeps faith with its Constitution and with the travellers who honour our shores’.

EU fully backs UN-led process for Cyprus, Turkey remains key partner, Kallas says

The European Union fully backs the UN-led process for Cyprus and the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his personal envoy, EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas told the press Wednesday, following a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos in Nicosia.

This is her first official visit to Cyprus, in view of the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU, the first half of 2026.

At a joint press conference with Kombos, Kallas also spoke about the EU-Turkey relations, as well as of the role of Cyprus as a neighboring EU member-state to the Middle East. She also mentioned that the meeting focused on Ukraine, as well, reaffirming that it ‘remains high on our agenda so long as the Russian war against Ukraine shows no signs of ending.’

Regarding the Cyprus problem, Kallas said that it is ‘a core matter for the European Union-Turkey relations and for the stability and security of the Eastern Mediterranean.’

She reaffirmed EU’s support in UN-led process for the resumption of discussions for a solution, adding that ‘it is neither Turkey nor the EU that will govern the island of Cyprus in the future. It is the people of Cyprus, the Greek and Turkish Cypriots, who must live together and find solutions to common challenges’.

She also went on to say that ‘both communities need a sustainable solution.’

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

In 2025 the Secretary-General hosted two informal meetings on Cyprus, in March in Geneva and in July in New York, while a tripartite meeting with the Cyprus leaders was also held in late September, at the end of the UN General Assembly High Level Week. An informal meeting in broader format is expected later this year.

María Angela Holguín, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is tasked to engage with the parties, while former European Commissioner Johannes Hahn, designated by the Commission as Special Envoy for Cyprus, is also expected to contribute to the settlement process, in cooperation with Holguín.

‘We have positive engagement with Turkey in areas of common interest,’ Kallas noted, referring to a broader discussion on Turkey during the meeting, and added that ‘Turkey remains a key partner of the European Union and a significant regional actor.’

‘I am confident that our cooperation will continue to strengthen Europe’s stability and security,’ she continued, noting that Turkey’s EU accession process has frozen since 2018, due to the deterioration of democratic standards, judicial independence, and fundamental rights.

Responding to a press question on whether Turkey could be a part of EU’s defense architecture, especially after the issues raised in European Commission’s latest report on Turkey, she noted that ‘we are trying to boost our own defense industry, but at the same time all the member states are increasing their spending and when the defense industry is not ready that means also that some of the components have to be procured outside.’

‘We also have worries with the way Turkey is operating in many of the fields that the concerns of member states have, so these are all taken into account,’ she pointed out.

Regarding the situation in the Middle East, Kallas noted that ‘Cyprus is the closest we can get to Gaza from the European Union, just an hour away’ and added that ‘the stability of Gaza is essential to Cyprus as well as it is for Europe.’

She mentioned that the EU is still the main financial contributor in aid delivery and thanked Cyprus for its efforts in delivering aid through the maritime corridor.

‘This is a clear example how the European Union and the member states can build on each other’s added value,’ she said. ‘The EU has also been a consistent supporter of the Palestinian Authority, keeping the prospect of a two-state solution alive,’ Kallas added.

She also spoke of EU’s involvement in preparations for reconstruction in Gaza. Responding to a question on whether the EU has adopted Cyprus’ proposal on the basis of Trump’s plan for Gaza, Kallas said that immediately after Trump’s plan was presented, the Commission worked on it to put in EU’s contribution in terms of humanitarian aid. She said that they are looking into whether the mandate of the two EU missions in the area can be extended.

‘A lot of points were really the same as Cyprus plan, so this is also something that we have been discussing and seeing what more can we do,’ Kallas said. She stressed that the main question now is having a sustainable peace and the day after.

The discussion also included the topic of Syria, Kallas said. ‘The coming year will be important to consolidate support to the country and ensure stability in the region. I know that this is also an important topic for Cyprus, and I will ensure it stays high on the agenda, including for our discussions among the foreign ministers,’ she noted.

In regards with Ukraine, she said that ‘the European Union is already Ukraine’s largest supporter’ and added that ‘to push Russia back, Europe must continue to step up.’ She explained that the new sanctions package adopted just two weeks ago targets key sectors, including energy, finance, the military, industrial base.

Kombos on his part said that the meeting focused on the priorities as regards the EU Cyprus Presidency in 2026, which is going to be a result of close coordination with the EU institutions, as he noted.

On Ukraine, he said ‘we expressed, once again, our full solidarity and our steadfast support in our unwavering commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine’ and added that ‘this is a form of principle in our compass, and Cyprus’ own experience with the oppression, the repression, the continual occupation by Turkey for 51 years dictates this approach.’

He also said that the accession path is also a very strong component for the resilience and future security of Ukraine. ‘Your approach in relation to Ukraine is an example of leadership, and it’s a leadership that cannot and does not have a double standard,’ Kombos said, addressing Kallas.

Regarding the accession of Turkey, Kombos said that ‘the EU-Turkey relation is full of potential’ and that ‘there are so many choices that have been created and available to Turkey.’

‘The choices exist, but Turkey needs to make a decision’ he continued, explaining that ‘the decision of Turkey needs to make in relation to its future relationship with the EU, is one that passes necessarily through Cyprus.’ Kombos noted that this relates to yesterday’s report in relation to EU’s enlargement.

‘We will continue our approach in relation to negotiations on the basis of the UN Security Council. This is the only possible basis for the resolution of the Cyprus,’ he said.

FM also referred to the issue of the illegal arrest, last July, of five Greek Cypriots by the illegal regime in the areas of Cyprus occupied by Turkey. ‘We are asking for EU support in applying the necessary pressure,’ he said.

Five Greek Cypriots were ‘arrested’ on July 19 in the Turkish-occupied village of Trikomo, in the northern part of Cyprus, while visiting their properties and were charged with ‘illegal entry’ and other charges. Although released from detention, they continue to be subjected to multiple ‘court sessions’, even as some were reported to suffer from health issues.

Some charges have been dropped but they are not allowed to leave the island’s Turkish-occupied areas pending ‘trial’. The Cyprus government and the European Parliament condemned the arrests, calling for the immediate release of the five, while a European Commission spokesperson said the EU ‘does not recognise the self-proclaimed state in the northern part of Cyprus and its so-called judicial system.’

In relation to Gaza, Kombos said that ‘we need to work to make this plan realistic and secure’ adding that ‘the EU needs to be actively involved in this, needs to be present, and the EU should not be seen as merely a financier of all that.’

Cyprus has its own approach, based on its own capacities and capabilities, in relation to the humanitarian front, in relation to reconstruction, and also in relation to security,’ he continued.

‘Our contacts, network, and efforts are at the disposal of the European Union to carry out this plan personally,’ he noted and mentioned that two days ago, a vessel from Cyprus with 1000 tons of aid or Gaza reached Ashdod port.

‘Finally, in relation to Syria, we agree that we need to do a lot more to ensure the recovery and support the recovery for the Syrian people,’ Kombos concluded, reaffirming Cyprus’ willingness to contribute in every way possible.

Visitors’ Book

—-

Kallas wrote in her note in the visitors’ book at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that Cyprus takes over the Council Presidency at a crucial time for Europe. ‘We are counting on you to keep us moving forward as a Union, while we tackle urgent challenges,’ she wrote. ‘Looking forward to working together. We have a lot to do,’ she wrote.

UNITED STATES-AID-US legislators appeal for more aid for hurricane-ravaged Caribbean

The Trump administration says it is providing an initial US$24 million in ’emergency, life-saving assistance’ for Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, and ‘the people of Cuba’ to assist those affected by the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa when it passed through the region last week.

The aid announcement comes as several US lawmakers, including US Senate Democratic Leader, Charles ‘Chuck’ Schumer, appealed to the administration to do much more to assist hurricane-ravaged Caribbean countries.

The State Department said that the funding will be used to provide shelter, water, sanitation, hygiene, food assistance, and emergency healthcare. It said the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in Jamaica continues to assess the situation and determine future needs.

Since the Category 5 hurricane hit the Caribbean countries, the State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio has authorsed US$12 million for assistance in Jamaica, US$8.5 million in assistance in Haiti, thee million US dollars for ‘the people of Cuba’, and US$500,000 for assistance in the Bahamas.

The State Department said the category 5 storm had caused widespread damage, hospital evacuations, and flooding across the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba and the Turks and Caicos Islands, where fatalities were reported. The storm’s path also includes The Bahamas and Bermuda.

It said President Trump had authorised ‘an immediate US response, directing the Department of State to mobilize support for affected communities.

‘Within hours, Secretary Rubio deployed a regional Disaster Assistance Response Team, including urban search-and-rescue teams, to assess needs and provide search and recovery assistance,’ it said, stating that it is collaborating with United Nations agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and host governments to deliver food, water, medical supplies, hygiene kits, temporary shelter, and search and rescue support.

But, Schumer said he had sent a letter to Rubio, stating that ‘officials in the Caribbean have reported early assessments of damage to be widespread, where homes and buildings have collapsed, roadways have been demolished, parishes are completely underwater and currently 77 per cent of Jamaica remains without power.

‘Concerted recovery efforts and humanitarian assistance are imperative in the coming days to save lives and sustain populations in the short term as Jamaica and the wider Caribbean begin reconstruction,’ he wrote in the letter.

‘We welcome the State Department’s announcement of available warehouses from which lifesaving aid can be distributed as well as on the creation of a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in the region.

‘This is an important first step, but critical and urgent action is needed to ensure resources are effectively and efficiently mobilised to victims who need it in the immediate and longer-term aftermath of this disaster.’

Schumer said that given that this is the first major disaster in the Caribbean since the closure of USAID ‘which held the expertise and capacity to quickly, efficiently and meaningful respond to these exact scenarios, we write with the following key questions.

‘How many personnel has the Department mobilized as part of the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), including those from the Urban Search and Resue team? Where are they stationed and how long will they be there? What direction and mandate have the DART been given? Who is responsible for leading and coordinating hurricane response for the US Government?

‘How is the Department coordinating with the Department of Defense’s Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capacities to mobilize assets and support in region, including the increased assets recently mobilized in the region? How is the State Department mobilizing health experts, including those at the Department of Defense and Center for Disease Control, to respond to health needs to affected countries?

‘Given the millions of dollars of humanitarian aid that the administration has refused to spend, how does the administration plan to mobilize humanitarian funding quickly to partners on the ground responding to immediate needs?’

Meanwhile, US Congressman Ritchie Torres has led a coalition of legislators in the Bronx, New York in appealing to the Trump administration to immediately deploy emergency aid and support to Jamaica.

In a letter, the legislators called on Rubio to mobilise US federal resources to assist Jamaica in the aftermath of what they described as ‘one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes on record.’

‘As Bronx elected officials, who represent large Jamaican populations, we write to urge you to provide immediate emergency assistance to Jamaica after being devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The United States and Jamaica have deep economic and cultural ties, and, as friendly neighbors, we must stand with them in their time of need.

‘As you know, Hurricane Melissa is recorded to be one of the top five most powerful hurricanes within the Atlantic Ocean, as it topped wind speeds of 185 mph and caused severe damaged throughout Jamaica.

‘It is currently unclear what the death toll from Hurricane Melissa is; and, because of significant flooding, road closures, downed trees, and landslides, the total may not be known for some time,’ the letter notes.

The legislators wrote that it is paramount that the State Department work ‘with our Jamaican partners to coordinate relief effort, and to send as many emergency staff as possible to Jamaica to assist in surveying the damage and reconnecting communities.

‘Hurricane Melissa blanketed all of Jamaica, and the images coming out are heartbreaking. Clearly, emergency aid is needed to rebuild electrical grid, health care services, schools, and homes to name a few.’

The legislators said they were ‘deeply concerned that the damage from Hurricane Melissa will leave Jamaica with contaminated water, which may lead to disease outbreaks and mental health care issues stemming from the destruction.

‘That is why, in addition to providing aid to rebuild hard infrastructure, we urge you to provide Jamaica with the most basic of assistance: food, clean water, fresh clothing, shelter and mental health care services.

‘We strongly urge you to mobilise your department to provide all necessary staff and aid to help those throughout Jamaica. As Hurricane Melissa is one of the top five most powerful hurricanes to occur in the Atlantic Ocean, time is of the essence to help those in need.’

Meantime, New York State Assemblyman Brian Cunningham, the son of Jamaican immigrants, who represents the 43rd Assembly District in Brooklyn, New York, said that his office is working closely with the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) to help coordinate relief efforts and deliver much-needed supplies directly to those impacted on the ground.

‘As the son of Jamaican immigrants, I have always carried the island in my heart. Like so many in our Central Brooklyn community, my roots, my family, and my story are deeply tied to Jamaica,’ said Cunningham in a message to constituents.

‘Watching the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa has been both heartbreaking and personal,’ he added, stating that the government of Jamaica has shared a list of urgent needs.

Bichotte Hermelyn, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, who represents the 42nd Assembly District in Brooklyn, said her office is launching an Emergency Relief Drive to collect urgently needed supplies that will be shipped directly to Jamaica.

She told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that the drive will focus on collecting non perishable items.

‘In times of crisis, we are reminded of the strength and compassion that define our community.Together, we can extend a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in Jamaica as they begin this long road to recovery.

‘My heart and prayers are also with the families across Cuba and Haiti, who are facing tremendous challenges,’ she added.