President says effort began to implement initiative for EU active involvement The active involvement of the EU, both in breaking the deadlock and in resolving the Cyprus issue, is of imperative importance, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday, adding that it is with restrained optimism that we see that the initiative we have undertaken is receiving international recognition and that an effort has begun for its implementation. President announces FM's meeting with UNSG 'to convey messages' Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday that Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, will meet with the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in order to convey some messages to him. The President also noted that he has written to Guterres. Kombos, will meet with the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, on July 11 in New York, Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, has told CNA. He also noted that in a letter to Antonio Guterres, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, elaborates on his proposal for a more active involvement of the EU in efforts to lift the deadlock and resume talks for a Cyprus settlement and the benefits that may come up from this, calling once again on the UN to appoint a special envoy. Turkey's narrative for a two-state solution cannot be discussed, Minister says The Turkish narrative for a two-state solution cannot be part of any discussion in a new round of negotiations on the Cyprus issue, the Minister of Defence, Michalis Giorgallas said on Sunday, addressing a memorial service for fallen soldiers during the 1974 Turkish invasion. Monday 03 July 2023 Stewart to depart for the US, will brief SC next week The UN Secretary-General's Special Representative and head of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), Colin Stewart, departs for the US on Monday where he is expected to brief the UN Security Council on July 12 about the situation regarding the Cyprus problem and UNFICYP. House President highlights Cyprus issue during her official visit in London The Cyprus issue, common global challenges and matters relating to the Cypriot diaspora in the UK were the topics on the agenda of the meetings the President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou has been having during the first full day of her official visit to London. Demetriou was welcomed to the Houses of Parliament by the Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle on Monday morning. Cypriot universities participate in European Alliances funded by the EU Seven new European university alliances joint in the Erasmus+ European Universities initiative which provides support to alliances of higher education institutions in the EU. ?he number of alliances increased to 50 involving more than 430 higher education institutions in 35 countries, among which the University of Nicosia and Cyprus University of Technology. Turnover value in retail trade grows faster than volume in May The turnover value index in retail trade in May continued to exceed the trade volume index, reflecting the impact of price hikes in the market. According to data released by the Cyprus Statistical Service (Cystat), the Turnover Value Index of Retail Trade for May 2023 increased by 8.7% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year, whereas the annual rise in the Turnover Volume Index of Retail Trade was limited to 6.1% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year. Central bank to assume part of legal costs for lawsuits tabled by bondholders The Central Bank of Cyprus announced it will accept requests for reduced legal costs in lawsuits filed by bondholders of Bank of Cyprus or Laiki Bank, who saw their bonds wiped out during the 2013 financial crisis. According to a press release issued by the CBC, the requests will concern lawsuits which have been submitted against the CBC and are about to be withdrawn, lawsuits, which have already been withdrawn and the payment of legal costs in favor of the CBC is pending, as well as lawsuits for which the Courts have ruled in favour of the CBC while a decision on legal costs in favour of the CBC is pending. Tuesday 04 July 2023 Important step forward would be an agreement on a UN envoy, UNSG says An important step forward would be an agreement with the sides on an appointment of a United Nations envoy, who could explore ways to reach common ground towards resuming negotiations for a lasting settlement in Cyprus, the UN Secretary General says in his Report on his mission of good offices in Cyprus. Meanwhile, in his Report on the UNFICYP, he urges the leaders to send a clear signal that "this time things will be different". ?? acceptance of faits accomplis or partition in Cyprus, Greek and Cypriot FM say Cyprus' Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, and his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis, met in Nicosia, to discuss Cyprus, bilateral and regional developments. Cyprus is Gerapetritis' first official visit abroad since taking office. In statements after the meeting the Foreign Ministers said that no faits accomplis can be accepted in Cyprus, nor any solutions favouring partition on the island. Gerapetritis said that finding a fair solution to the Cyprus problem is Greece's "top national priority." Greece and Cyprus are pillars of stability in the region, President says Greece and Cyprus are pillars of stability in the region, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Tuesday during his meeting at the Presidential Palace with Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis. The interests of the two countries should be promoted so that the Cyprus problem receives a just and viable solution, Gerapetritis said. FM: The aim of meeting Guterres is to create the conditions for negotiations Cyprus Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, has said that the aim of the meeting he will have with the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, on July 11, in New York, is to create the conditions for the resumption of the negotiations on the Cyprus problem. In statements after a meeting, he had in Nicosia with his Greek counterpart, Giorgos Gerapetritis, and responding to a question about his forthcoming meeting with Guterres, the Foreign Minister said that he will present his approach as regards ways to resume the talks. We are following Turkish objections related to Cyprus in NATO, FM says Cyprus is following the issue related to Turkey's claim for deleting the Republic of Cyprus name from NATO operational maps, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos has said. In statements after his meeting on Tuesday with his Greek counterpart, Giorgos Gerapetritis, Kombos said that "this is an issue we have been following from the first moment, given the restrictions due to the fact that the Republic of Cyprus is not a NATO member." We must be alert in order to tackle Turkey's provocations, House President says It is imperative that we are alert, act in a timely, composed and coordinated way in order to fend off Turkey's provocations, its efforts to get the occupied part Cyprus recognised (as a state) and legitimise the invasion and occupation, House President, Annita Demetriou said on Tuesday evening in London, addressing a dinner hosted by the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK. Addressing the guests, comprised by various generations of UK Cypriots, Demetriou added that in her role as President of the Cypriot House of Representatives she has delivered demarches to counterparts and to international organisations highlighting and condemning Turkey's illegal actions. Negotiator to meet UN Secretariat officials and UNSC members in New York The negotiator of the Greek Cypriot side, Menelaos Menelaou, leaves on Tuesday for New York, where he will hold this week meetings with officials of the UN Secretariat and representatives of UN Security Council member states, the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) has learned. Menelaou will hold his meetings in view of the release of the UNSG's reports on his good offices mission and the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) and the briefing of the UN Security Council by the UNSG's Special Representative in Cyprus, Colin Stewart. Cyprus' bank liquidity and capitalisation above EU average, says EBA president The liquidity and capitalisation of the Cypriot banking system is above the European Union average, said the President of the European Banking Authority Jose Manuel Campa on Tuesday, following his meeting with the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace, in the presence of the Governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus Constantinos Herodotou. In his statements after the meeting, Herodotou thanked the President of the European Banking Authority for accepting the invitation to visit Cyprus and added that there is close cooperation between the Authority and the Central Bank of Cyprus. Retail and wholesale trade turnover rose by 15.2% at pound 14.6 billion in 2021 The turnover in retail and wholesale trade in Cyprus amounted to pound 14.6 billion in 2021 marking an increase of 15.2% compared with the corresponding period of 2020, a year marked by strict Covid-19 restrictions. Wednesday 05 July 2023 PACE President pays official visit to Cyprus President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Tiny Kox pays an official visit to Cyprus, 5-7 of July, at the invitation of President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou. House President urges British MPs to support Cyprus The President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou has highlighted the 'pivotal' role the UK can play in facilitating the resumption of negotiations on a settlement to the long-standing Cyprus issue. Demetriou was addressing MPs and officials in London, during a reception hosted by the Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle at the British parliament on Wednesday afternoon. EU Commission official has migration management talks in Cyprus Deputy Director General of the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs of the European Commission, Beate Gminder, paid a visit to Cyprus between 5 and 7 July to discuss aspects of migration management. New loan contracts spike in May due to loan renegotiations amid rising rates Total new loans in May spiked to pound 1,07 billion, more than doubled from the previous month due renegotiated loans for which new contracts were signed, while fresh new credit rose to pound 536.5 million. According to data published by the Central Bank of Cyprus, total pure new loans amounted to pound 556.8 million compared with pound 202 million in the previous month. EC recommends Cyprus to strengthen accountability of Prosecution Service The European Commission has stressed the need for Cyprus to strengthen the independence and the accountability of the Prosecution Service. In its Rule of Law Report 2023, the European Commission recommends Cyprus to "strengthen the independence and the accountability of the Prosecution Service, including by providing for a possibility of review of the decision of the Attorney General not to prosecute or to discontinue proceedings, taking into account European standards on independence and autonomy of the prosecution". House prices up by 5.9% in Q1 2023 House Price Index (HPI) recorded a 5.9% increase for the first quarter of 2023, marking its fifth consecutive quarterly growth compared to the same period in 2022, according to a preliminary estimate by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Specifically, the Housing Price Index (HPI) for the first quarter of 2023 stands at 110.14 units. This marks the fifth consecutive quarterly increase of the Index on an annual basis. Industrial Sector Turnover surges with over 7% increase in April 2023 The expansion of operations in the Manufacturing, Mining, Quarrying, and Electricity Supply sectors has led to a substantial increase of more than 7% in the turnover of the industrial sector in April 2023, according to data released on Wednesday by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Specifically, in April 2023, the Industrial Turnover Index reached 175.3 units (base year 2015=100), marking a 7.2% increase compared to April 2022. Thursday 06 July 2023 UNSG's Deputy Spokesman tells CNA Guterres will maintain dialogue with two sides The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, is positive for further meetings of the two sides at the United Nations and in Cyprus, his Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). At the same time, he praised the 'face to face' meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, saying that it is a very positive step for their further cooperation, while he encouraged the two sides to find acceptable ways of dialogue, as this way they will manage to find a mutually acceptable path. Greece' Defence Minister Dendias begins visit to Cyprus Newly-appointed Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias begins his first official visit to Cyprus on Thursday, July 6. During his visit, Nikos Dendias is accompanied by the Chief of the General Staff of the Greek Armed Forces, General Konstantinos Floros. Greece and Cyprus declare themselves pillars of stability and security Greece and Cyprus are pillars of stability and security, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides and Greece's New National Defence Minister Nikos Dendias have said. At the same time, the President said, strengthening the deterrent power of the Republic of Cyprus is a priority for the government. Cyprus-US relations have reached new heights, President of the Republic says In recent years, Cyprus-US relations have reached new heights, and are no longer viewed, either by Washington or by Nicosia, solely through the lens of the Cyprus problem, said on Thursday evening the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, who attended the reception hosted by the US Ambassador on the occasion of the US Independence Day. At the same time, President Christodoulides asked Cyprus' partners around the world 'to share our vision and help us realize the dream of a reunified, free Cyprus'. Cyprus reunification must not be deferred any longer says US Ambassador Cyprus reunification must not be deferred any longer, US Ambassador Julie Fisher said, speaking Thursday evening during a reception for the 4th of July, in the presence of President Nikos Christodoulides. "Mr. President, we have heard your message on the fierce urgency of now regarding reunification. And we agree that this question must not be deferred any longer' she said. Cyprus' future should be a 'flourishing' one, PACE President says President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), Tiny Kox, said on Thursday that the future of Cyprus should be a 'flourishing', one. Kox, who is in Cyprus on an official visit, was received in the morning by House President, Annita Demetriou. PACE President calls on Turkey not to push any longer for a two-state solution Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) President Tiny Kox called the Turkish authorities not to push any longer for a so called two state solution, which goes against the UN resolutions and cannot lead to any viable solution and therefore goes against the interest of the Turkish Cypriote community of Cyprus. He said that a bi-communal and bi-zonal federation with political equality on the island of Cyprus is the only viable solution to the Cyprus problem. President stresses importance of shipping sector at meeting with Chamber's new Board President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides has stressed the importance that the Government places on the sector of Shipping, during a meeting held Thursday with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber. According to a press release by the Chamber, within the framework of the recent assumption of duties of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber's new Board of Directors, a courtesy meeting was held with the President of Cyprus Republic, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. The Spanish EU Presidency supports energy cooperation between Cyprus and Israel The Spanish EU Presidency supports energy cooperation between Cyprus and Israel, said the Spanish Ambassador to Cyprus Gabriel Ferrán Carrión on Thursday, during the presentation of the priorities of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU. He also said that Spain supports the proposal by the President of the Republic for an EU involvement in reinvigorating negotiations on the Cyprus issue. President of Parliament congratulates her Greek counterpart on his re-election President of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Cyprus, Annita Demetriou, sent on Thursday a congratulatory letter to Konstantinos Tasoulas, who was re-elected for a second consecutive term as President of the House of Representatives of the Hellenic Republic. Industry employment up by 4.4% in 2021 and output value up 15.1% Employment in the broad industrial sector increased by 4.4% in 2021 and the sector's output value, at current prices, by 15.1%, reaching pound 5.43 billion, while value added, at current prices, increased by 7.5% in the total of industry. According to the results of the Survey on Industrial Production 2021, published on Thursday by the Statistical Service, employment in the broad industrial sector increased in 2021 by 4.4% to 40.9 thousand people, compared to 39.1 thousand in 2020. Cyprus inflation at a 25-month low of 1.9% in June Inflation in Cyprus reached its lowest level in 25 months in June 2023 and stood at 1.9% on an annual basis, mainly due to the decline in food prices. According to the Statistical Service, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and thus inflation decreased in June 2023 by 0.34 points to 114.38 points, compared to 114.72 points in May 2023. Friday 07 July 2023 President hopeful of a positive outcome from Mitsotakis-Erdogan meeting Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, appeared hopeful of a positive outcome from the upcoming meeting between Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, at the sidelines of the NATO Summit set to take place next week in Lithuania. President Christodoulides was replying to journalists questions, on the sidelines of a working lunch at the headquarters of Cyprus Workers' Confederation trade union (SEK) on Friday. Lets talk about Cyprus solution instead of Cyprus problem, PACE President says Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) President Tiny Kox called on the leaderships in Cyprus to start talking how to go from the Cyprus problem to the Cyprus solution. He also pointed out that the main injustice in Cyprus is the Turkish occupation and that the solution should be based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality. Cyprus' President accepts invitation by Cox to address PACE Cyprus' President Nikos Christodoulides on Friday accepted an invitation by the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), Tiny Kox, to address the Parliamentary Assembly in Strasbourg. Kox, who was received in the morning by President Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace, extended an invitation to the President to address the PACE in the near future. UK reaffirms support for BBF in Cyprus and belief on potential talks resumption The UK Government has reaffirmed its support for a bizonal, bicommunal federation settlement to the Cyprus issue, via a written parliamentary response by the Minister for Europe Leo Docherty. 'The UK Government remains committed to supporting UN efforts to reach a Cyprus Settlement within the UN parameters based on the model of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality,' said Minister Docherty. Temporary protection in Cyprus for 16,710 people from Ukraine by May On 31 May 2023, over 4 million non-EU citizens who fled Ukraine as a consequence of the Russian invasion on 24 February 2022 had temporary protection statuses in EU countries, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. The number of people that have received temporary protection in Cyprus by the end of May was 16,710. Media pluralism faces challenges, report on Cyprus says Freedom of expression in Cyprus is in general terms respected, but media pluralism, however faces critical challenges and risks increased further in 2022, according to the Media Pluralism Country Report for Cyprus prepared for the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom at the European University Institute in Florence. The Media Pluralism Monitor (MPM) is a research tool that is designed to identify potential risks to media pluralism in the Member States of the European Union and in Candidate Countries. Saturday 08 July 2023 President urges UNSG in a letter to appoint UN envoy at the earliest opportunity Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, has urged the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, to heed the call of the Security Council and appoint a UN envoy to facilitate the resumption of the negotiations at the earliest opportunity. In a letter dated June 23, 2023, that he sent to Guterres, that the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) has seen, Christodoulides also referred to his proposal for an active EU involvement in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem recalling that Guterres himself is a European and a former member of the European Council. Attempt to legitimise Turkish invasion faits accomplis will fail, Minister says The attempt to legitimise the faits accomplis of Turkey's invasion will once again fail, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said on Friday, adding that we are proceeding steadfastly to action, because, as he explained, inaction on the Cyprus problem is neither a solution nor an option for the Christodoulides government. Greece will not accept a two-state solution in Cyprus, Greek FM says Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis stressed that the Cyprus problem constitutes a priority for Greek foreign policy, stressing that Greece will not accept a two-state solution. Speaking during his programmatic statements in the Hellenic Parliament on Saturday, June 8, Gerapetritis assured that Greece will continue to support the Republic of Cyprus, with the aim of finding a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem, on the basis of the UN resolutions. New government's responsiveness better but there are still issues, Auditor General tells CNA Auditor General of Cyprus Odysseas Michaelides, has told CNA that the communication between the Audit Office and the new government has significantly improved compared to the previous administration, pointing out however that there are still pending issues that need to be addressed. In an interview with Cyprus News Agency, Michaelides noted among other things, that there were still Presidential advisors who were appointed and did not meet the minimum criteria set, such as having a university degree. Sunday 09 July 2023 Letter from six members of Congress to Blinken on Turkey, Aegean and F-16 The creation of an oversight mechanism that will be able to ensure that Turkey will not use the new F-16 fighters to violate Greek sovereignty in the Aegean is proposed by six American Members of Congress. A letter, sent to Foreign Secretary Anthony Blinken, was signed by Congressmen Chris Papas, Gus Bilirakis, Frank Palone, John Sarbanis, Dina Titus, and Nicole Malliotakis. Monday 10 July 2023 Leaders of Cyprus and Greece exchange views ahead of NATO Summit President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, held a telephone conversation on Monday with the Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, during which they exchanged views ahead of the NATO Summit that will take place in Vilnius, Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letympiotis, said in a post on Twitter. Michel briefs Christodoulides on his discussion with Erdogan President of the European Council Charles Michel informed on Monday evening Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, about the content of his discussion earlier on Monday in Vilnius, with the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) has learned. More specifically, Michel briefed Christodoulides about what he discussed with Erdogan as regards the President's proposal for a more active EU involvement in efforts to resume negotiations on the Cyprus problem, as well as about EU-Turkey relations. President sees a positive response to efforts to resume peace talks There is a positive response to our effort on the Cyprus issue and everyone sees the added value of our proposal, President Nikos Christodoulides said Monday. Speaking to the press on the sidelines of an event at the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation, the President said that we are witnessing developments based on our own initiative and reiterated that what we want and what we will work for until the last moment, is to achieve the goal of resuming the stalled peace talks. Cyprus' FM begins contacts in New York Cyprus' Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos begins contacts in New York on Monday with the ahead of his meeting on Tuesday with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other UN Secretariat high ranking officials as part of Nicosia's bid to resume the UN-led reunification talks, six years after the last negotiating round in the Swiss resort of Crans Montana ended inconclusively. UNSG expresses full support for Stewart's efforts in Cyprus UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres met on Monday with his Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) Colin Stewart. According to a tweet from the UN in Cyprus, the UNSG expressed his full support for Stewart's efforts on the island. President committed to creating conditions for a thriving, sustainable economy The unequivocal commitment of the Government is to create the conditions for a thriving, sustainable economy, the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said Monday, in a recorded message at the New York - Eastern Mediterranean Business Summit by Economist titled "A new momentum for geopolitics and investment, Greece-Cyprus-Israel". He pointed once again the importance of the trilateral partnership and its expansion into the 3+1 format and also referred to the measures taken as regards the recent secondary sanctions by the US and the UK. The 3+1 Mechanism is the key to expanding the agenda, FM says The 3+1 Mechanism is the key to expanding the agenda and ensuring the acceleration of the cooperation process, Cyprus Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos said, noting that the American Foreign Minister was invited to the next tripartite of the ministers of Cyprus, Greece and Israel. The Minister of Foreign Affairs delivered a speech at the Economist Conference at the Economist conference, titled "Eastern Mediterranean Business Summit", held in New York. His veto on F-16s for Turkey is an unwritten rule, Menendez says "If the administration chooses to override the F-16 veto, I will oppose it and there will be consequences," Senator and Chairman of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Robert Menendez told reporters on the sidelines of the Eastern Mediterranean Business Summit in New York. "My veto on F-16s for Turkey is not something that is written in the law. CBC Governor participates in the Economist New York Summit The Governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC), Constantinos Herodotou, is in New York where he participates in The Economist New York - Eastern Mediterranean Business Summit, on Monday. The Summit focuses on the outlook on the Eastern Mediterranean geopolitical and economic landscape. Foreclosures once more at the Parliament's agenda on Monday Finance Minister Makis Keravnos presents to legislators on Monday a government package of seven proposals to address the issue of foreclosures. The package was submitted on Thursday in a bid to avert the approval of bill tabled by opposition left-wing party AKEL, co-signed by ELAM, the Greens, and members of government coalition parties DIPA and DIKO, providing for the right of a non-performing borrower to appeal to the Court requesting a suspension of a planned foreclosure in a bid to dispute the outstanding value of the loan as well possible excessive charges. Aim is to protect vulnerable and credibility of economy, President says Our aim is to protect those who are really in need as well as the credibility of the Cypriot economy, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said Monday evening. Invited by journalists to comment on the meeting he held earlier on Monday with MPs of the co-ruling parties on the issue of foreclosures and whether he has convinced them, he said that "the meeting was not to convince nor to be convinced". Green Line Regulation allows fuel for personal use, Commission spokesperson says Fuel is among those goods that can pass through the Green Line, given that it is for personal use, does not exceed 260 euros in value, and is contained either in the vehicle's petrol tank or in a portable container not bigger than ten litres, Commission spokesperson Stefan de Keersmaecker told the Cyprus News Agency. The spokesperson was responding to a question on what exactly is stipulated by the Green Line Regulation, given checks that are being conducted by the government of the Republic of Cyprus at the checkpoints from the occupied areas. We totally agree with EC's position, President says on fuel supply issue We totally agree with the European Commission's statement on Monday, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said commenting on the criticism regarding the supply of fuel from the Turkish occupied territories of Cyprus and the intention to impose a fine. Replying to questions by journalists, the President noted that there is an EU Regulation on the issue, adding that the Republic of Cyprus agrees with it and applies it. Cyprus' new policy for RES at Informal EU Council The actions of Cyprus to accelerate the granting of environmental permits and the new zoning policy for RES projects were outlined by Permanent Secretary for Environment, Costas Hatzipanagiotou, at the EU Informal Council of Ministers of the Environment, which took place on July 10 and 11 in Valladolid, Spain, in the context of the presidency of the Council of the EU. Significant 24.4% of annual new vehicle registrations increase in Q1 2023 A significant increase of 24.4% was recorded in vehicle registrations in the first half of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, while an increase of 22.4% was recorded in June 2023, compared to the same month last year. According to the Statistical Service, in June 2023, total motor vehicle registrations reached 4,094, an increase of 22.4% compared to 3,344 in June 2022. Eurostat: 5.6% of those at risk of poverty in Cyprus cannot afford proper meals Out of people that were at risk of poverty in Cyprus in 2022, 5.6% were unable to afford a meal containing meat, fish or a vegetarian equivalent every second day (19.7% in the EU), which was an increase compared to last year, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. This increase was also observed on the EU level, with the percentage reaching 19.7%, 2.2 percentage points (pp) higher than in 2021 (17.5%). Invest Cyprus, ANIMA Network announce establishment of EUROMED iHouse Invest Cyprus and ANIMA Investment Network announced on Monday the establishment of EUROMED iHouse, a service platform based in Nicosia, aiming to support the innovation and green transition of economic operators in the Euro-Mediterranean area. The project, an initiative by Invest Cyprus and the ANIMA network, is expected to launch its activities in early 2024. Tuesday 11 July 2023 FM informs the UNSG about Nicosia's positions on the resumption of talks Cyprus' Foreign Affairs Minister, Constantinos Kombos, met on Tuesday at the UN seat in New York with UN Secretary - General, Antonio Guterres, in the framework of efforts to create the conditions for resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus problem. Kombos informed Guterres about Nicosia's positions regarding efforts for the resumption of the under the UN auspices dialogue for a Cyprus settlement. The appointment of a special envoy as well as the next steps to be taken were on the agenda. Kombos and Guterres commented on the developments in the NATO summit in Vilnius and the upcoming meeting between Greek Premier Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. FM reiterates to DiCarlo commitment to a solution based on BBF Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, reiterated on Tuesday to the UN Under-Secretary General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo Cyprus' commitment to a solution based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as prescribed in the UN Security Council resolutions. Kombos met with DiCarlo at the UN headquarters in New York. In a post on Twitter, Kombos said that he had a productive discussion with DiCarlo on the Cyprus question. FM and UN official discuss about UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos and UN Under-Secretary General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix discussed on Tuesday in New York about the UN peacekeeping operation in Cyprus (UNFICYP). Kombos said in a post on his Twitter account that he had a comprehensive exchange of views with Lacroix on UNFICYP's mission contributing to maintaining peace and security on the island. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. A viable solution to Cyprus problem the only way, Education Minister says The only way is to find a viable and functional solution to the Cyprus problem, said the Minister of Education, Sports and Youth, Athena Michaelidou, who addressed the concert "Odes of Famagusta", organised by the Cyprus Research Centre (CRC) on Tuesday. EU could have a role in the Cyprus problem, says Spanish Ambassador The EU could have a role in the Cyprus problem and this role could be the implementation of the EU legislation after the solution in the areas in which the Republic does not exercise effective control, the Spanish Ambassador in Nicosia Gabriel Ferrán Carrión said Tuesday, pointing out that the Union could compliment the role of the UN. The Ambassador presented the priorities of the Spanish EU Presidency before the Foreign Committee of the Parliament. No one should violate territorial integrity says Chinese Foreign Ministry Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Mao Ning noted on Monday that no country should violate territorial integrity of another country. Ning was talking to a group of Cypriot journalists hosted in China by the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA) in cooperation with the People's Republic of China in Nicosia, in the presence of Cypriot Ambassador in Beijing, Martha Mavromati. Kassianidou new Deputy Minister of Culture following Hadjiyiannis' resignation President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides has appointed Dr Vasiliki Kassianidou as new Deputy Minister of Culture, following a letter of resignation he received from former Deputy Minister Michalis Hadjiyiannis. A press release by the Presidency says that the President thanked Hadjiyiannis for their long friendship and the excellent cooperation between them as well as for his contribution during the short time he served as Deputy Minister of Culture. Agricultural Payments Commissioner takes part in evaluation meeting in Brussels Agricultural Payments Commissioner Andreas Kyprianou, together with other CAPO officials, visited Brussels between 11 and 12 July, where they participated in a meeting on the monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the Strategic Plan and the work required from the Payment Organisations. According to a statement, a meeting was also held with Gatherine Geslain - Laneelle, Director of Strategy and Policy Analysis on CAP Strategic Plans, whose aim was to contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the new EU Common Agricultural Policy by providing the tools and technology for continuous upgrading and development of monitoring systems and proper farm management. EU and Cyprus population continue to increase The population of the European Union has increased again after two years of decrease according to data published by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU, on the occasion of World Population Day. Meanwhile, the population of Cyprus has continued to increase, as it has even during the pandemic. Real estate sales decelerate due to rates, inflation and construction cost The value of transactions in the real estate sector amounted to pound 1.52 billion in the second half of the year, with the market bearing the impact from the interest hikes, inflation and the increased construction cost. According to data compiled by the Council for Registration of Real Estate Agents, transactions in real estate amounted to pound 1.7 billion in the two previous quarters. Wednesday 12 July 2023 Security Council supports appointment of a UN envoy on Cyprus The United Nations Security Council expressed its full support for the proposal of the Secretary General for the appointment of an envoy on Cyprus. A Security Council press statement issued Wednesday by Council President Barbara Woodward (United Kingdom) says that the members of the SC welcomed the continuing personal engagement of the Secretary-General and that of his team, and reiterated support for his proposal for a United Nations envoy to lead further engagement as soon as possible. UNSG understands usefulness of our initiative, says Government Spokesperson The UN Secretary General fully understands the usefulness of the government's initiative on the Cyprus problem and has reiterated his own will for the resumption of negotiations, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday, commenting after the end of the Council of Ministers on the contacts Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos had in New York. Asked about the meeting the Foreign Minister had with Antonio Guterres in New York, the Government Spokesperson said it was a very constructive meeting, "the first meeting of the Government, after taking office, with the UN Secretary General, which followed the President's telephone communication with the Secretary General". Cyprus MFA concludes contacts in NYC Minister of Foreign Affairs Constantinos Kombos concluded his meetings in NY city with a meeting on Wednesday with Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs Miguel de Serpa Soares. "Rent vs Instalment" Scheme for distressed borrowers approved by Cabinet The Council of Ministers approved the "Rent vs Instalment Scheme", following the approval by the European Commission's Directorate General for Competition on July 6, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday, following the conclusion of the Council of Ministers. Johansson says comprehensive approach for migration is needed in the EU Only with a comprehensive approach can we manage migration safely and effectively, said Commissioner of Interior Affairs on Wednesday, during a discussion at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, about the need for action on search and rescue missions in the Mediterranean. She also noted, at her closing remarks, that member-states are jointly responsible and need to participate in rescue missions. EU immigration policy is not efficient, Cypriot MEPs say The European Parliament plenary in Strasbourg heard on Wednesday different approaches for addressing the migrant crisis in the EU, with the Commission proposing measures following the deadliest shipwreck in the Mediterranean on June 14 in Pylos. In her intervention at the plenary, MEP Eleni Stavrou (Group of the European People's Party, Democratic Rally Party DISY), said that Cyprus received 50% of the immigrants who arrived in Europe in 2022, adding that in the last six years, Cyprus has had the highest number of asylum applications, in relation to its population, with an increase of 490% since 2016, that is equal to 9% of its entire population. Construction prices up 6.5%, production rises 5.5% annually in Q1, 2023 The Output Prices Index in Construction for the first quarter of 2023 reached 133.02 units (base year 2015=100,00), recording an increase of 6.5%, compared to the same quarter of the previous year, according to data published by the Cyprus Statistical Service on Wednesday. For the same period, Index in Production in Construction went up 5.5%. Total beer deliveries drop by an annual 16.9% in June Total beer deliveries in Cyprus in June dropped by 16.9% year on year, with stronger beer exports offsetting the loses in beer deliveries to the local market. According to data published by Cystat, deliveries of beers produced from local breweries amounted to 4.51 million litres compared with 5.42 million litres in June last year. EU businesses struggle to fill information - communication technology vacancies EU companies face difficulties in hiring information and communication technology (ICT) experts according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. According to the same data, Cyprus is one of the countries where relatively fewer companies face the same issue (54.5% compared to 62.8% in the EU). Thursday 13 July 2023 President says his priority is to resume structured dialogue for a Cyprus solution Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, stressed on Thursday that his utmost priority is to exert every possible effort to break the current deadlock in the Cyprus problem, resume a structured and results-oriented dialogue, and create the conditions for a solution that will lead to the reunification of Cyprus, its institutions and its economy. Christodoulides, who was speaking at official ceremonies held at the Presidential Palace, during which he received the credentials of the new Ambassador of Iran, Alireza Salarian, and the new Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Mohamed Saif Helal Al Shehhi, also noted that the status quo with regards to the Cyprus problem is not a viable option, neither for Cyprus and all Cypriots, nor for any actor with an interest in the security and stability in our region. Nicosia welcomes UNSC support for a UNSG envoy and commitment to BBF solution The government of Cyprus has welcomed the support of the UN Security Council to the appointment of a UN Secretary General envoy, with a view to lead a renewed effort for returning to the peace talks. Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, also said that the government also welcomes the fact that the UN Security Council has reaffirmed, through its Press Statement on Cyprus issued on Wednesday, its commitment to an enduring, comprehensive and just settlement of the Cyprus problem, on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation as defined by its relevant resolutions. UNSG's UNFICYP and Good Services reports circulate as official documents The UN reports on the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNIFICYP) and the Good Services of the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres were released as official documents. The two reports cover the period from December 13, 2022 to June 12, 2023. In the UNFICYP report, the Secretary-General calls on the leaders of the two sides to take urgent action to address what he says is mistrust between them. Turkey must return to the negotiating table on Cyprus issue, Mitsotakis says Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Thursday that Turkey must return to the negotiating table on the Cyprus problem and abandon its rhetoric on a two-state solution, as this will lead to a new deadlock. In an interview with SKAI TV, following his meeting with the President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Vilnius, the Greek Premier expressed the view that Turkey is ready to make a shift in its foreign policy. Finance Minister in Brussels for Eurogroup and Ecofin meetings Finance Minister Makis Keravnos is in Brussels to attend the meeting of the Euro Area Finance Ministers (Eurogroup) and the EU Finance Ministers Council (Ecofin) on Thursday and Friday respectively. Eurozone fiscal policy for 2024 should not exacerbate inflationary pressures, Minister Keravnos said during Thursday's Eurogroup meeting in Brussels, according to a press release circulated by PIO. Cyprus to take part in EIB fund in support of Ukraine's reconstruction The reconstruction of Ukraine will require a large-scale coordinated and collective effort by all actors in the international community, Minister for Finance Makis Keravnos said, adding that Cyprus will take part in the effort having also been a victim of foreign invasion. Keravnos was speaking during a signature ceremony in which 16 countries expressed their intent to participate in the European Investment Bank's "EU for Ukraine Fund" (EU4U), which was held in Brussels on Thursday evening. House sales in Cyprus increase by 27.4% in 2022, decrease in 10 member states The number of housing transactions in Cyprus increased by 27.4% in 2022 compared to 2021, this being the largest increase recorded in 16 EU countries for which data is available, according to information released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU. In 2022, the number of housing transactions, when compared with 2021, decreased in the majority of the 16 EU countries for which data are available. De minimis state aid of pound 113 million was given in 2022, pound 71m so far in 2023 In 2022, de minimis state aid of pound 113 million was given as per the Central Registry for De Minimis Aids, Commissioner for State Aid Control, Stella Michaelidou, said in a meeting with competent authorities on Thursday. She added that so far in 2023, pound 71 million in state aid has been registered from 17 authorities. Of these, the Department of Labour registered the most, pound 32 million. CPT: Persons returned to their countries treated with respect by Cyprus police The Council of Europe's Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) has said that persons being returned to their countries were treated with respect by the Cypriot Police but highlighted the need for clear guidelines on the flight preparations and the boarding procedure. The remark is included in a report concerning the committee's ad hoc visits to Belgium carried out from 7 to 10 November and to Cyprus from 7 to 9 November 2022, in the context of a Frontex-supported return operation to the Democratic Republic of Congo, together with the responses of the Belgian and Cypriot authorities. Friday 14 July 2023 Messages from Turkey indicate need for mobilization in Cyprus issue, President says Messages are being conveyed from the Turkish side regarding the need for mobilization in the Cyprus conflict, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said Friday, noting, though, that the Greek Cypriot side will have to see their realization in action through the substantial resumption of the negotiating talks. Talking to journalists, before attending the reception of the Ambassador of France, for the country's national day, and asked if he had been informed about the contacts that European leaders had with the Turkish President, the President of the Republic said that he has been informed about most of the meetings, while he will also receive further information tomorrow by some European leaders. France, 'a valuable friend of Cyprus', President Christodoulides says Cyprus' President, Nikos Christodoulides, on Friday expressed the conviction that France would continue to be Cyprus' solid partner to efforts to reunify the country, for the benefit of all Cypriots. In his address at the reception held by the Ambassador of France on the occasion of the anniversary of Bastille Day, President Christodoulides noted that France, is 'a valuable friend of Cyprus'. Diplomatic moves by UN and EU for resumption of Cyprus talks Recognising Turkey's key role within the framework of efforts to break the current deadlock, the UN and the EU make moves as regards the Cyprus problem with a view to achieving the resumption of the negotiations. Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, appears to be leaving the door open as regards the resumption of the negotiating process, diplomatic sources have told CNA. New Deputy Minister sworn in New Deputy Culture Minister, Vasiliki Kassianidou, who was sworn in on Friday during a ceremony attended by President, Nikos Christodoulides, assured that she will work for the recognition and for securing the rights of artists and will do her utmost to give the opportunity to young people to come into contact with the cultural creativity of the country in all its various forms. On his part, President Christodoulides underlined, speaking during the ceremony, that the first concern of his government is "to encourage the cultural creativity", adding that "we consider that in order to achieve this it is necessary to support the artists, who face various difficulties, due to instability and insecurity, which constitute intrinsic characteristics of this profession." Cyprus referred to Court of Justice over engineers and architects qualifications The European Commission decided to refer Cyprus and Malta to the Court of Justice of the European Union for incorrect transposition of EU rules on the recognition of professional qualifications, it was announced in the context of the Commission's July infringement package. The case of Cyprus focuses on the recognition of professional qualifications for engineers and architects. Cyprus receives reasoned opinions for 5 infringement procedures from Commission Cyprus has received five reasoned opinions which are included in the European Commission's July package of infringement decisions. These include infringements on the recognition of professional qualifications, restrictions to construction and real estate services, consumer protection, accessibility of products and services for persons with disabilities and tax transparency rules. Saturday 15 July 2023 Cyprus honours all those who sacrificed their lives defending democracy during coup Saturday marks 49 years since the Greek military junta, then ruling Greece, and its Greek Cypriot collaborators- EOKA-B-, toppled the democratically elected President of Cyprus, the late Archbishop Makarios III. The people of Cyprus honour on Saturday all those who sacrificed their life to defend democracy during the coup d'etat on the 15th of July 1974. Treacherous coup d' état of July 15, 1974 gave Turkey the excuse it was seeking to invade Cyprus, President tells CNA The state condemns in the strongest possible terms everyone who tried to abolish democracy by armed force, giving Turkey the excuse it was seeking to invade Cyprus, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) on the occasion of the 49th anniversary of the coup d' état in Cyprus, stressing the imperative need of safeguarding democracy. President Christodoulides urges T/C leader to visit the CMP lab together President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, requested on Friday in writing from the Turkish Cypriot leader to visit the Anthropological Laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus (CMP) together, "to send a positive message'. He said he addressed the issue in writing to the UN Secretary-General as well. President Christodoulides was speaking following the memorial service at the church of St. Constantine and Helen for those who fell during the coup d' état, 49 years ago on Saturday. Wounds can only be healed through harmony and consensus, says House leader The wounds and trauma from what happened in Cyprus can be healed only through harmony and consensus, pledged President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou. She was speaking during the extraordinary session of the House to mark Saturday's anniversary of the 1974 coup d' état of July 15, 1974. Sunday 16 July 2023 We will not accept any two-state solution for Cyprus, Greek FM says Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis underlined Greece's unwavering commitment to the efforts for a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem and the clear rejection of any two-state solution. In an interview with 'Kathimerini' newspaper, Gerapetritis said "for Greece, finding a just, viable, functional and mutually acceptable solution to the Cyprus issue is a top foreign policy priority." We will not cede Cyprus' sovereign rights, Minister tells memorial in New York We will not cede Cyprus' sovereign rights and we will not allow the dissolution of the Republic of Cyprus, Defence Minister, Michalis Giorgallas said on Sunday speaking at a memorial service for the 49th anniversary of the Turkish invasion that was held at the Archangel Michael community in Long Island, New York. The memorial service was organized by the Federation of Cypriot Organizations of America, the International Coordinating Committee of the Cyprus Struggle (PSEKA) and the Consulate General of Cyprus in New York. Monday 17 July 2023 Cyprus' President travels to Brussels for EU-CELAC Summit Cyprus' President Nikos Christodoulides participates in the Summit of the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), taking place on July 17 and 18, in Brussels. This is the third EU-CELAC Summit, where, among other things, issues on the economy, the green and digital transition, trade and investments and the strengthening of the cooperation and strategic relationship between the EU and CELAC in general will be discussed, a statement by the Presidency said. Foreign Minister Kombos begins contacts in London Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, begins contacts in London on Monday before heading to the FAC meeting in Brussels on Thursday. On Monday, he held a series of meetings with members and organized groups of the Cypriot community, while in the evening he attended a dinner held in his honor by the National Federation of Cypriots in the United Kingdom. Cyprus tells UN it is deeply concerned by growing use of violence as war tactic Cyprus is deeply concerned by the growing use of sexual violence as a tactic of war, torture, and terrorism said its Permanent Representative, Ambassador Andreas Hadjichrysanthou, at the UNSC Open Debate on the implementation of resolutions regarding conflict-related sexual violence at the UN headquarters. He told the debate titled 'Conflict-related sexual violence: promoting implementation of Security Council resolutions on conflict-related sexual violence' on Friday that Cyprus strongly condemns gender-based violence in all its forms and manifestations, online and offline, including all acts of sexual violence against civilians in armed conflicts. Parties from both communities in Cyprus support continuation of CMP operations Leaders and representatives from Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot political parties participating in the bi-communal dialogue, under the auspices of the Slovak Embassy, expressed their 'unwavering support' for the continuation of Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) operations until the last missing person is identified. Politicians from both sides of the divide, jointly visited on Monday the anthropological laboratory of CMP. Greek and Cypriot banks show improved credit profiles, reports Fitch Ratings Fitch Ratings released a new report on Monday stating that the credit profiles of Greek and Cypriot banks have significantly improved over the past year due to de-risking and restructuring. The rating agency has taken positive rating actions on all Greek and Cypriot banks in the last twelve months, reflecting improved profitability and the resilience of the Greek and Cypriot economies in 2023. EU procures modern COVID-19 diagnostic equipment to Turkish Cypriot community ?he United Nations Development Programme (UNPD) and the European Union announced on Monday the procurement of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment for the diagnosis and surveillance of COVID-19 in the Turkish Cypriot community, under a project funded by the European Union (EU) as part of the EU-funded Local Infrastructure Project (LIF). As stated, this significant investment of pound 300,000 will bolster the current capacity, improve the quality of diagnostic services and enhance preparedness, and among the necessary equipment procured is a next-generation sequencing instrument, which was not previously available to the Turkish Cypriot community. Tuesday 18 July 2023 President "cautiously optimistic" after Erdogan's meetings with EU leaders Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides expressed "cautious optimism" after having been briefed by EU leaders, on the margins of the EU - Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) summit, regarding their discussions with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan during the NATO meeting in Vilnius. President Christodoulides also announced that he had received a positive response from Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar regarding a joint visit to the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) anthropological lab. Turkey's position on Cyprus remains point of disagreement, EU official tells CNA Turkey's approach on the Cyprus question remains one of the main points of disagreement between the EU and Turkey, an EU official said responding to a question by the Cyprus News Agency during a briefing ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council which will be held on Thursday in Brussels, the agenda of which includes EU - Turkey relations. Relations with Turkey will be the subject of a working lunch the Foreign Ministers will have. President discusses embassy in Buenos Aires with Argentinian President The forthcoming opening of a Cypriot embassy in Buenos Aires and the 60th anniversary of Argentina's participation in UNFICYP were the two main topics of Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides' meeting with Argentine President Alberto Fernández, during the second day of the EU - CELAC Summit in Brussels on Tuesday. According to a presidency statement, the meeting was held in a positive atmosphere, and focused on finding ways to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries both at bilateral and multilateral level. Cyprus Foreign Minister declares readiness to resume settlement talks 'We are ready to return back to the negotiation table tomorrow and we are waiting for the other side to join us,' Cyprus' Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos told an event held in the UK Parliament on Tuesday evening. The event, organised by the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK and hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Cyprus, gave Kombos the opportunity to set out the pillars of the country's foreign policy in the presence of the UK Foreign Minister for the UN Lord Ahmad, MPs from all the major British parties, officials from the Foreign Office and many Cypriots living in the UK. AFET seeks alternatives for EU - Turkey relations, Cyprus references in report Turkey's EU accession process cannot resume under current circumstances, and new possible ways to cooperate should be explored through a 'parallel and realistic framework', according to the report adopted by the Foreign Affairs Committee (AFET) of the European Parliament which was approved on Tuesday, and which includes extended references to the Cyprus Problem. The report, adopted by 47 votes in favour, no votes against and 10 abstentions, underlines that unless there is a drastic change of course by the Turkish government, the country's accession process cannot resume. Fiscal Council notes delays in the implementation of commitments for RRP Cyprus' Fiscal Council notes significant and wide delays in the implementation of commitments related to the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), in its interim report published on Tuesday. The Council also emphasizes that a "reformative mood with political courage" cannot be found in any of the strategic plans, describing this as a "significant omission", which should be addressed without further delay "and with more political will than has been demonstrated to date, both by the executive and the legislative branch", noting that failure to realise the seriousness of the issue is considered a medium-term risk that threatens public finances and reduces maximum growth potential. Construction materials prices up by 5.78% in first half of 2023 An annual increase of 5.78% was recorded in the Price Index of Construction Materials for the period January-June 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, according to data published by the Cyprus Statistical Service on Tuesday. The Price Index of Construction Materials for June 2023 reached 135.28 units (base year 2015=100). Cyprus' Composite Leading Economic Index recorded a 2.1% increase in June Cyprus' Composite Leading Economic Index (CLEI) recorded an annual increase of 2.1% in June, the University of Cyprus' Economics Research Centre (ERC) said in a press release on Tuesday. According to the press release, Cyprus' CLEI, which is compiled by the ERC, recorded a year-over-year increase of 2.1% in June 2023, following the year-over-year increases of 1.8% and 1.7% recorded in May and April 2023, respectively (based on recent and revised data). Wednesday 19 July 2023 Substantial results are expected from joint visit to the CMP Lab, says President President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said that he expects substantial results from his joint visit with the Turkish Cypriot leader to the Anthropological Laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus. The President made the remark during a tribute event for the Missing Persons at the Missing Persons Panorama in Kornos village on Wednesday evening, emphasising that ascertaining the fate of the missing is a top priority for the state. He will not engage in public confrontation with Tatar, says President President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, said he would not engage in a game of public confrontation with leader of the Turkish Cypriots, Ersin Tatar, stating that they have reached a joint statement on the issue of missing persons, which will be announced after their joint visit to the anthropological laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP), which will take place at the end of July. Authorities investigate reports about hotels in Varosha, source says Government authorities are investigating reports based on which a Turkish businessman opened the reservations for 2025 in hotels in the fenced off area of Turkish occupied Varosha announcing that he bought four hotels, 86 apartments and 20 acres of land in the closed area of Famagusta. A source said that the competent government authorities are fully investigating the issue and are double checking the information, adding that the matter is serious and complex because it has both financial and legal aspects. Greece supports President's efforts on Cyprus problem, Greek Deputy Minister says The Greek government fully supports the efforts of the President of the Republic in the Cyprus problem for greater EU involvement, Greek Deputy Defence Minister Nikolaos Hardalias said on Wednesday, following his meeting with President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace. According to a statement issued by the Presidency, during the meeting President Christodoulides noted that Cyprus is ready to assist Greece in its efforts to extinguish the fires, a message he also conveyed to the leadership of the country. Cyprus' House President receives First Deputy Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament The excellent cooperation between the Parliaments of Greece and Cyprus and the possibility of further strengthening exchanges and coordination at the bilateral level and within the framework of the tripartite mechanisms of parliamentary cooperation with countries in the region, were noted during the meeting of the President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou with the First Deputy Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament, Ioannis Plakiotakis. Demetriou received Plakiotakis, who is in Cyprus representing the President of the Hellenic Parliament, Konstantinos Tasoulas, in attending events marking the dark anniversaries of 1974; the coup against President Makarios by the military junta ruling Greece at the time and the ensuing Turkish invasion of the island. Cyprus economy is on a good track, says Finance Minister The economy is on a good track, said Finance Minister Makis Keravnos on Wednesday, when asked to comment on press reports that the Fiscal Council is raising questions about the state of the economy. Invited to comment on an article published in daily "Politis" about concerns from the Fiscal Council regarding the state of the economy, Keravnos said that the "basic rule of the Ministry of Finance is to generate primary surpluses that will secure this trajectory in order to meet the Maastricht criteria by the end of 2026". EuroAsia Interconnector signs record-breaking subsea cable deal with Nexans EuroAsia Interconnector announced it has awarded Nexans a pound 1.43-billion contract for the construction and installation of the HVDC Cable Systems linking Cyprus and Greece, implementing a crucial milestone in the construction course of this strategic project, aiming to connect the national electricity grids of Israel, Cyprus and Greece. According to the company, the interconnector will deliver up to 2,000 MW of energy at stage 2 to Europe and will be the largest submarine electricity interconnector in history, supplying over 3 million homes with electricity. Energy Minister says government is evaluating EuroAsia Interconnector Minister of Energy Giorgos Papanastasiou said on Wednesday that the government is evaluating the Cyprus-Greece-Israel electrical interconnection project, EuroAsia Interconnector, but did not clarify whether or how the government will support the financing of the project of such a strategic importance, the cost of which has increased by 23%. In statements after a meeting of the Council of Ministers, Papanastasiou reiterated that the government is considering three options, namely the provision of government guarantees, in order for the project to secure the remaining funding, the participation in the capital of the private implementing body, or no support. Cabinet approves double taxation avoidance agreement with Oman The Council of Ministers approved on Wednesday an agreement for double taxation avoidance and the prevention of tax evasion regarding income taxes as well as the relevant protocol between the Republic of Cyprus and the Sultanate of Oman, Minister of Finance, Makis Keravnos said after the Cabinet meeting. Keravnos said that the agreement is based on the OECD model of double taxation agreement and the UN model, and it contains all minimum conditions concerning bilateral agreements as defined by the actions issued by the OECD for the tax base erosion and profit shifting related to bilateral tax treaties. Harmonized inflation plunges to a near 2-year low in June Harmonized inflation plunged in June 2023 compared to June last year, falling to the lowest level in nearly two years due to a significant drop in energy prices. According to data published by the Statistical Service on Wednesday, the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) rose by 2.8% between June 2022 and June 2023. Annual inflation down to 2.8% in Cyprus in June according to Eurostat In June 2023, the annual inflation rate dropped in Cyprus (from 3.6% in May to 2.8%), as well as in the eurozone (6.1% to 5.5%) and the EU (7.1% to 6.4%), according to figures published by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. A year earlier in June 2022, the annual inflation rate in Cyprus was 9.0%, and stood at 8.6% in the eurozone and at 9.6% in the EU. 'To Vouni' is Cypriot summer recommendation for Library of the Council of the EU Novel 'To Vouni' by Louiza Papaloizou is this year's Cypriot recommendation as part of the Readers of Europe campaign, run by the Library of the Council of the European Union. Every year the Permanent Representations of the 27 member states in Brussels are invited to recommend books from their countries to read over the summer. Thursday 20 July 2023 20 July 1974: The day when time in Cyprus stood still Time stood still on that tragic morning of July 20, exactly 49 years ago, when the once peaceful island of the Mediterranean began to suffer the violence of the Turkish army that invaded the island with rage, spreading death, havoc, despair and destruction. By violating every rule of international law, Turkey unleashed the first phase of the Cyprus tragedy, on July 20, 1974, while a few days later the second drama followed in which Famagusta was also occupied. The current status quo cannot be the future of Cyprus, President tells CNA The current status quo is not and will never be accepted and cannot be the future of Cyprus, the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides has told CNA, on the occasion of the 49th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. He stressed that "our effort and struggle is for this year's sad anniversary to be the last one that part of our country is occupied." Everything possible is done to break deadlock and restart talks, says President President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said "we are doing everything possible to break the deadlock and restart substantive negotiations from where they left off in the summer of 2017". He made the remark on Thursday after the memorial service for the fallen officers and soldiers during the Turkish invasion, which took place at the military cemetery Tymbou Makedonitissas. We are working to break the impasse and resume Cyprob talks, President says We are working to break the deadlock and restart the talks on the Cyprus problem, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said addressing an event to condemn the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 held at the Presidential Palace Thursday. The event was attended by the President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, the Archbishop of Cyprus George, the Ambassador of Greece, Ioannis Papameletiou, as well as representatives of the political, military and religious leadership of the country. RoC commemorates the fallen during the 1974 Turkish invasion The Republic of Cyprus seeks a just, viable and functional solution to the Cyprus problem, which will liberate our country and allow our people to live together in security and prosperity, said the Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Minister Petros Xenophontos during a memorial service for the fallen during the 1974 Turkish invasion, which took place on Thursday at the Apostle Varnavas Cathedral in Nicosia, in the presence of President Nikos Christodoulides, House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou and state and political parties representatives. The 21st century cannot tolerate a divided European country, Greek Premier says The 21st century cannot tolerate a divided European country with an occupying army in its territory, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has said, adding that "the Bi-zonal Bicommunal Federation is the only solution of a united Republic of Cyprus." In a message on Twitter marking the anniversary of the Turkish invasion in Cyprus, Mitsotakis wrote that "truth means refusing to submit to oblivion. First Deputy Speaker of Hellenic Parliament visits Cyprus First Deputy Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament Ioannis Plakiotakis represents the Parliament in the events condemning the coup d'etat and the Turkish invasion against Cyprus in 1974. Foreign Affairs Minister takes part in EU Foreign Affairs Council Cyprus Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Constantinos Kombos, takes part in the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) on Thursday in Brussels. Developments in Ukraine and the external aspect of economic security are on the Council's agenda. Turkey's aspirations regarding Europe 'pass through Cyprus', Kombos said upon his arrival to the Foreign Affairs Council, underlining also that Turkey's assessment can only be benchmark oriented. EU - Turkey relations is one of the main issues on the agenda of the Foreign Ministers, and is set to be discussed during a working lunch. 'There is a number of important and interconnected issues on the agenda today, ranging from Ukraine, the state of the US - EU relation, and China' Kombos said. Turkey should take steps on Cyprus in order to make progress with EU, Cypriot FM says from Brussels The discussion regarding the EU's relations with Turkey should be based on progress made by Ankara, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said during an exchange of views at the Foreign Affairs Council of the EU in Brussels, adding that concrete steps are expected from Turkey in relation to the Cyprus issue. According to an official statement, the Foreign Minister stressed that EU - Turkey relations are governed by specific conditionalities, and that the assessment of relations should be based on the progress made by Ankara. Cyprus' participation a condition for EU - NATO cooperation, Greek FM said Cyprus' full participation in the deepening of EU - NATO cooperation is a "condition that cannot be deviated from", Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis said after a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Gerapetritis noted that he and Stoltenberg exchanged views on developments in the Eastern Mediterranean. EU ready to play active role in supporting solution process, Stano tells CNA There is no alternative to a solution based on a bizonal bicommunal federation with political equality, and the EU is ready to support all stages of the UN process, European Commission spokesperson for external affairs Peter Stano told the Cyprus News Agency in a written statement, responding to a question on the role that the EU can have in restarting negotiations. 'The EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions and in line with the EU acquis and the principles on which the EU is founded' Stano said. P5 praise efforts to resume Cyprus peace talks in statements to CNA The five permanent members of the UN Security Council praise efforts to resume the stalled Cyprus peace talks under the UN aegis and reaffirm their position for the reunification of the island under a federal roof. The Embassies/High Commission of the P5 issued statements upon request by the Cyprus News Agency on the occasion of the 49th anniversary of the 1974 coup and the illegal Turkish invasion that followed and the revived efforts to resume the peace negotiations. Event in US Congress marks 49th anniversary of Turkish invasion of Cyprus American lawmakers sent a message for a continuous struggle to reunify Cyprus, at an event held to mark the anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in Congress. The event was organised by the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) in Congress, and was attended by US Congressmen, including Gus Bilirakis, Chris Papas, Nicole Malliotaki, Dina Titus. Justice Minister participates in EU Informal Council Cyprus Minister of Justice and Public Order Anna Koukkides Prokopiou participates in the Informal Council of Justice and Home Affairs of the European Union which is held on July 20 and 21 in Logrono, Spain. According to an announcement by the Ministry the agenda includes issues related to Justice, Public Order and Human Rights, which fall under the Ministry's responsibilities. Interior Minister takes part at informal EU Council with a focus on migration The progress made on the Pact on Migration and Asylum was the focus of the informal Council of Ministers of Internal Affairs of the EU, in Spain, between July 20 and 21 attended by Interior Minister Interior, Konstantinos Ioannou. Friday 21 July 2023 Cyprus President to appoint advisor for the promotion of multiculturalism Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said on Friday that he plans to appoint an Advisor for the Promotion of Multiculturalism, Acceptance and Respect for Diversity, very soon. Addressing the 7th Youth Summit of European Youth Parliament Cyprus 'Emerging from the past, refueling to the future: Embracing diversity' organized in Paphos by Neapolis University, the President of the Republic said that emerging from the past and embracing diversity, means "to challenge stereotypes, to combat inequality, to fight discrimination, and to advocate for inclusiveness and acceptance regardless of race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation, age, physical abilities, religious and political beliefs, ideologies and socio-economic status." Cyprus FM condemns Erdogan's illegal visit to Turkish occupied areas The Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unequivocally condemned the illegal visit of the Turkish President to the occupied areas on the anniversary of the Turkish invasion as well as provocative statements on the Cyprus issue that challenge the agreed framework for a bicommunal, bizonal federation solution. Such rhetoric, the Ministry said, aims to promote the "recognition" of the illegal secessionist entity and works against any prospects for a resolution of the Cyprus issue, at a time when the Republic of Cyprus is making intense efforts to resume negotiations within the agreed framework of the United Nations. Cyprus today is more secure exactly because it is in the EU, Metsola tells CNA Cyprus is today a more secure country exactly because it is a member of the European family, the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola told the Cyprus News Agency in a written statement on the anniversary of the 1974 invasion and the efforts to restart negotiations to reunify the country. 'Europe will never be completed as long as Cyprus remains divided. Menendez condemns Turkey's aggressive stance, reaffirms commitment to Cyprus reunification The aggressive behaviour of Turkey was condemned by President of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Senate, Robert Menendez, on the occasion of the 49th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. At the same time, he committed once again to the territorial integrity of Cyprus and a solution based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation. Cyprus' connectivity important for economic reasons says President Cyprus' connectivity with other countries is very important for matters of tourism and the economy in general, the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides has said. He attended on Friday the presentation of the two new Airbus A220 aircrafts of Cyprus Airways' fleet at the old Larnaka airport. Interior Minister urges for more active EU approach on migration Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou underlined the need for the EU to take a more active approach towards third countries, which constitute the main countries of origin and transit for irregular migrants. He made the remark during his intervention at the informal Ministerial Meeting on Justice and Home Affairs of the EU Council of Ministers in Logrono, Spain. EU focusing on rights of victims is very important, Justice Minister says It is very important that the EU, under the Spanish Presidency, is focusing on the rights of victims, Justice and Public Order Minister Anna-Koukkides-Prokopiou stressed today in a statement ahead of the Informal EU Justice and Home Affairs Summit hosted in Logrono by the Spanish EU Presidency. 'We are here for the second day for a series of important meetings in this Informal Minister's Summit in Logrono' the Minister said noting that during the Summit's first day a number of topics were covered as far as security is concerned. Refugees from Turkish-occupied Kyrenia reiterate call for a just Cyprus solution Refugees from Turkish-occupied Kyrenia conveyed their determination for a just, viable and functioning solution to the Cyprus problem during an anti-occupation rally, on Friday, in Nicosia, protesting the 1974 Turkish invasion and ongoing occupation of the island's northern third. The event at the military cemetery of Makedonitissa Tomb, was organised by the Municipalities of Kyrenia, Lapithos and Karavas, the Union of Communities of Kyrenia District, as well as other refugee associations of Kyrenia District. Saturday 22 July 2023 US reiterates support for a Cyprus settlement in line with UN resolutions The US supports efforts to reunify Cyprus in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, Matthew Miller, a Spokesperson for the US Department of State has said. Replying to a question by the Athens News Agency, Miller noted, moreover, that Cyprus is an important partner of the US in efforts to promote regional stability, security and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean. Menendez seeks to extend renewal period of lifting the arms embargo on Cyprus US Senator Bob Menendez has announced the introduction of an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that will extend the time required to renew the lifting of the arms embargo on the Republic of Cyprus. Athens-Macedonian News Agency (AMNA) reports that after the complete lifting of the embargo and the fulfillment of all obligations on the part of Cyprus, the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Senate explained that this is a logical step that will allow for a longer-term planning with the aim of better coordinating the cooperation between Washington and Nicosia in the field of security. Standing Rapporteur of the EP on the missing persons issue, to visit Cyprus The Standing Rapporteur on the missing persons in Cyprus, MEP Isabel Santos (S and D, PT) visits Cyprus for a series of contacts regarding the issue of missing persons. On Saturday, Santos met with Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot relatives of the missing persons, as well as with experts on the subject, at the EU House. Sunday 23 July 2023 Dealing with migration needs addressing the root causes, President says in Rome Cyprus President, Nikos Christodoulides, travels to Rome on Sunday, following an invitation from Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, to participate in the International Conference on Migration and Development. President Christodoulides, said that the most important aspect for dealing with immigration is to address the root causes of this phenomenon. According to a press release by the Presidency, in statements to the media in Rome, the President of the Republic said that the presence of the Republic of Cyprus at this Summit is of particular importance and thanked the Italian Prime Minister for the invitation. During his intervention at the International Conference, President Christodoulides said that it is clear that we need to do more in order to deal with the migration crisis, with cooperation and coordination. He also emphasised that, for the last six years, Cyprus has continuously been the EU member state with the largest number of international protection asylum seekers, in proportion to its population. Cyprus-Greece-Israel Summit postponed after Netanyahu's medical procedure The trilateral summit between Cyprus, Greece and Israel that was scheduled for Wednesday is postponed, sources told CNA on Sunday, since the Israeli Prime Minister's visit to Nicosia was called off. According to Israeli and international media reports, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent an operation on Saturday. Annual impact of Turkey's economic embargo on RoC at 1% of Cyprus GDP The impact of Turkey's economic embargo on the Republic of Cyprus amounts to around one percentage point of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually. According to the data collected by CNA, the biggest economic impact from the embargo imposed by Turkey, was on the shipping sector that amounts to 0.3 percentage points of the GDP. Cyprus' DefMin welcomes Menendez's amendment in relation to arms embargo Cyprus' Defence Minister Michalis Giorgallas on Sunday told CNA he welcomes the 'important' initiative and amendment by US Senator Robert Menendez to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with which he seeks the extension to three years of the required period for the renewal of the lifting of the embargo on the sale of arms to Cyprus. Asked by CNA to comment on Senator Menendez's announcement on the introduction of a relevant amendment to the NDAA and if it was something that was discussed during his recent contacts in the US, Giorgallas said that, since the beginning of the week, when he was in Washington for the events marking the 30th anniversary of the State Partnership Program (SPP), he emphasised during all his contacts that Cyprus has complied with the terms and conditions included in the East Med Act and that, in order to be able to make long-term planning for the purchase of armament, 'a more permanent and multi-year renewal of the lifting of the embargo is required instead of the annual one that is now in effect.' Resumption of new effort for a Cyprus settlement a priority, Minister says The resumption of a new effort for a Cyprus settlement has been set as a priority by the Government of Nikos Christodoulides, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Anna Koukkides Prokopiou, said. Prokopiou was speaking on Sunday morning at an annual memorial service, at Kalopanayiotis village in Nicosia district, for those who fell during the 1974 Turkish invasion. Monday 24 July 2023 EU response to our proposal particularly positive, President says The EU's response to our proposal for the Cyprus issue is particularly positive, said President, Nikos Christodoulides, welcoming the heads of the Diplomatic Missions of the Republic of Cyprus, on Monday morning, at the Presidential Palace. Initially, the President noted that this is his first meeting with the ambassadors of the Republic of Cyprus abroad after assuming his duties. Turkey's stance leads to legitimization of illegal invasion, Minister says Since the illegal Turkish invasion of the island in 1974 Turkey preserves its provocative and aggressive stance wanting to legitimize the unjust assault, Defense Minister Michalis Giorgallas has said. Delivering a speech on Monday, during a commemoration event, the Minister said that Turkey wants to create a new fait accompli and we must make no mistake as to its ultimate goals. Time is the greatest enemy, says EP rapporteur on missing persons Time is the greatest enemy for the determination of the fate of the missing persons, said European Parliament's Standing Rapporteur on the missing persons in Cyprus, Isabel Santos, during her meeting with the members of the Parliamentary Committee on Refugees at the House of Representatives on Monday. The Portuguese MEP also highlighted the unity that exists on this issue in the country, as the pain, she said, "is common to all." House President receives new European Parliament missing persons rapporteur House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou, received on Monday the new Permanent Rapporteur of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) of the European Parliament on the issue of missing persons in Cyprus, Isabel Santos, who pays a fact-finding visit to Cyprus. According to a House of Representatives press release, welcoming Santos, Demetriou underlined the importance of appointing a new Rapporteur on the issue of missing persons in Cyprus, the most tragic aspect of the Turkish invasion and continued occupation of part of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus. MEP Santos expresses will to try for new impetus to Cyprus missing persons issue Her intention to help give new impetus to the work being done on the issue of missing persons Permanent Rapporteur of the European Parliament on the missing persons in Cyprus, Isabel Santos, expressed on Monday, after her meeting with members of the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) and a tour of the anthropological laboratory. Santos said that there should be cooperation regarding access to information and excavation sites to locate missing persons since this was a humanitarian and not a political issue, which concerns both communities on the island. FM and House President have meetings with heads of diplomatic missions President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Konstantinos Kombos, had separate meetings with the heads of the diplomatic missions of the Republic of Cyprus abroad on Monday, in Nicosia. In a post on Twitter, Demetriou said that "we exchanged views regarding the promotion of our national issue, but also the interests of our country more broadly in relation to the challenges as they develop in the changing international environment." Deputy Spokesperson attends events condemning the coup-invasion in Australia Deputy Government Spokesperson, Doxa Komodromou, attended events organised by the Cypriot expatriate community in Australia condemning the tragic anniversaries of the coup d' état and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, representing the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. Komodromou, who was the keynote speaker in anti-occupation events in Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane and Sydney, was accompanied by the High and Deputy High Commissioner Antonis Sammoutis and Stavros Nicolaou respectively. The events took place between July 14th and July 24th. During her visit to Adelaide, she visited the largest museum in the area accompanied by Member of Parliament and Minister of Art and Small Family Business, Andrea Michaels, who is of Cypriot origin. Trade can create momentum for Cyprus reunification, Ferreira writes in op-ed Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Elisa Ferreira, outlines the ways in which the two communities can promote their relations until conditions to solve the Cyprus Problem are in place, putting a special focus on already existing trade between the two communities, in an op-ed which was published by 'Kathimerini' and 'YeniDuzen". In her article, entitled 'A long journey always begins with a small step', Ferreira notes out that 'the many crises the EU has been facing recently should not let us forget the ongoing pain caused by the open wound of Cyprus' division'. 'Next year will mark 50 years that the island remains de facto divided. Half a century. Minimum wage in Cyprus about halfway in EU ranking The minimum wage in Cyprus is slightly lower than 1,000 euro per month since the country became the 22nd out of 27 EU member states to have instituted a national minimum wage on January 1st 2023, according to data released by Eurostat, the statistical service of the EU, about the situation as it stood on July 1st. The minimum wage in Cyprus is about halfway down the EU's ranking at 940 euro per month, which is relatively low compared to the country with the highest minimum wage, that is Luxembourg (2,508 euro per month). Bulgaria was the country with the lowest minimum wage, at 399 euro per month. Shipping Deputy Minister and European ambassadors discuss sector's challenges The shipping industry's challenges were discussed at separate meetings the Deputy Minister of Shipping, Marina Hadjimanolis, had on Monday with Ambassador of Netherlands, Elke Merks-Schaapveld, and Ambassador of Germany, Anke Schlimm. In a press release the Deputy Ministry said Hadjimanolis pointed out the excellent relations and the excellent cooperation of the countries in matters related to shipping, especially in the context of international organisations and the European Union, and expressed her desire to further deepen the close relations they maintain. Tuesday 25 July 2023 Greek PM postpones visit to Cyprus due to Canadair crash Greek Prime Minister's visit to Cyprus, scheduled for Wednesday, has been postponed after the crash on Tuesday of a Canadair firefighting aircraft in Karystos. "Due to the tragic incident in Karystos, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis contacted the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, and agreed that tomorrow's scheduled official visit of the Prime Minister to Cyprus should be postponed for the next days," a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Press Office reads. President conveys condolences to Greek Premier for plane crash in Karystos In the wake of the firefighting place crash that occurred in Karystos, Evia, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, has expressed Cyprus Republic's condolences to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. In a written statement Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis said that the Cypriot President reiterated Cyprus' unwavering support for Greece, which is currently grappling with the catastrophic wildfires. President receives children from US and Canada Cypriot Diaspora President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, received today, at the Presidential Palace, children from the US and Canadian Diaspora, who were accompanied by Thalia Antoniou, Head of Overseas and Repatriated Cypriots Service. The group consists of 14 children, ten from the USA and four from Canada, aged 13 to 17, and their expatriate companions, hosted in Cyprus July 22-29, as part of the Young Expatriates Hospitality Program. Agriculture Ministry in support of EU efforts to export food from Ukraine Cyprus Agriculture Ministry's Permanent Secretary Andreas Gregoriou reiterated the country's support for any EU initiative to export food from Ukraine and enhance food security, during his participation on Tuesday at the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting held in Brussels. According to a Ministry statement regarding the monitoring of stock, Gregoriou supported the need to collect data in order to take timely measures to ensure the smooth functioning of the market, transparency and a level playing field. Housing policy to be strengthened with new plans, says Interior Minister The government is looking forward to making the most of the existing housing policy framework and strengthening it with new plans to ensure housing for citizens belonging to lower and middle-income groups, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said during his official visit to Athens on Tuesday afternoon. According to a statement from the Ministry, Ioannou met with Greek Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Sofia Zacharaki. UNDP and RoC sign financial support agreement for Committee on Missing Persons The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Republic of Cyprus signed on Tuesday an agreement on the provision of financial support to the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus. According to a Presidency statement, the agreement was signed on behalf of the Republic by the Director of the Office of the President of the Republic, Charalambos Charalambous, and on behalf of the UNDP by the Head of the Programme's Office in Cyprus, Jakhongir Khaydarov. Schengen Information System operational in Cyprus The Schengen Information System (SIS) is operational in Cyprus, upgrading border security and policing in the country, the Ministry of Justice and Public Order said in a statement on Tuesday. As stated, the main purpose of the SIS is to exchange information and data between the participating countries in real time, while ensuring that the authorities have more complete and reliable information at their disposal. EU Commission on Cyprus' access to Schengen Information System Cyprus has joined the Schengen Information System (SIS) starting today, the European Commission has announced. Joining the SIS does not mean that Cyprus is joining the Schengen area, but that Cypriot law enforcement authorities will have access to information on border security and management of all participating countries. Eurostat: Less new asylum applications in Cyprus in April compared to April 2022 A total of 645 persons asylum applicants sought international protection in Cyprus in April 2023, which constitutes a significant reduction compared to April 2022 when there were 2,300 new applications, according to data released by Eurostat. In the EU, there were 72,630 first-time asylum applicants in April 2023, marking a 34% increase compared with April 2022 (54,350). Cyprus energy demand reaches record high on Monday The highest demand for electricity in the last years was recorded on Monday in Cyprus, a Cyprus Transmission System Operator (TSO) spokesperson told CNA today. According to Spokesperson, Chara Kousiappa, on Monday, July 24, the demand reached 1243 MW and at times peaked at 1246 MW. Cyprus domestic bonds yields show signs of stabilisation in July Cypriot short-term domestic bonds yields showed signs of stabilisation in July, with the weighted average yield reaching 3.64% compared with 3.61% in the previous month. According to the Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) during yesterday's 13 Week Treasury Bills (T-bills) Auction, tenders for a total amount of pound 65.65 million were submitted, out of which, pound 11.15 mn total nominal value have been accepted with a weighted average yield of 3.64%. GDP growth and inflation at 3% in 2023 Economic Research Centre of UCY projects GDP growth and inflation will be at 3% in 2023, according to forecasts of the Economic Research Centre of the University of Cyprus, in the July issue. ERC notes that the projection for 2023 remains unchanged, compared to the projection in the May issue. Wednesday 26 July 2023 Visit at CMP's anthropological lab is a first important step, Spokesperson says Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis has said that the upcoming visit of President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar at the anthropological laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons, is a first important step. In statements to the press on Wednesday, at the Presidential Palace, the Spokesperson recalled that the visit on Friday will be taking place following an invitation addressed to Tatar by the President of the Republic from the first moment the Cypriot President assumed office. Greek Prime Minister's visit to Cyprus rescheduled for Monday, Spokesperson says Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, announced Wednesday that the visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Cyprus has been rescheduled for Monday, July 31. Speaking after the Cabinet meeting and in response to journalists' questions, Letymbiotis said that "the visit is now planned for Monday, and a relevant announcement will be made if and when conditions permit, as Greece is still grappling with devastating wildfires." We are going through a critical period with Turkey, says Defence Minister We are going through an extremely critical period, with occupying Turkey having escalated its actions and aggressive rhetoric to a dangerous degree and proceeding to create a fait accompli on our occupied territories, Defence Minister Michael Giorgallas said on Wednesday. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Army, Navy and Air Force non-commissioned officers, Giorgallas said that "in this unstable and constantly changing geopolitical environment, the state bases its diplomatic efforts on the presence of a strong National Guard, as the main pillar of political and diplomatic power." Flags to fly at half-mast at the House of Representatives for Canadair pilots Flags will fly at half-mast in the building of the House of Representatives during the three days of mourning that has been declared in Greece as a sign of respect to the memory of the two pilots of the Canadair fire fighter that crashed yesterday in Evoia. According to a House statement, the President Annita Demetriou and the MPs express their deep sadness and shock over the tragic death of the two pilots of the aircraft that crashed yesterday while fighting fires in Evoia. Cyprus supports youth participation in decision-making, official tells UN Youth has an indispensable role to play within the UN System, Cyprus' Permanent Representative to the UN Andreas Hadjichrysanthou said, adding in this regard, that Cyprus welcomes the report of the Secretary General on the United Nations Youth Office, and expresses appreciation for all the updates provided in relation to the establishment of the new UN Youth Office. Hadjichrysanthou addressed the 77th Session of the General Assembly, 'Item 134. Health Minister in Spain for EU meeting to discuss digital and mental health Minister of Health Popi Canaris departed on Wednesday for Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain, to attend an EU Health Ministers informal meeting, organised by the EU Spanish Presidency between 27-28 July. According to a Health Ministry press release, during the informal meeting Ministers will focus on digital health and its enhanced role in health systems. Cypriot products at the "Regal Branchentreff 2023" exhibition in Vienna Cypriot products such as halloumi, commandaria and zivania were showcased at the specialised exhibition "Regal Branchentreff 2023", which took place in Vienna recently. In a press release on Wednesday the Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry said it participated in the exhibition with a stand in cooperation with the Trade Centre of the Republic of Cyprus in Vienna. Thursday 27 July 2023 President underlines need to intensify cooperation on missing persons ahead of meeting with Tatar His joint visit with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar to the anthropological laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons on Friday is an important meeting with a political dimension, in the context of the effort to break the deadlock and resume talks, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Thursday, attending the Zodia Park inauguration ceremony, in Geri. In his remarks to journalists, President Christodoulides said that the issue of the missing persons is a purely humanitarian one, adding that he expects a clear message to be sent through tomorrow's meeting about the need for further cooperation so that the work of the CMP can be intensified and more results can be achieved, as the time that passes is against the whole effort. Reports about mosque erection near Apostolos Andreas being investigated, Spokesman says ?nformation regarding reports about the construction of a mosque close to the Monastery of Apostolos Andreas in Rizokarpaso were under investigation and are being evaluated by the competent authorities, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Thursday. Responding to questions from journalists after a meeting of the Council of Ministers, at the Presidential Palace, and asked about reports in the Turkish Cypriot on this issue, Letymbiotis said that they were also monitoring the reports while all relevant information was being investigated and evaluated by the competent authorities. Cyprus and Lebanon agree on measures to curb migration Cyprus and Lebanon agreed on measures aiming at a more effective management of migration and sea migration flows from the Eastern Mediterranean. The agreement was reached in the context of Interior Minister's visit to the neighboring country. According to an official press release, the two countries agreed to create a working group, at a technical level, consisting of officials from the two countries, to coordinate and undertake measures for the management of migration flows, as well as the creation of a network of Lebanon-Cyprus contact points at the operational level for the exchange of information and closer cooperation regarding the prevention of irregular flows including joint patrols. Cyprus Ambassador reaffirms Nicosia's respect to Serbia's sovereignty The new Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Serbia, Andreas Photiou, reaffirmed Cyprus' commitment to respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Serbia while presenting his credentials to President Aleksandar Vucic, on Tuesday, during a ceremony held at the Palace of Serbia, in Belgrade. The ceremony was also attended by Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, according to an announcement. Deputy Research Minister in Spain for Informal EU Competitiveness Council Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Philippos Hadjizacharias will attend the Informal Competitiveness Council Meeting on Research, organised by the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU in Santander on 27 and 28 July. According to a statement by the Deputy Ministry, the main issues on the Council's agenda are the strengthening of the European framework for science diplomacy and the formulation of the new Horizon Europe Strategic Plan for the period 2025-2027. Cyprus joins the OSCE' Forum for Security Co-operation Troika Cyprus has been accepted as a member of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) Troika (current, past and future chairs) of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). According to a PIO statement, Cyprus was welcomed as the new member of the Troika at yesterday's meeting of the Forum, during which the FSC Chairmanship was handed over from Bulgaria to Canada. Labor Minister issues decree for protection of employees from the heat Labor Minister Yiannis Panayiotou issued a decree on Thursday to protect from the heat employees in outdoor activities. Cyprus is affected by a heatwave the last weeks with extremely high temperatures over 40 Celsius and the Meteo Department has been issuing alerts to urge the public to be careful. The decree comes into effect immediately and it provides that any heavy work outdoors as well as food and mail delivery by bikes, motorcycles and scooters should be terminated between 12-1600 local time. Total sales of petroleum products up by 5.4% in June Total sales of petroleum products in June 2023 amounted to 132,828 tonnes, recording an increase of 5.4% compared to June 2022, according to data published by the Statistical Service on Thursday. A rise was observed in the provisions of aviation kerosene, up by 8.6%, as well as in the sales of heavy fuel oil (66.4%), asphalt (50.3%), road diesel (12.2%), liquefied petroleum gases (9.8%), heating gasoil (9.1%) and motor gasoline (7.6%). Friday 28 July 2023 President Christodoulides meets with Turkish Cypriot leader at CMP laboratory The President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides and the Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar met at the anthropological laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) in Cyprus. This is the first meeting between the two leaders since February, when Nikos Christodoulides, as President-elect of the Republic of Cyprus, met then with Ersin Tatar at the residence of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in Cyprus, Colin Stewart, in the UN-protected area of the old Nicosia airport. Christodoulides and Tatar called on all those who have information on the fate of the missing persons to provide it to the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus, after their joint visit. The two leaders also praised the work of the Committee, which they described as very important, and expressed their common conviction that the work of the CMP, as a purely humanitarian issue, should remain unaffected by political processes. Tatar positive to joint meeting with UNSG, President Christodoulides says Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar appeared positive to his proposal for a joint meeting with the UN Secretary General within the framework of the UN General Assembly, President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Friday, in his statements upon his return to the Presidential Palace, after their joint visit to the anthropological laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP). President Christodoulides also said that he proposed to Tatar the idea first voiced by lawyer Achilleas Demetriades for a truth and reconciliation committee, which could operate in tandem with the CMP. Christodoulides-Tatar express full support to CMP's work, UN says The leaders of the two communities expressed their full support for the effective work of the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus, as well as their acknowledgement and appreciation for the work carried out by the members of the Committee, the personnel of the anthropological laboratory and all the staff involved in the Committee's work, said the Head and Coordinator of the Good Offices Mission of the UN Secretary General in Cyprus, Sergiy Illarionov, on Friday, following the visit of the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides and the Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar to the CMP. In a media statement, Illarionov said that 'the two leaders reaffirmed their conviction that the CMP conducts a purely humanitarian work, emphasized the importance of insulating the CMP from political considerations, and called upon all concerned not to politicize this crucial work." EU Commission welcomes visit of two leaders to CMP The European Commission welcomed on Friday the joint visit today to the Missing Persons' Lab in the buffer zone in Nicosia, by the two leaders in Cyprus, President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, indicating that this symbolic step comes at a time of much anticipated progress towards the solution of the Cyprus issue. In a press release the Commission recalls that the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community "continues to provide assistance to facilitate the reunification of Cyprus and as part of its efforts, the European Commission is proud to extend substantial support to the CMP." US Embassy hopes joint visit at CMP yields opportunity for renewed talks The US Embassy in Nicosia has expressed hope that the joint visit of President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar at the Committee on Missing Persons anthropological laboratory yields opportunities to expand areas of cooperation, including renewed negotiations. In a tweet on Friday, the US Embassy says that "today, Christodoulides and Tatar jointly visited the Committee on Missing Persons anthropological laboratory in Cyprus". Joint visit to CMP sends powerful message of unity and hope, UNDP-Cyprus says The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Cyprus, commends the "landmark joint visit of the two Cypriot leaders, Mr Nikos Christodoulides, and Mr. Ersin Tatar to the Anthropological Laboratory of the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP)" adding that it sends a powerful message of unity, hope, and reconciliation. Jakhongir Khaydarov, UNDP Cyprus Head of Office, expressed his appreciation for the "momentous visit", stating that "we extend our sincere appreciation to the two leaders Mr Christodoulides and Mr. Tatar for their joint commitment to addressing the issue of missing persons. Government briefs US official over Cyprus' actions concerning sanctions The Cypriot government has briefed a US high ranking official over the actions taken with regards to implementation of sanctions imposed by the US government on Cypriot persons and entities associated with sanctioned Russian oligarchs. Erik Woodhouse, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions, who is visiting Cyprus, met on Thursday with Deputy Minister to the President Irene Pikis and Marilena Raouna, director of Diplomatic office of the President of the Republic. Cyprus calls on Azerbaijan to lift the Lachin Corridor blockade Cyprus' Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through a post on its official Twitter account, expresses concern over the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh and calls on Azerbaijan to lift the blockade of the Lachin Corridor. "Cyprus condemns the ongoing blockade of the Lachin Corridor and is deeply concerned with the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh", the tweet reads. Turkish-occupied Municipalities call for action to tackle sale of G/C properties The Committee of Cyprus Occupied Municipalities called for action to tackle the sale of Greek Cypriot properties in the island's Turkish-occupied areas, during a meeting on Friday with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. In a statement after the meeting, at the Presidential Palace, the President of the Committee, Mayor of Kythrea, Petros Kareklas, said they emphasized the need to deal with the issue, as Greek Cypriot refugees in need are forced to sale their property in the occupied areas, very often at prices deemed to be "humiliating." Cyprus welcomes EU regulation proposal on digital health, Minister says Cyprus welcomes the new proposal for an EU regulation on digital health, Health Minister Popi Kanari has said, adding that Nicosia believes that the European Health Data Space will promote better exchange and access to various types of health data, to the benefit of treatment and promotion of health. The Minister was speaking during the deliberations of the Informal Council of EU Health Ministers that took place in Spain 27-28 of July and was organised by the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU. Scientific diplomacy a tool to meet challenges, Research Minister tells EU counterparts Scientific Diplomacy is a significant tool for jointly handling challenges and for the building effective partnerships between states in a time difficult for international relations, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Philippos Hadjizacharias has said, addressing an informal meeting of the EU Research Ministers. The meeting took place on July 28 in Santander Spain and focused on fostering the European framework for Scientific Diplomacy and the role of science in forming policies and international relations. Cypriot bonds held by the Eurosystem via PSPP and PEPP amount to pound 7.12 billion Cypriot bonds held by the Eurosystem in the context of the Public Sector Purchases Programme (PSPP) and the Pandemic Emergency Purchases Programme (PEPP) amounted to pound 7.12 billion according to the latest data published by the ECB. On the basis of available data, the total purchases of Cypriot bonds by the Eurosystem amount to approximately 29.5% of the Cypriot public debt. Industrial Production Index up 3% in May 2023, year on year In May 2023, the Industrial Production Index reached 141.6 units (base 2015=100), recording an increase of 3% compared to May 2022, according to data published by the Statistical Service on Friday. The manufacturing sector registered an increase of 4.7% compared to May 2022. Commissioner for State Aid Control approves pound 35 mln scheme for broadband Commissioner for State Aid Control, Stella Michaelidou, approved on Friday a pound 35 million grant scheme for broadband networks. Michaelidou made a reference while handing over, on Friday, the 2021 annual report of her Office to the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. Sunday 30 July 2023 Focus on Euro-Turkish relations during Greek Premier's visit, President says There is a common approach and goals with Greece, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday, referring to the visit of the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Cyprus on Monday, indicating that one of the main topics on the agenda will be Euro-Turkish relations given that progress in the issue also goes through Cypriot-Turkish and Greek-Turkish relations. In his statement on Sunday at Throni of Panagia Kykkou, after the end of a memorial service of the first President of the Republic, Arch. Makarios, President Christodoulides emphasised that those who are anxiously trying to find differences between Athens and Nicosia will be disappointed because, as he said, "there is a common line, common approach, common goals" since "after all, the challenges are common." A realistic Cyprus solution is Makarios' legacy, President says The legacy of the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, Makarios III, is that it is "our obligation to seek, pursue and strive for the vindication of our people's toil and sacrifice, within a realistic framework for an achievable, sustainable and functional solution for the entire people of Cyprus,' President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday, addressing the annual memorial of Makarios III, in Kykkos Monastery. Efforts for resumption of Cyprus talks will continue, Spokesperson says Diplomatic efforts for the immediate resumption of Cyprus reunification talks will continue, assured the Government Spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis, on Sunday. In statements to the press after a memorial service in Yeroskipou, in Pafos district, Letymbiotis referred to the joint visit of President Christodoulides and the Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar to the anthropological laboratory of the Committee of Missing Persons (CMP), saying that this was the first important step, sending, at the same time, a humanitarian message to ascertain the fate of all the missing, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Deputy Assistant Secretary praises US - Cyprus cooperation in enforcing sanctions Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions Erik Woodhouse reaffirmed US' strong partnership with the Republic of Cyprus in enforcing sanctions against Russia in response to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In an interview with journalists during his visit to Cyprus, Woodhouse commended the country's efforts in implementing and enforcing sanctions against Russia. Central government debt at pound 23.8 bln in first six months of this year Cyprus central government debt amounted to pound 23.829 bln on June 30 2023, according to data published at the website of the Public Debt Management Office on Friday. The amount increased by pound 700 mln in the second quarter, compared to the previous quarter. Ministers stress proposal for European involvement for Cyprus talks resumption Officials representing the Government emphasised on Sunday the desired solution framework for the Cyprus issue and President Nikos Christodoulides' proposal for an enhanced role of the EU in the peace talks, during their addresses in memorial services, in honour to those who fell during the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, in 1974. Minister of Defence, Michalis Giorgallas, who delivered a memorial address during a service in Kornos, a village in Larnaka district, said that we owe to everyone who fell in battle defending our homeland, who died as refugees without returning to their (Turkish occupied) homes, and to the future generations of Cyprus a sound, functional and viable solution of the Cyprus issue. He added that "we seek the resumption of peace talks, which, through sincere intention and mutual understanding, will lead us to the long-awaited solution of the Cyprus problem, a solution in which anachronistic guarantees will be a thing of the past." Monday 31 July 2023 Greek Prime Minister pays official visit to Cyprus Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis paid on Monday an official visit to Cyprus to discuss in Nicosia the efforts to resume the UN-led talks on the Cyprus problem in connection with Turkey's EU relations. Leaders of Cyprus and Greece who met at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, said that the two countries have the willingness to have an even more solid cooperation. Leaders of Cyprus and Greece say they are in accord as regards Cyprus issue President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Tuesday that Nicosia and Athens are in accord as regards the Cyprus issue, dismissing any rumors of the contrary. In statements to the press following a tete-a-tete meeting they had at the Presidential Palace, in Nicosia, President Christodoulides stressed that the aspirations, the goals and the means to achieve those goals of the two countries as regards the Cyprus issue are the same, "despite the fact that there are some in Athens and Nicosia, who, for their own reasons, see differences between the two states." Greek PM starts Cyprus visit by paying respects at military cemetery and memorial Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis began his official visit to Cyprus on Monday with a visit to Makedonitissa Tomb, a military cemetery and war memorial, in Nicosia, and later on he paid a visit to the 'Imprisoned Graves', the graves of Greek Cypriots hung by the British during the anti-colonial struggle in the mid 50s. Mitsotakis was welcomed at Makedonitissa Tomb by the Minister of Defence Michalis Giorgallas and the National Guard chief, Lieutenant-General Democritos Zervakis, while Minister of Justice and Public Order Anna Koukkides Procopiou welcomed the Greek PM in the site of the 'Imprisoned Graves' located within Nicosia central prison. Demetriou stresses to Mitsotakis importance of Greece - Cyprus coordination The importance of full coordination of Greece and Cyprus' efforts for the resumption of talks within the UN framework for the solution of the Cyprus problem in light of the prospect of normalisation of Greco-Turkish relations was stressed on Monday by President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, during her meeting with the Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, in the context of his official visit to Cyprus. "We stand by the Cypriot people for final vindication," the Greek Prime Minister wrote in the House of Representatives' visitors book. Archbishop tells Greek Premier he hopes that Greece will stand by Cyprus The expectation of the entire Hellenism of Cyprus that Greece will stand by Cyprus in its difficult struggle for liberation, was conveyed on Monday to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis by Archbishop of Cyprus Georgios. Mitsotakis had a meeting with the Archbishop in the context of an official visit he paid Cyprus. Annie Pantazi-Lambrou appointed as European Public Prosecutor in Luxembourg Former Senior District Judge Annie Pantazi-Lambrou has been appointed to the position of European Public Prosecutor at the European Public Prosecutor's Office in Luxembourg. According to a statement, following a decision of the Council of the EU dated 27 June, Pantazi-Lambrou will succeed the first Cypriot European Public Prosecutor, Katerina Loizou, from 29 July for a six-year term of office. Cyprus private debt at pound 218% of GDP in Q1 2023 Private debt in Cyprus (debt by both households and non-financial corporations) amounted to 218% of GDP in the first quarter of 2023, with debt in absolute numbers totalling pound 60.1 billion, the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) has said. According to the Quarterly Financial Accounts published for the end of June 2023, the household debt in end-March amounted to pound 20.2 billion and represented 73% of Cyprus GDP, marking a marginal decline due to GDP expansion. Government surplus increases by pound 155.5 million in the first half of 2023 Cyprus government's surplus for the first half of 2023 increased to pound 155.5 million, equivalent to 0.5% of GDP, compared to a deficit of pound 92.4 million (-0.3% of GDP) for the period of January-June 2022, based on preliminary fiscal results from the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Revenue up 14.2% Total revenue for the period January-June 2023 increased by pound 680.4 million (14.2%) to reach pound 5,468.6 billion compared to pound 4,788.2 billion in the same period of 2022. Industrial output prices up by 4.5% in June on annual basis Industrial output prices increased by 4.5% in June 2023 compared to the corresponding month of the previous year, data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus (CyStat) on Monday show. According to the CyStat, the Producer Price Index in the Industry reached 140.0 units (base year 2015=100) for the month of June 2023, registering a 0.1% increase compared to May 2023. For the period of January-June 2023, the index recorded a 12.0% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2022. Improved Results in Bank of Cyprus's stress test for 2023 The Bank of Cyprus Group announced the successful completion of the EU-wide stress test for 2023. According to the announcement, the results show the Group's resilience under adverse conditions and its ability to maintain organic profitability and sufficient capital even under extreme macroeconomic assumptions. The outcomes for the Group, as well as its resilience to the parameters of the adverse stress test scenario, have shown significant improvements compared to the corresponding exercise in 2021, the bank said in a press release. Hellenic says it's Cyprus' "most adequately capitalised systemic bank" after stress test Hellenic Bank, one of Cyprus' leading financial institutions, has emerged as the most robustly capitalised systemic bank in the country following the successful completion of the European Central Bank's (ECB) stress test for 2023, the bank said. According to a Hellenic Banks' press release, the stress test results 'affirm our position as the most adequately capitalised Systemic Bank in Cyprus, both under baseline and stress conditions and is also reflective of a more resilient credit risk profile.' EU scholarships to 150 students from Turkish Cypriot community The European Union (EU) has selected one hundred fifty (150) new scholars of the 2023 EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community (TCc), a press release by the European Commission states. It is noted that ''the primary goal of the EU Scholarship Programme for the TCc is to promote social ties between the community and the European Union, and thereby helping to foster the reunification of Cyprus.''
Source: Cyprus News Agency