peace

Ino Afentouli: Cyprus’ solidarity towards Israel should not stop

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Ino Afentouli: Cyprus’ solidarity towards Israel should not stop

Last week, the world saw Iran’s attack on Israel amidst ongoing tensions in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the thin line between tension and conflict in the Middle East. Ino Afentouli, from Panteion University, emphasized that a regional conflict involving Iran and Israel would have adverse consequences for Cyprus and Greece. The conflict has halted economic cooperation and development plans in the region. Afentouli also mentioned that Cyprus could face increased migrant flows similar to those seen during the war in Syria. She emphasized the importance of solidarity with Israel for Cyprus and Greece, despite supporting the rights of the Palestinian people. The conflict could have significant impacts on Europe’s security and stability.

Cyprus , ‘consistent’ on Kosovo non-recognition

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Cyprus , ‘consistent’ on Kosovo non-recognition

Cyprus maintains its long-standing position of not recognizing unilaterally declared independence, including that of Kosovo. Cyprus’ Foreign Minister is expected to vote against Kosovan membership in the Council of Europe. The resolution passed inviting Kosovo to join the Council of Europe and have three seats in the Pace, similar to Cyprus.

Winners of Stelios bicommunal awards announced

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Winners of Stelios bicommunal awards announced

Fact: A total of 10 bicommunal business ventures were crowned winners of the Stelios Foundation Bicommunal Business Awards, each winning €20,000.

Immigration and economy: biggest concerns for Cypriots

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Immigration and economy: biggest concerns for Cypriots

– Immigration and the economy are the biggest worries for around 40 per cent of Cypriots going into the EU elections.
– Climate action, gender equality and diversity, and digitisation of the economy are bottom of the list of concerns for Cypriots.
– 55 per cent of Cypriots were interested in the EU elections.
– Migration topped the list of concerns for immediate discussion for 41 per cent of Cypriots.
– Cypriots were more worried about the economy and jobs compared with their European counterparts.
– Only 5 per cent of Cypriots are concerned about the digitisation of the economy.
– Cypriots were more concerned, after economy and migration, with fighting poverty and social inclusion, and public health.
– 51 per cent of Cypriots said they were optimistic about the future of the EU.
– The majority of Cypriots expect their standard of living to drop in the coming five years.
– The majority of Cypriots cited ‘peace and security’ as the number one issue the EU should defend in the future.

UN committee unable to agree on Palestinian bid for full membership

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UN committee unable to agree on Palestinian bid for full membership

The United Nations Security Council committee did not reach a unanimous recommendation on the Palestinian Authority’s application to become a full U.N. member. The Palestinian Authority is expected to push for a vote on the draft resolution recommending its full membership. This move would effectively recognize a Palestinian state, which is currently a non-member observer state. The U.S. has stated that an independent Palestinian state should be established through direct negotiations, not at the United Nations. The Security Council committee was unable to agree on whether the Palestinian application met all the criteria for membership.

California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

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California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

The University of Southern California canceled the valedictorian speech of Muslim student Asna Tabassum due to safety concerns and tensions surrounding the Middle East conflict. USC Provost Andrew Guzman stated that the decision was made to protect campus security, as discussions about the valedictorian selection had become alarming. Tabassum challenged the university’s rationale, questioning if the decision was solely based on safety. USC faced opposition from groups like Trojans for Israel and We Are Tov, who called for Tabassum’s removal as commencement speaker, citing her social media profile and past views on Palestine and Israel. Tabassum’s invitation to speak was withdrawn without USC reviewing her speech, leading to criticism and calls for her reinstatement from groups like the Council on American Islamic Relations.

‘Turkey trying to justify aggression toward Cyprus’

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‘Turkey trying to justify aggression toward Cyprus’

Turkey is following an ‘à la carte’ approach to UN Security Council resolutions, rejecting or branding them as obsolete when they do not align with its narrative, according to the Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the UN, Ambassador Maria Michael.

Govt taking all measures for security

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Govt taking all measures for security

The government of Cyprus is taking all necessary measures for security following Iran’s attack on Israel. Current indications do not point to immediate danger, and Cyprus is not involved in any attacks. Cyprus does not believe in solving problems with attacks.