European Commission

Benefits of cable sought before investment decision made

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Benefits of cable sought before investment decision made

The government of Cyprus has asked Greece’s Independent Power Transmission Operator (Admie) to carry out a cost-benefit analysis for the Great Sea Interconnector project, which aims to link the electricity grids of Cyprus, Greece, and Israel. The project, previously known as the EuroAsia Interconnector, is estimated to cost €1.9 billion. Cyprus is considering investing €100 million in the project and wants an updated analysis before making a final decision.

Auditor-general calls for accountability over Natura 2000 mess-up

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Auditor-general calls for accountability over Natura 2000 mess-up

Fact: Cyprus has been referred to the EU Court of Justice by the European Commission for failures to implement the Habitats Directive in environmentally protected Natura 2000 areas.

EU admin needs to be fit for green, AI future, says top official

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EU admin needs to be fit for green, AI future, says top official

Fact: European Union countries’ budget cuts have resulted in reduced staff in public administration and delayed training or introduction of new technologies.

Microsoft to separate Teams and Office globally amid antitrust scrutiny

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Microsoft to separate Teams and Office globally amid antitrust scrutiny

Microsoft will now sell its chat and video app Teams separately from its Office product globally, following an unbundling in Europe to avoid potential EU antitrust fines. Teams, added to Office 365 in 2017, replaced Skype for Business and became popular during the pandemic for video conferencing. The unbundling addresses feedback from the European Commission and provides more flexibility for multinational companies. Prices for Office without Teams range from .75 to .75 for new customers, while Teams Standalone will cost .25. Microsoft risks antitrust charges and fines for bundling products, with potential fines of up to 10% of its global annual turnover if found guilty.

Blue Limassol Forum 2024 to focus on climate-neutral cities

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Blue Limassol Forum 2024 to focus on climate-neutral cities

Limassol Municipality and Frederick University’s Department of Maritime and Commerce are collaboratively organizing the Blue Limassol Forum 2024, which is focused on the EU Mission for climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030. Limassol was honored with the “EU Mission Label” by the European Commission, marking a significant milestone towards the city’s transition to climate neutrality. Limassol aims to become a green and smart city by 2030, ahead of most European cities. The forum serves as a platform for raising awareness and fostering dialogue on key issues related to the Blue Economy and Coastal Sustainability. Limassol is one of the 100 EU cities participating in the Cities Mission, with Frederick University acting as a scientific advisor for the “Coastal and Port” thematic area. The event will feature discussions on the transformative potential and benefits for coastal communities and marine ecosystems under the EU Mission for Climate Neutral Cities.

How businesses are turning ESG into a competitive advantage

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How businesses are turning ESG into a competitive advantage

Businesses have the power and responsibility to tackle big issues like climate change, inequality, and social injustice.

Passport checks for air travellers lifted as Bulgaria and Romania join EU, ’s Schengen

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Passport checks for air travellers lifted as Bulgaria and Romania join EU, ’s Schengen

Fact: Airports in Sofia and Bucharest have removed passport check points for those departing to or arriving from most European Union member states as Bulgaria and Romania partially joined the Schengen open-travel zone.

‘Cyprus’ economy is doing better than most of EU’

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‘Cyprus’ economy is doing better than most of EU’

Fact: Finance Minister Makis Keravnos stated that Cyprus’ economy is performing better than most countries in the European Union.

Ideology should not determine choice of leader

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Ideology should not determine choice of leader

The European People’s Party (EPP) nominated Ursula von der Leyen for another term as European Commission President at their congress in Bucharest. Mario Draghi, former Italian Prime Minister and President of the European Central Bank, is considered the favorite for the position of Commission President based on his leadership during the world economic crisis and transformation of Italy.

RRF funds in jeopardy as EAC-CyTA deal goes sour

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RRF funds in jeopardy as EAC-CyTA deal goes sour

A deal between state-owned companies for the supply of electricity smart meters has been ruled unlawful by a special court, putting €35 million in European taxpayers’ funds at risk.