Brussels

Cyprus battles EU sanctions on Russian LNG export tankers, part of new package

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Cyprus battles EU sanctions on Russian LNG export tankers, part of new package

The European Union is considering a new package of sanctions against Russia, including a ban on exports of Russian liquified natural gas. Some member states, such as Cyprus, Greece, and Malta, are skeptical of these measures, believing they could lead to negative consequences in the shipping industry. On the other hand, other countries view the proposed energy sanctions as a step forward. This would be the first time the EU officially targets Russia’s natural gas products. Cyprus has been directly impacted by Russian sanctions in the past, particularly in the administrative services sector.

Meet Paris, ’ black dandies, the Sapeurs

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Meet Paris, ’ black dandies, the Sapeurs

The Sapeurs, known for their offbeat and baroque sartorial style, originated in Central Africa around 1919-1920. They participate in parades and competitions to showcase their skills and abilities in dressing up. The movement gained momentum in the 1950s and expanded to Europe in the 1970s. Sapeurs seek social recognition through luxury brands and use clothing to make a political statement for dignity. They aim to create ambiance and encourage sociability through their colorful and luxurious outfits.

Stellantis CEO: electric vehicle tariffs are a trap

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Stellantis CEO: electric vehicle tariffs are a trap

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares expects a major battle with Chinese rivals in the European market for electric vehicles, warning of significant consequences for jobs and production. The European Commission will unveil an initial decision on potential tariffs on Chinese EV imports on June 5, and China has been threatening counter tariffs. Tavares believes that tariffs would fuel inflation, impact sales and production, and create overcapacity in the European auto sector. Stellantis is in discussions with labor unions about the risks they are facing and how to navigate the challenges ahead. The company will start selling EVs from its Chinese partner, Leapmotor, outside China starting in Europe in September. Tavares aims for Stellantis to be part of the Chinese offensive rather than purely defensive against Chinese competition.

Damianou advocates for robust legislation to secure economic and strategic future

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Damianou advocates for robust legislation to secure economic and strategic future

Fact: Deputy Minister of Research Nicodemos Damianou emphasized the crucial importance of space technology for securing Europe’s economic future, its strategic independence, and its role on the global stage during a gathering of the Space Council in Brussels.

Cyprus mulls Commissioner nominees as EU top jobs loom

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Cyprus mulls Commissioner nominees as EU top jobs loom

Cyprus is considering potential nominees for the next European Commissioner, with current health chief Stella Kyriakides among the names circulating. President Nikos Christodoulides has not ruled out reappointing Kyriakides for another term. Other possible candidates mentioned include Haris Georgiades, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis, and Konstantinos Kombos. The Cypriot shipping lobby is pushing for the transport portfolio, but Cyprus may again get the health portfolio. The new Commission leadership will take over later this year after the European Parliament elections in May.

EU digital policy in focus at ministerial meeting in Brussels

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EU digital policy in focus at ministerial meeting in Brussels

Deputy Minister of Research Nicodemos Damianou is scheduled to travel to Brussels to attend an EU telecommunications ministers meeting. The summit will focus on shaping the European digital landscape, including measures to strengthen the Digital Single Market, regulations such as the Digital Services Act, Artificial Intelligence Act, and Cyber Resilience Act, as well as establishing a Framework for a European Digital Identity. Discussions will also cover cybersecurity, digital skills enhancement, and the need for coordinated efforts among national authorities for digital transformation. A policy debate on the implementation of digital legislation will take place, and conclusions on the future of the EU’s digital policy and cybersecurity strategies are expected to be approved. Damianou will also participate in a Competitiveness Council meeting to discuss the potential creation of a European space law to establish common standards for safety, resilience, and sustainability in space activities. He is expected to return to Cyprus on the evening of Thursday, May 23.

The backstage negotiations behind closed party doors

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The backstage negotiations behind closed party doors

The parties in Cyprus are gearing up for the upcoming double election in June, with big parties trying to unite and small parties aiming to weaken them. The focus is on securing seats in the European Parliament, with major parties concentrating on rallying supporters. The newly formed VOLT party is presented as a progressive alternative to AKEL, while ELAM is focused on increasing its numbers to have a regulatory role in politics. The Ecologists have a solid base for a long continuous presence in parliament.

Tales from the Coffeeshop: Auditor-general far too popular to do anything wrong

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Tales from the Coffeeshop: Auditor-general far too popular to do anything wrong

– The opposition proceedings in the case brought against auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides by attorney-general George Savvides were filed by Odysseas’ team of lawyers.
– The opposition is based on two points: the application of the AG to the constitutional council is groundless and the AG does not have the authority to seek the sacking of an independent state official.
– Odysseas’ camp is applying pressure on the president to publicly side with him.
– The head of the anti-corruption authority demanded criminal charges against the drug squad chief, possibly linked to the Odysseas-Savvides clash.
– Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah urged Syrians to head for Cyprus and Europe to pressure Brussels to give Lebanon more funds for Syrian refugees.
– Parents were upset over the difficulty of questions in modern Greek exams for secondary school students.
– State hospital nursing unions are threatening industrial action if more nurses are not hired.
– The president announced the decision to appoint two criminal investigators before the cabinet approved it.

Elections 2024: Where do you vote?

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Elections 2024: Where do you vote?

A new service was introduced for voters in the upcoming Europarliament and local administration elections to check where they will go to vote on June 9.

MPs struggle to implement EU directive on loans

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MPs struggle to implement EU directive on loans

Fact: Legislators in Cyprus discussed government bills to harmonize current legislation on loan transfers with an EU directive on credit servicers and credit purchasers.