Cyprus talks circumstances , “not auspicious”
President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated that the government’s sole goal is the liberation and reunification of Cyprus based on UN resolutions.
Nikos Christodoulides
‘, Light on the horizon for Vasiliko’
Energy Minister George Papanastasiou stated that there is progress in the construction of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Vasiliko, with consultations ongoing between Cyprus’ natural gas infrastructure company and the Chinese state-owned company CPP Metron. The terminal is crucial for importing LNG to reduce electricity costs in the Republic of Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides denied discussions of a “velvet divorce” with CPP over the terminal, emphasizing that efforts are continuing.
Turkish Cypriots and abstention will decide the outcome of the elections
The political landscape in Cyprus remains uncertain a week before the double election showdown. The top spot in the European elections is a close contest between DISY and AKEL, with DIKO and ELAM battling for third place. The percentages that DIKO and ELAM achieve are crucial, as their race could result in higher-than-expected percentages for both parties. The smaller parties are also uncertain about the support they will receive. A key factor in the upcoming elections is the turnout of Turkish Cypriot voters, with an estimated increase in participation expected. This increase could potentially influence the final results, especially in the battle between AKEL and DISY for the top spot. DISY’s level of voter consolidation will also play a critical role in the election outcome, as it could impact the percentages of other parties. Discontent and disagreements within DISY may lead to alternative votes going to parties like ELAM or independent candidate Phidias Panayiotou.
What, ’s going on with public contracts?
The Cyprus government has scrapped a €1.2 billion concession for the development of the Larnaca marina and port, leading to questions about the financial viability of public contracts and the administration’s cash flow.
“Casts of an Island” Cypriot modern art exhibition opens in restored Carob Warehouse
A landmark exhibition called “Casts of an Island 2024” opened in Limassol, Cyprus, showcasing 120 artworks by 43 artists. The exhibition is curated by collector Nicos Chr. Pattichis and is housed in the former Carob Warehouse, now transformed into a cultural space by the PSI Foundation. The exhibition coincides with the 50th anniversary of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and features a variety of artworks, including political pieces inspired by the event.
No , ‘velvet divorce’ over Vasiliko LNG terminal
There are ongoing efforts to find a solution for the Vasiliko liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project, with no discussions of a “velvet divorce” with Chinese state-owned company CPP.
‘No reason for workers to fear for jobs’
Workers hired by Kition Ocean Holdings do not need to be concerned about the future of their employment as the government is committed to keeping the project going. The government terminated its agreement with Kition Ocean Holdings due to their failure to pay the financial guarantee. The port authority has the capability to take on the project. Workers who were fired by Kition Ocean Holdings will transition their employment to the Larnaca and Famagusta District Development Agency.
‘We have no other choice but to overturn status quo’
– Cypriots have “no other choice” but to attempt to overturn the divided island’s status quo.
– The current state of affairs in Cyprus “cannot be the future of our homeland.”
– President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized the need for a solution to the Cyprus problem based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with European principles and values as its foundation.
– The government is encouraging the efforts of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his recently departed envoy on the island Maria Angela Holguin.
– The pain on the faces of people affected by the events of 1974 is recorded in the photographs on display at the exhibition.
– The events of 1974, including the Turkish invasion and destruction, are described as an “unspeakable tragedy.”
President in talks with UN over migrants in buffer zone
President Nikos Christodoulides is in contact with the UN peacekeeping force regarding 13 migrants reported to be living in the buffer zone near the university grounds. The migrants are from Afghanistan, Iran, Sudan, and Cameroon and had come from the north after being denied entrance to the state-controlled areas. The UN peacekeeping force is working with UNCHR to provide humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable migrants.
Larnaca port workers stage protest against Kition (update)
Workers at the Larnaca port staged a protest against former port operator Kition Ocean Holdings over fears regarding their pay after Kition’s contract was terminated by the government. The government reached a deal with the workers to ensure their continued employment while searching for a new operator. Qatar has shown interest in taking over the port’s running. President Christodoulides wants the issue to be handled immediately.