Cyprus implemented GRECO recommendations for judges, not MPs or prosecutors
Cyprus has fully implemented 75% of the recommendations regarding prosecutors, but only 25% of the recommendations regarding MPs.
USA
Tototheo Global debut targets expansion beyond maritime horizons
Tototheo Maritime has rebranded to Tototheo Global, showcasing their evolution into a global leader in technology solutions. They will deliver services across multiple sectors with a focus on connectivity, IoT, AI-driven analytics, and custom software development. The company aims to enhance global connectivity and drive innovation across various industries.
AI, cybersecurity conference in Cyprus
An international conference on artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity in civil and military aviation will be held next Thursday. The conference is expected to have over 90 attendees and will feature speakers from international and European organizations, as well as the USA, Asia, and the Middle East. AI and cybersecurity are crucial in the aviation sector, with 42 million flights worldwide carrying 4.5 billion passengers each year. The event will focus on highlighting the benefits and challenges of AI and suggest partnerships between relevant international organizations and states.
Headquarters Question: Where Could UBS Relocate?
Fact: UBS currently pays around 18.5 percent on its profits in Switzerland, derived from a mixed calculation of cantonal rates, with Zurich at 19.61 percent and Basel-Stadt at 13.04 percent.
El Salvador mined nearly 474 bitcoins, adding to state crypto holding, in last three years
El Salvador has mined nearly 474 bitcoins since 2021 thanks to a volcano-fueled geothermal power plant, bringing the government’s total bitcoin portfolio to nearly 4 million at current prices.
The far-right has already been normalised
The rise of the far-right is becoming normalized in Cyprus and beyond, with political parties adopting its rhetoric in an attempt to tame it. This normalization is not exclusive to Cyprus or Greece, as far-right parties are gaining power in countries like Italy, Hungary, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Romania, Slovakia, Czechia, Belgium, the USA, and Argentina. The far-right’s communication skills and appeal in a conspiracy-obsessed society are contributing to its success, raising concerns about a return to pseudo-eugenic and misanthropic theories reminiscent of the Middle Ages.
Israeli forces mass on Rafah’s outskirts as US warns a major assault could halt arms
Israeli forces massed tanks near Rafah in response to U.S. President Biden’s threat to withhold weapons if a major invasion occurred. Ceasefire talks in Cairo continued as Palestinian militant groups engaged in battles with Israeli forces on the outskirts of Rafah. The U.S. paused delivery of bombs to Israel due to civilian risks, causing concern for Israel’s ability to neutralize Hamas. Thousands of Palestinians fled to Deir Al-Balah, fearing a humanitarian catastrophe in Rafah. Israel’s assault on Gaza has resulted in the deaths of thousands of Palestinians, with the U.N. warning of a looming humanitarian crisis.
Former US Ambassador to Cyprus, Judith Garber, passes away at 63
Judith Garber, former US Ambassador to Cyprus, passed away at the age of 63. She served as Ambassador from 2019 to 2022 and had previously held positions in Latvia and the State Department. Her funeral will be held in Virginia on May 9.
Biggest owner of UK stocks warns LSE against weaker listing rules
The biggest collective owners of UK shares have warned the London Stock Exchange against weakening its listing rules and governance standards to attract fresh business.
Japan tells US that Biden’s ‘xenophobia’ comment is regrettable
Japan has expressed regret over U.S. President Joe Biden’s comment that “xenophobia” is hindering the country’s economic growth. Despite this, Japan’s ties with the United States remain strong, with Tokyo aiming to strengthen them further. Biden had stated that immigration has been beneficial for the U.S. economy, contrasting it with countries like China, Japan, Russia, and India, which he claimed are struggling due to being xenophobic towards immigrants. Japan, known for its homogeneity, has been hesitant about immigration but is facing a labor shortage due to declining birthrates and an aging population. Prime Minister Kishida mentioned the possibility of inviting skilled workers to Japan but ruled out a comprehensive immigration program, citing resistance within Japanese society towards continuous immigration from overseas.