food

Cyprus denies allegations of migrant pushbacks

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Cyprus denies allegations of migrant pushbacks

Cyprus denied allegations of pushing back and threatening migrants during an operation off the coast of Lebanon. The individuals were provided with food and blankets before being sent back, and Cyprus did not push back any of the boats. The UNHCR and EU define pushback as forcibly returning migrants without access to international protection or asylum procedures. The Republic of Cyprus stated that it respects international conventions and acts within the framework of legality. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou emphasized that their actions regarding migration flows comply with international regulations.

Freeland’s new federal budget hikes taxes on the rich to cover billions in new spending | CBC News

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Freeland's new federal budget hikes taxes on the rich to cover billions in new spending | CBC News

Fact: Ottawa plans to spend .9 billion more than planned over the next five years, with a projected billion deficit this fiscal year.

Prince William back to public duties after Kate, ’s cancer revelation

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Prince William back to public duties after Kate, ’s cancer revelation

Prince William returned to public duties for the first time since his wife Kate revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy for cancer.

Prince William back to public duties after wife Kate’s cancer revelation

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Prince William back to public duties after wife Kate’s cancer revelation

Prince William returned to public duties for the first time since his wife Kate revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy for cancer. Kate, the Princess of Wales, shared in a video message that tests following surgery uncovered cancer, which was a shock. William appeared in good spirits during a visit to a food redistribution charity and a youth center, receiving ‘get well soon’ cards for Kate and his father, King Charles, who is also undergoing cancer treatment. Kate will return to public duties when her medical team deems her well enough, with no specific timeline given.

Amid spat, Elam proposes to gain support to halve asylum application time

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Amid spat, Elam proposes to gain support to halve asylum application time

Far-right Elam has proposed to halve the time refugees have to file asylum applications or appeals in court, with government-supporting parties showing support for the idea.

Migration: Difficult to reassess areas of Syria as safe, MEP says

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Migration: Difficult to reassess areas of Syria as safe, MEP says

Cyprus is suspending the processing of asylum applications due to an increase in Syrian arrivals from Lebanon. The country wants EU partners to reassess the safety of certain areas in Syria to block asylum applications. MEP Fabienne Keller expressed scepticism, highlighting the challenges posed by Syria’s unstable situation and authoritarian leadership. Keller emphasized the need for support for Cyprus, as it faces a high number of asylum applications per capita. Meanwhile, MEP Tomas Tobé called for EU member states to unite and address the migration crisis collectively, urging a common position on Syria. Cyprus wants EU partners to reconsider the status of Syria, as it believes certain areas are safe for returnees.

Around 500 people reportedly stranded on boats off Cyprus

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Around 500 people reportedly stranded on boats off Cyprus

Cypriot authorities are monitoring five boats carrying around 500 migrants heading towards the island’s shores from Lebanon. Two boats were intercepted in international waters, negotiations are ongoing with Lebanon, and the fate of the remaining three boats is unknown. The operation involves Cypriot Marine Police and the National Guard, and the government has suspended the processing of asylum applications amid a sharp increase in the number of Syrians arriving from Lebanon.

Cyprus reportedly pushed back boats carrying 500 migrants

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Cyprus reportedly pushed back boats carrying 500 migrants

Cypriot authorities pushed back five boats carrying around 500 migrants who started from Lebanon, believed to be from Syria. The authorities provided blankets and food before forcing the boats to turn back. It is unclear if the boats will return to Lebanon or try to reach Cyprus again. The Lebanese authorities did not want to take them back, leaving the migrants stranded at sea. The Mediterranean crossing remains the deadliest route for migrants, with over 3,000 deaths and disappearances recorded last year. The Cypriot operation was kept secret, with the Minister of the Interior declining to provide details. Nicosia suspended asylum applications due to an increase in Syrian arrivals from Lebanon, citing human rights violations in Syria. Pushbacks involve state measures to force refugees out without following legal procedures.

Two Fork Food Markets whet the appetite

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Two Fork Food Markets whet the appetite

– The popular outdoor Fork Food Markets are back, celebrating their 10th anniversary this year.
– The Nicosia Municipal Gardens will host two events in April and May.
– Cyprus now has serious proposals when it comes to street food.
– The goal of Fork Food Market is to offer an alternative night out and make good food accessible to everyone.
– The next Fork Food event will be on April 26 and May 10 at the Nicosia Municipal Gardens.

Cyprus beefs up efforts to stop irregular migration, patrol off Lebanon

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Cyprus beefs up efforts to stop irregular migration, patrol off Lebanon

A Cypriot law enforcement vessel was spotted off the coast of Lebanon as part of efforts to prevent Syrian refugees from reaching the island on small boats. Nicosia has suspended processing asylum applications due to an increase in Syrian arrivals and wants EU partners to reconsider Syria’s status. The presence of the vessel has led to up to five boatloads of refugees being prevented from continuing their journey.