Government unveils national autism strategy
Fact: Cabinet approved the creation of a national autism strategy and action plan, covering the period until 2028 with 53 actions under seven thematic pillars.
meeting
Government seeks EU support for Lebanon migration deterrence
Cyprus seeks to secure a package similar to Egypt for Lebanon to deter illegal migrant trafficking. President Christodoulides plans to involve Ursula von der Leyen in negotiations with Lebanon, following discussions with the EU Commission President. The Cypriot government’s focus is on coordinating with the EU to address increased migration flows, with efforts continuing to designate safe areas in Syria.
Law Office reviews cases of Russian sanctions breach
The Law Office reviewed over 40 cases involving potential violations of US economic sanctions against Russian businessmen. Three cases have been completed, including one involving Russian magnate Alexey Mordashov. Indictments will soon be prepared for some cases, with investigations at an advanced stage. The decision to prosecute will depend on whether the violation occurred during a grace period or after the publication of sanctions in the Official Gazette. Some individuals may not have been aware of their inclusion in the sanctions until their announcement. Experts from the FBI recently visited Cyprus for guidance on investigating sanctions-related cases.
Cyprus set to host WHO small states health initiative
Cyprus is hosting the World Health Organisation’s meeting of the small countries initiative in the European region. The meeting will focus on cancer, health and climate change, and countries will report progress on various health-related issues.
Our View: Failure to help Lebanon would be disaster for Cyprus
President Nikos Christodoulides visited Lebanon to address the increased flow of Syrian refugees to Cyprus, with over 15 boats carrying 800 migrants arriving in the last week. The president discussed ways to stop the influx with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and agreed on messages to convey to the Lebanese government. Cyprus would push for a bigger EU assistance package for Lebanon if the flow of migrants stopped, implying that lack of action from Lebanon could affect the aid. Lebanon, home to two million Syrian refugees, has received minimal EU support compared to other countries like Turkey and Egypt. The effectiveness of Lebanon’s government in tackling trafficking networks remains uncertain.
‘Govt not interfering in monastery scandal investigations’
The government rejected accusations of efforts to spare Tamassos Bishop Isaias of any criminal charges amid ongoing investigations of a major scandal surrounding the Osiou Avakoum monastery.
Swords crossed over Turkish Cypriot properties
Interior ministry and audit service are in disagreement over proposed changes to laws regulating the management of Turkish Cypriot properties. The interior ministry believes that allowing Turkish Cypriot properties to be inherited by relatives of refugees residing in them will resolve inequality and feelings of injustice among displaced persons. The ministry also stated that inheritance refers to the license to use the property, not ownership. Auditor-General Odysseas Michaelides expressed concerns that well-off individuals may end up with Turkish Cypriot properties, while homeless refugees may be left without housing. The committee chairman noted that there are reservations about the transfer of properties to non-refugees and potential political issues related to succession.
Spanish PM to lobby EU partners for Palestinian state recognition
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is meeting with several EU counterparts to seek support for recognizing a Palestinian state. He aims to address the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and push for a two-state solution. Spain, Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia are working together towards Palestinian state recognition, despite Israel’s opposition. Sanchez will visit Oslo and Dublin to discuss this issue with Norway and Ireland’s leaders.
National Council meeting shelved for , ‘when time is right’
The government has rebuffed calls to convene a National Council meeting amid secrecy surrounding the UNSG proposals that President Nikos Christodoulides has agreed to.
30,000 companies face fines for non-compliance
Almost 30,000 companies have yet to make updated disclosures about their Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) and could face fines for non-compliance.