Invest Cyprus participated in the Annual Investment Meeting 2024 in Abu Dhabi to promote Cyprus as an investment destination and gateway to the EU. The delegation, led by CEO Marios Tannousis, focused on attracting investments, creating job opportunities, and strengthening the Cypriot economy. They also visited Kuwait to discuss investment opportunities and challenges with high-profile officials.
France won a record 15 billion euros in foreign investment pledges, with Microsoft announcing a 4 billion euro investment in cloud and AI infrastructure. Other companies like Amazon, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Novartis also pledged investments in France. Macron’s administration has faced criticism over public finances but has focused on attracting foreign investments to create jobs and boost the economy.
UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin will prepare a report after her visit to Cyprus and meet with UNSG Antonio Guterres. The people of Cyprus deserve dialogue between the two parties, according to Holguin. Tatar rejected the suggestion of a trilateral meeting, stating that negotiations can only resume with confirmation of sovereign equality and equal international status for the Turkish Cypriot side.
Monday 13 May will be crucial for the Cyprus problem, with meetings in Nicosia and Ankara focusing on the outcome and future developments. The Greek Cypriot side expects Turkey to make a move to push Ersin Tatar back to the table, while Tatar insists on his conditions being met before entering talks. The UN and international actors expect both sides to make moves to break the deadlock. President Christodoulides mentioned exchanging ideas with the UN envoy, emphasizing the agreed framework for a solution. The focus is on gestures that will facilitate a joint meeting between the two leaders and the UN side.
Ankara is undermining the UN Secretary General’s envoy on Cyprus and is moving towards implementing Plan B for two states. The envoy’s efforts have not progressed, and the occupation side is pushing for the envoy’s contract not to be renewed. Ankara is focused on upgrading the pseudo-state and preparing for recognition.
UN Secretary-General’s personal envoy Maria Angel Holguin has not found common ground for new talks on the Cyprus problem.
Ms Holguin is hoping to see and understand more than those who have been deeply involved in the Cyprus issue for a long time. It is noted that there is a lack of seriousness towards the statements made by leaders and politicians regarding the national issue. Civil society in Cyprus has various conflicting opinions on how to move forward, including preferences for a unitary state, a bizonal, bicommunal federation, a two-state solution, or maintaining the status quo. Ms Holguin has expressed a desire for leaders to listen to civil society, but it is uncertain if she fully comprehends the complexities of the issue. It is suggested that her focus should be on her meetings with key officials to gauge the true sentiments and potential for progress.
The occupying side is demanding to be acknowledged as a state entity before any process begins. The United Nations and the Republic of Cyprus will not accept the Turkish terms, as they fall outside their mandate. Recognizing the occupation regime would be self-destructive for the Republic of Cyprus, and this will not happen under any circumstances.
The United Arab Emirates tourist market for Cyprus is steadily rising, with a 14% increase in arrivals from the UAE last year. Meetings were held with airlines and travel agents to increase tourist flows from the UAE and Middle Eastern countries. Discussions also focused on strengthening demand from India and forming strategic partnerships with the UAE in the investment sector.
Fact: Cyprus played a crucial role in busting an Austrian cryptocurrency scam that resulted in six arrests across three EU countries.