government

Contract soldiers receive pay rise

by
Contract soldiers receive pay rise

Professional soldiers received a pay rise after the cabinet approved a proposal made by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas. The new pay scales will come into effect from July 1, with soldiers now on the public sector A2-A5-A7 scale. The government aims to strengthen the value of the National Guard by improving operational capacity through the hiring of contract soldiers. Future contract soldier recruits will be hired for a total of 10 years of service based on consecutive contracts ranging between a year and three years in length.

Analysis: Why German politicians are facing growing violence

by
Analysis: Why German politicians are facing growing violence

German politicians have been experiencing a surge in physical and verbal attacks, with 22 assaults reported so far in 2024 compared to 27 in all of 2023. The Green party has been the most targeted, with 1,219 incidents reported last year, followed by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party with 478 incidents. The rise in confrontations is attributed to the divisive rhetoric of populist politics, affecting the overall mood and safety of politicians. The attacks have led to concerns about the impact on election outcomes and have prompted some politicians to take precautions, such as avoiding publicizing campaign events and increasing security measures.

Time for the red card?

by
Time for the red card?

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.

House unanimously rejects Christodoulides, ’ police law change

by
House unanimously rejects Christodoulides, ’ police law change

Parliament unanimously rejected a law proposed by President Nikos Christodoulides, which would have allowed the police chief to unilaterally appoint and promote specialist staff regardless of their qualifications. Instead, the legislation sent back to Christodoulides allows the police chief to appoint specialist staff under certain conditions and upon the approval of the justice minister. The government argues that parliament’s version of the law is unconstitutional as it violates Article 80 of the constitution. Independent MP Kostis Efstathiou raised concerns about Christodoulides’ version of the law, stating that it would put democracy at risk.

Parents federation condemns school vandalism

by
Parents federation condemns school vandalism

Fact: The federation of Larnaca parents associations expressed sadness and indignation over the Holy Saturday vandalism of Livadia’s primary school on Friday.

Chrystia Freeland defends carbon tax, dismisses leadership speculation

by
Chrystia Freeland defends carbon tax, dismisses leadership speculation

The text discusses Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland defending the government’s budget and carbon tax at a parliamentary committee. Freeland dismissed political speculation and emphasized the importance of a credible climate policy.

Who are Israel’s main weapons suppliers and who has halted exports?

by
Who are Israel’s main weapons suppliers and who has halted exports?

The United States suspended a shipment of heavy, bunker-busting bombs to Israel amid concerns about their impact in dense urban settings like Rafah. Germany increased defense export approvals for Israel after an attack by Hamas, but has since approved fewer exports due to international criticism. Italy halted new export approvals to Israel since the start of the Gaza war, with the last orders delivered in November. Britain grants export licenses for defense equipment to Israel, while Canada stopped licensing arms exports to Israel to ensure compliance with humanitarian law. The Netherlands halted shipments of parts for F-35 jets to Israel due to concerns about violations of humanitarian law.

Timur Turlov discusses Cyprus operations: Freedom24, ’s key to European market

by
Timur Turlov discusses Cyprus operations: Freedom24, ’s key to European market

Fact: Freedom Holding Corp. is planning to obtain banking licenses in Cyprus as part of its strategic priorities.

Our View: Cyprus has much to celebrate when it comes to its EU membership

by
Our View: Cyprus has much to celebrate when it comes to its EU membership

Cyprus has been a member of the European Union for 20 years, leading to political, economic, and social growth. Membership has brought about increased accountability, transparency, and protection of citizens’ rights. The EU has also provided a level of security and protection against Turkey. However, membership has led to complacency regarding the Cyprus problem, with politicians believing there is no need for a settlement. President Nikos Christodoulides believes that the country has transformed for the better in the past 20 years.

Slovenia to recognise Palestinian state by mid-June

by
Slovenia to recognise Palestinian state by mid-June

The Slovenian government has initiated the procedure for the recognition of a Palestinian state as a way to help end the conflict in Gaza. This decision was made to encourage negotiations and speed up dialogue in the United Nations for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. Other European Union member states are also considering recognizing a Palestinian state, with Slovenia aiming to complete the recognition process by June 13 at the latest. Israel has criticized this move, calling it a “prize for terrorism” that could hinder peaceful resolution to the conflict.