From threat to opportunity

From threat to opportunity

The threats fired against Cyprus this week by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, as far-fetched as they may seem, should not be taken lightly. The Shia cleric and leader of the militant group commands considerable influence in almost everything that happens in Lebanon, from politics to the economy and national defence. Apart from securing vast amounts … Read more

Government refuses to disclose cost of new tax measures

Government refuses to disclose cost of new tax measures

What’s at stake in the EU elections? Together with Aurélie Pugnet – political editor at Brussels-based media outlet Euractiv – journalist Tracy Heindrichs looks at some of the key issues that will matter during the European Parliament elections in June.

Tales from the Coffeeshop: Heatwave produced a whole lot of media hot air

Tales from the Coffeeshop: Heatwave produced a whole lot of media hot air

THE BIGGEST news story over last few days has been that it was very hot. As if anyone in Kyproulla had not felt the scorching heat and had to be informed about it by continuous reports and updates from the media.OK, it was the highest ever temperature recorded in early June, but what more is … Read more

Luxembourg to revamp minimum corporate tax law after just six months

Luxembourg to revamp minimum corporate tax law after just six months

What’s at stake in the EU elections? Together with Aurélie Pugnet – political editor at Brussels-based media outlet Euractiv – journalist Tracy Heindrichs looks at some of the key issues that will matter during the European Parliament elections in June.

Cyprus implemented GRECO recommendations for judges, not MPs or prosecutors

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.

Qatar reportedly interested in Larnaca port project

Qatar reportedly interested in Larnaca port project

The Emir of Qatar’s visit to the Presidential Palace focused on discussing concrete projects rather than indulging in rhetoric. During the meeting, both leaders emphasized specific references and tangible results, agreeing to establish a working committee to review progress every six months. Qatar expressed interest in energy, ports, the financial sector, and technology collaborations. They also discussed political issues such as the Cyprus problem and the situation in Gaza. The Emir’s visit marked a strategic step towards further developing strong bilateral ties between Qatar and Cyprus.

Our View: , ‘Ambassador’ comment an embarrassment for Cyprus

Our View: , ‘Ambassador’ comment an embarrassment for Cyprus

The Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hammad Al Thani visited Cyprus for the first time, accompanied by a delegation of ministers to discuss economic, investment, and tourism cooperation between the two countries. President Nikos Christodoulides welcomed the Emir and emphasized the potential for further strengthening bilateral relations. However, the President made an inappropriate comment by suggesting that Cyprus could act as an ambassador for Qatar in Brussels, which was seen as a breach of diplomatic protocol and raised concerns about the credibility of the Republic.

On This Day: Thirty-nine fans crushed to death in Heysel disaster, in 1939

On This Day: Thirty-nine fans crushed to death in Heysel disaster, in 1939

On May 29, 1953, New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tensing Norgay became the first men to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

Three MEPs headed for re-election

Three MEPs headed for re-election

Three of the six outgoing Cyprus MEPs seem set for re-election, with incumbents Loucas Fourlas, Giorgos Georgiou, and Costas Mavrides expected to retain their seats. The far-right party ELAM could win its first European seat.

Tatar knocking on doors in Brussels

Tatar knocking on doors in Brussels

Ersin Tatar, the representative of occupying Turkey, is seeking “equal international status” with a European stamp for the breakaway regime in Cyprus. He wants meetings and visits abroad to be at the same level as those of President Christodoulides, aiming for full equality with the Republic of Cyprus. Despite efforts mainly in Brussels, Tatar has not been successful in getting the desired level of recognition. However, the Turkish side is finding more support in Turkish-speaking countries like Azerbaijan. The policy of recognizing two states in Cyprus is causing tension, with Ankara potentially resorting to blackmail if faced with an impasse. Turkey is not expected to make any moves before July and will likely wait until after the completion of the UN Special envoy’s mission.