President of the Republic

‘, Still a lack of trust on halloumi issue’

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‘, Still a lack of trust on halloumi issue’

President Nikos Christodoulides received delegations from associations involved in the halloumi making process. The lack of trust was evident during the meeting, which lasted about three and a half hours. The government’s objectives are to preserve halloumi as a PDO and its status as the main export product of Cyprus. The dialogue will continue with new rounds of meetings under the Minister of Agriculture, and decisions will be made soon with these objectives in mind.

Housing policy and strengthening of the HFC

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Housing policy and strengthening of the HFC

The Housing Finance Corporation has lost its social character due to understaffing, leading to delays in loan processing that frustrate potential borrowers. This issue was highlighted in a recent report, emphasizing the urgent need to address housing as a social issue. AKEL and SEK are calling for the government to strengthen the HFC and implement measures to help middle and lower-income households acquire housing. The state must provide immediate solutions to address the critical housing problem faced by citizens, especially the youth.

It will need courage and willingness of all parties to restart the talks, says German Ambassador

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It will need courage and willingness of all parties to restart the talks, says German Ambassador

Germany and Europe are preparing for two significant events: the European Parliament elections and the UEFA EURO 2024 football tournament in Germany. The German Ambassador to Cyprus expressed concern about the rise of right-wing parties in the elections and emphasized Germany’s support for a solution to the Cyprus issue based on UN resolutions. Germany aims to host EURO 2024 as a symbol of cohesion in Europe, promoting sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. Germany also advocates for a strong and united EU, despite facing challenges like Putin’s war in Ukraine. The 2004 enlargement of the EU serves as a lesson on the importance of unity and speaking with one voice in foreign policy. Germany’s proposals for EU decision-making reform aim to ensure the Union remains capable of action. Germany is committed to supporting Cyprus in finding a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue, emphasizing the importance of confidence-building between Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot communities.

“Casts of an Island” Cypriot modern art exhibition opens in restored Carob Warehouse

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“Casts of an Island” Cypriot modern art exhibition opens in restored Carob Warehouse

A landmark exhibition called “Casts of an Island 2024” opened in Limassol, Cyprus, showcasing 120 artworks by 43 artists. The exhibition is curated by collector Nicos Chr. Pattichis and is housed in the former Carob Warehouse, now transformed into a cultural space by the PSI Foundation. The exhibition coincides with the 50th anniversary of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and features a variety of artworks, including political pieces inspired by the event.

Qatar, other suitors interested in Larnaca marina

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Qatar, other suitors interested in Larnaca marina

Interest in Larnaca’s marina and port remains high despite the divorce between the Government and Kition Ocean Holdings. The Emir of Qatar has shown interest in the project, along with other suitors within the country. The proposal to separate the project and focus on the marina has gained ground, with the Government open to discussions and forming a working group to expedite the process. The Larnaca Municipality demands greater involvement in the project’s future, with plans for a committee to conduct a techno-economic study. The matter will be discussed in the House Transport Committee, and the Ministry of Transport will take over the management of the marina.

Supreme Court to rule on opposition proceedings over auditor-general, ’s dismissal on June 5 (Update)

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Supreme Court to rule on opposition proceedings over auditor-general, ’s dismissal on June 5 (Update)

The Supreme Constitutional Court is set to announce its decision on June 5 on whether attorney-general George Savvides is constitutionally allowed to initiate dismissal proceedings against auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides.

Larnaca port workers handed termination letters

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Larnaca port workers handed termination letters

Employees of Larnaca’s port and marina received termination letters from Kition Ocean Holdings Ltd following the project’s collapse. The meeting between the workers’ representatives and the Ministers of Labour and Transport was postponed until Thursday afternoon. The workers were assured that a solution would be found to ensure they are not victimized, and discussions were held regarding their employment status. The new operator taking over the port’s operations should employ the current workers under the same terms and conditions. The President of the Republic reassured that there should be no concern for the workers regarding the port issue. The €1.2 billion contract with Kition Ocean Holdings was terminated by the Minister of Transport, Communications, and Works.

Turkish scenario takes Holguin and the UN out of the Cyprus issue equation

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Turkish scenario takes Holguin and the UN out of the Cyprus issue equation

Occupying Turkey is preparing moves following the end of the mission of the UN Secretary General’s envoy on the Cyprus problem. Ankara and its representative in the occupied territories are planning action if a deadlock is established. They aim to change the basis of the Cyprus problem, impose their agenda, and reach a “cooperation agreement” between the two entities. Turkey is pressuring the United Nations to negotiate a separate agreement, but the UN has deemed this illegal. The occupation forces are causing minor crises within the buffer zone to assert control over the area.

President for Vasilikos: The state cannot be blackmailed; there is a plan B but I don’t want to get to that point

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President for Vasilikos: The state cannot be blackmailed; there is a plan B but I don’t want to get to that point

President Nikos Christodoulides is in contact with the company and various EU and non-EU member states to create prospects for the resumption of talks. The Vasilikos terminal project has three phases, with progress varying in each. The President will meet with the Ambassador of China to discuss the project, emphasizing the need for solutions to be found with goodwill. A plan B exists, but the government intends to proceed with the contract obligations.

France to send extra military aid to Ukraine shortly, says Elysee

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France to send extra military aid to Ukraine shortly, says Elysee

France will provide additional military aid to Ukraine in the coming days and weeks, as confirmed by the Elysee after a phone call between President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Macron expressed support for a truce during the Paris Olympics this summer, with Russia ceasing operations and diplomatic negotiations being pursued.