The meeting regarding the electrical connection between Cyprus and Crete concluded without an agreement. Although there was no positive outcome, the Energy Ministers stated that the discussion was constructive and will continue. Minister Skilakakis refrained from expressing optimism for a future agreement. The process will continue at a political level as well.
This morning, a major burglary was reported in Limassol, where unknown individuals entered an apartment and stole property worth €820,000. The culprits managed to open a safe located in a specific area and took jewelry, watches, and cash. However, their actions were recorded by security cameras. The police are seeking information to help locate the suspects.
In 2011, the Cypriot Cabinet granted citizenship to a Syrian businessman and cousin of President Assad, despite his involvement in corruption scandals. Four months later, due to the situation in Syria and European Union sanctions, the government revoked his citizenship and that of his family. The Supreme Constitutional Court upheld this decision, stating that his actions were contrary to the moral values of Cypriot society. This case highlights the ethical and legal challenges of granting citizenship to individuals connected with repressive regimes.
A significant meeting is taking place at the Presidential Palace regarding the electric cable. Participants took a short break before resuming discussions. There are no details about the discussions or whether solutions have been found among the governments and companies involved. Negotiations are expected to continue late into the day.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released new data on deposit and loan interest rates to enhance transparency. It was noted that lending rates in Cyprus are higher compared to the declining deposit rates. The data includes average interest rate offers from various banks. The banks with the highest deposit rates were highlighted, and the rates for housing loans show significant fluctuations.
Twenty foreign individuals attempted to leave Cyprus for Italy by boat, paying up to €2,500 to smugglers. The authorities arrested two Syrians as smugglers, and the boat was located by the Coast Guard. Among the passengers were families with children, and some were asylum seekers. The foreigners were transferred to accommodation centers following their discovery.
An expert testified before the Synodical Court that the controversial videos of the monks are authentic. The monks opposed the authenticity, with their lawyer questioning the recording of dialogues. They claim their communications with Metropolitan Isaiah are genuine, but further investigation is needed for confirmation. This adds another layer to the case.
The Director of the Consumer Service confirmed that airports will not be exempt from the proposed law regarding price caps on bottled water. Despite a previous statement from a Service official, he emphasized that airports will be monitored for water pricing. The Service is hopeful for the passage of the law since the proposed changes will benefit consumers. Lawmakers have expressed concerns about the exclusion of airports from this obligation.
Anita Dimitriou is urging the President of the Republic to equalize the reward benefits for athletes with disabilities to those of able-bodied athletes. In her letter, she highlights that athletes with disabilities receive significantly lower rewards for their sports achievements. This initiative aims for fair treatment and the promotion of human rights. The House of Representatives expresses its readiness to support this new policy.
Two individuals were arrested by authorities in Limassol, suspected of being the traffickers of a boat found with 20 migrants, including five minor children. The boat, which was heading to Italy, was intercepted following received information. The arrested are facing serious charges related to facilitating irregular migration. A court decision regarding their case is expected soon.
The U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, stated that the electricity interconnection between Greece and Cyprus represents a significant opportunity for the island. During her meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides and U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense Celeste Wallander, she emphasized the need to end Cyprus's isolation. The impact of this interconnection on electricity supply is crucial. The U.S. views this as a way for Cyprus to gain more opportunities.
The Consumer Protection Service announced that there is no need for a price cap on bottled water at airports, sparking reactions from lawmakers. A representative explained that companies in airports have already installed water coolers for public use. Due to the confusion caused, the Energy Minister will be called to the next committee session. There were disagreements regarding consumer protection and the necessity of the measures.
The Synodical Court is investigating whether the videos involving monks in sexual acts are authentic, assigning an expert to verify the footage. The monks claim that the videos are manipulated and contain subtitles that indicate tampering. Additionally, they assert that their phones hold evidence proving their financial dealings with Metropolitan Isaiah. The case is ongoing, and the validity of the videos will be determined by the Synodical Court.
Apple lost a significant legal battle against the European Union and is required to pay 13 billion euros in back taxes. This decision stems from the EU's efforts to curb tax agreements that favor multinational companies like Apple. Ireland, which has a favorable tax regime, challenged the ruling, but the EU Court upheld it. Apple expressed its disappointment, deeming the ruling illogical.
Families of missing persons in Cyprus criticized the government's inaction regarding the search for the missing. They claim that the government's statements are hollow, given the limited support provided. A representative highlighted that despite the knowledge of a mass grave, no necessary excavations have taken place. Additionally, they stress that the contribution from the Republic of Cyprus to these efforts is minimal.
After 15 years of delays and a cost of €16 million, the new Air Traffic Control Center in Kokkino Trimithia is set to operate. Renovation works have been completed, including upgrades to building and technical systems. Despite challenges from the pandemic, all necessary systems have been delivered and are functioning. The new center is planned to meet the increasing air traffic needs for the next 10 years.
The hearing for forensic expert Panicos Stavrianos' request to overturn the findings regarding Thanasis Nikolaou's death is set for October 14. Thanasis' family argues that the forensic expert has no legal interest in the case, while the Legal Service has not submitted an objection. Stavrianos is seeking to annul the report which concluded that the death was caused by strangulation. All parties must submit written statements before the hearing date.
A 29-year-old suspect in a homophobic attack on a young man in Limassol claims he acted in self-defense. The young man had received derogatory comments about his sexual orientation, which led to the assault. The suspect was brought to court and remains in custody for three days. Further testimonies and examination of surveillance video are expected.
The Holy Synod is expected to meet on Thursday to consider the possible removal of three monks from the Monastery of Abakum. Key religious figures, such as Archbishop Georgios, will not testify as defense witnesses. There are reports of potential strategic maneuvers by the monks' lawyer that may complicate the process. Disturbing allegations related to the monastic brotherhood are already under examination.
Investigations are underway in Limassol after 20 Syrians were found on a boat heading to Italy. The boat was located seven nautical miles from the shore, and the occupants were taken to the police for statements. Reports suggest these individuals planned to leave Cyprus. Authorities are investigating to identify the smugglers.
A total of 118 Greek-Cypriot women are missing from the Turkish invasion of 1974, with 26 identified so far. Additionally, 248 women are considered deceased, and among the missing children, there are 38, the youngest being only six months old. Nearly half of the missing persons are still unaccounted for, with a 49% rate. Recently, seven remains have been found, with another seven expected to be identified soon.
Ed Sheeran's concert in Larnaca drew a huge crowd and significantly boosted the local economy. Over 45,000 attendees enjoyed the two shows, promising future events and increased tourism. Local businesses and hotels benefited greatly, prompting a call for more events like this. Larnaca gained valuable international exposure thanks to the concert.
The new school year has started smoothly for over 64,000 primary education students, although there are gaps in teachers that need to be filled promptly. The Minister of Education visited remote schools, emphasizing the need to support educational institutions in the area. The Ministry is working on modernizing public schools to enhance children's education. Local residents highlight the need for opportunities to encourage young families to stay in the region.
Simon Mistriel Aykout is presented as the mastermind behind the construction company Duminka, which is alleged to have engaged in illegal developments on occupied Greek-Cypriot land. Aykout faces serious charges, with a total of 242 counts including money laundering amounting to €43.5 million. The prosecution has provided testimonies linking him directly to these illegal activities, emphasizing the risk of him fleeing justice. If convicted, he could face up to 14 years in prison.
The new treatment Produodopa for Parkinson's disease has shown remarkable results in patients with advanced symptoms. Although improvements are encouraging, the treatment is only administered to specific groups of patients and may cause serious side effects. Many patients report reduced dependency on medications and an improved quality of life. However, there are limitations on the distribution of the treatment, requiring specific criteria to be met.
The session of the Synodical Court for the Holy Monastery of Abbacum continues today, following a lengthy process yesterday. The exact start time has not been announced, but Monday's session lasted until late evening without a break. Defendants and witnesses, including the Metropolitan of Tamasos, have been called to testify. No new postponement is planned, and the process is expected to conclude soon.
The new school year started smoothly for over 64,000 students, although there are shortages of teachers. The Minister of Education visited remote schools and announced efforts to modernize public education. The leadership acknowledges the need for opportunities and support for children, especially in isolated areas. The path to improving education is long, but efforts continue.
Simon Mistriel Aykout is accused of being the mastermind behind the construction company Duminka, which allegedly has illegal developments on occupied land in Cyprus. The prosecution presented testimonies, including that of Aykout's driver and other businessmen, identifying him as the 'big boss' of the company. The charges include a total of 242 offenses, with the amount linked to the illegal activities totaling €43.5 million. If convicted, he faces up to 14 years in prison.
The Cypriot government is facing concerns regarding the Cyprus-Crete electrical interconnection. Officials are reviewing agreements and regulations, but uncertainties are causing worry. The President of the Republic will meet with stakeholders, focusing on inquiries and claims rather than agreements. Key concerns include the final cost, the project's completion timeline, and the financial burden on consumers if the project is interrupted.
The AKEL party is reconnecting with the Cyprus issue by starting an information initiative and organizing a major political conference on October 4 and 5. Politicians from both communities will participate and share their views on the Cyprus problem. The goal is to hear different positions and ideas, emphasizing the importance of finding a solution. The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, will give a greeting at the opening of the conference.