The Central Committee of SYRIZA approved the schedule for an extraordinary congress and presidential elections on November 24. The proposal by the Political Secretariat was overwhelmingly voted in favor. However, tensions arose with some members leaving in protest over alternative proposals. The situation remains tense as disagreements continue to grow.
Ukraine announced that it carried out drone attacks on Russian ammunition depots, hitting significant strategic targets. An emergency state has been declared in Tikhoretsk, Russia, where residents were evacuated due to the attack. Russian officials acknowledged the strikes and reported that a large amount of ammunition was being transported in the area. At the same time, there are reports of Russian forces targeting energy infrastructure in Ukraine.
The Larnaca police are investigating a burglary and robbery at a jewelry store where the thieves entered through a hole in the ceiling. The incident occurred early in the morning, and the thieves made off with jewelry worth approximately 15,000 euros. The hole was previously created during another attempted robbery. Investigations to apprehend the culprits are ongoing.
Ersin Tatar announced that he will explain to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres why he cannot accept a trilateral meeting. He emphasized that sovereign equality and equal international status are national policies supported by Turkey and stated that any new process must confirm these positions. Additionally, criticizing the RTK delegation in New York, he noted that their positions undermine the Turkish stance. He highlighted the need for cooperation between the two sides even without a political process.
Stella Kyriakidou will participate in the UN General Assembly in New York to discuss antimicrobial resistance, which poses a serious threat to global public health. She emphasizes the importance of international cooperation to address this issue and protect citizens. The commissioner will attend several events and meetings related to improving health security and food waste. The goal is to enhance collaboration between the EU and organizations like the UN to promote health and achieve sustainable goals.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, announced advanced talks to establish a joint venture with UAE's TAQA for the Cyprus-Crete electrical interconnection. The two countries are collaborating on energy investments, with Cyprus planning to contribute €100 million. This partnership is considered essential for the project's success, as TAQA's independent investment faces challenges due to EU regulations. Final decisions are expected soon.
The community of Androlikou opposes the creation of a new quarry zone in the area. Residents are concerned about the negative impacts that quarrying has already inflicted on their environment and quality of life. They are seeking alternative solutions and do not intend to accept further degradation of their community. They emphasize that intensive quarrying has resulted in serious and irreversible damage.
President Christodoulides will be in New York next week for the United Nations General Assembly to bring the Cyprus issue back to the forefront. He has important meetings scheduled, including one with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The agenda includes speeches and bilateral meetings with various leaders. These developments are awaited with great interest from Cyprus and the international community.
Over the past 30 years, the use of private vehicles in Nicosia has steadily increased, leading to traffic and environmental issues. The Sustainable Mobility Plan aims to promote alternative transport modes such as walking and cycling. Changes in parking policies and the road network are proposed to reduce dependence on cars. A public consultation on the environmental impact study will run until October 2024.
The Cyprus police are investigating a serious fraud case involving a Greek-Cypriot businessman who allegedly defrauded Israeli investors of €3 million. The investors claim that the businessman used false representations and forged documents to secure these funds, which were meant for an investment. The complaint was made through a lawyer and includes documents supporting their claims. The case involves various types of alleged crimes.
The suspension of Odysseas Michailidis from the position of General Auditor is causing significant political repercussions. EDEK will participate in the protest outside the Presidential Palace, emphasizing the need for the independence of the Audit Office and an end to impunity. This decision has created rifts in the relationships between EDEK and the government. Reactions are also noted from supporters of DIKO, despite the party’s official decision not to participate.
Odysseas Michailidis is seriously considering running for the presidency of the Republic in 2028, without any interest in founding a party or a political movement. Despite encouragement from his supporters, he prefers not to engage in politics until the right time arises. Furthermore, he is contemplating the possibility of appealing to the European Court of Human Rights due to his legal issues. His participation in various activities and public appearances is not ruled out until then.
The Cyprus Regulatory Authority for Energy made a positive decision, while discussions between the governments of Cyprus and Greece continue. Despite the good atmosphere, Greece rejected Cyprus's request to amend the cost-sharing agreement for the electrical interconnection. The Cypriot government is concerned that the final cost of the interconnection will be significantly higher than planned. The situation appears to be progressing with better prospects for resolving outstanding issues.