The tripartite meeting regarding Cyprus in New York is scheduled for October 15th. President Christodoulides will first visit London and then head to New York for talks with Ersin Tatar and the UN Secretary-General. Tatar stated that he aims to express his views and emphasized that his participation does not indicate a withdrawal from the dialogue process.
On October 15, an informal dinner will take place in New York featuring President Nicos Christodoulides, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The dinner will have no official agenda, allowing the leaders to exchange views in a friendly atmosphere. The Greek Cypriot side has accepted the date, and further details are expected from the UN Secretary-General. This meeting comes at a crucial time for relations between the two communities.
Archbishop George considers the accusations from the deposed monks of the Monastery of Abba Akakios to be unfounded. He stated that the Church provided them with ample opportunities to prove their innocence, but the evidence was lacking. He also dismissed claims about documents he supposedly signed and emphasized that there is no possibility of transferring the issues to another church. Ultimately, the monks will retain their monastic status but will not be able to perform sacraments.
The former monks of the Abbacum Monastery are turning to the courts following their dismissal, accusing the Holy Synod of covering up scandals involving other clergy. They highlighted unethical and financial issues that were overlooked and called for intervention from the Attorney General. The monks emphasize the need for the church to be cleansed and assert that they will not allow mistakes to be hidden through money and influence. They are calling for a fair process and action against those responsible.
The Synodal Court decided to defrock two archimandrites and to defrock a monk. The decision came after judicial sessions and witness examinations. The lawyer for the monks argued that the defendants were not given the opportunity to fully defend themselves. He claimed that the Court violated the Sacred Canons.
The Synodal Court has decided to defrock Archimandrites Nectarios and Porphyrios, as well as to laicize monk Abbacum. These decisions have serious implications for those involved and mark a significant development in the administration of the Monastery of Abbacum. More details are expected soon.
Another state project, e-justice, has failed to be completed and has been added to the list of unsuccessful government projects. The situation with public works is critical, as many other projects are also facing significant issues. Despite extensions given to resolve the problems, efforts were unsuccessful, leading to the termination of the contract. The government is now considering two options for the next steps regarding the justice system.
A Cypriot student living in Lebanon describes the fear and anxiety he is experiencing due to ongoing bombings. He states that the situation is much more dangerous than in 2006 and that they do not feel safe. His family is trying to reach out to the Cypriot embassy for help, but they have not received support yet. George expresses his wish to return to Cyprus with his dog.
Jonas Karousis, aged 26, is a victim of the recent terrorist attack in Tel Aviv. He was the son of Professor Dimitris Karousis and was studying in Tel Aviv. The attack resulted in a total of seven deaths, with the Foreign Ministry expressing deep sorrow over the loss. Authorities emphasized the need for respect for human life and the fight against terrorism.
The second expert who examined the videos from the Abbakoum Monastery confirmed their authenticity, supporting the Synod Court's position. This opinion is believed to lead to a guilty verdict for the monks charged with ethical misconduct and ecclesiastical offenses. The decision for their removal is nearly certain and is expected to be issued soon. If an appeal is made, the Holy Synod will convene for further examination of the case.
Israeli ambassador Oren Anolik denied the rumors of his abduction, stating that he is fine. He mentioned that these rumors are false and that the situation prompted many to reach out to him to wish him a happy year. The Cypriot government had reported that his whereabouts were unknown, but this turned out to be inaccurate.
The Cabinet has decided to increase the subsidy for accommodation in nursing homes from 745 euros to 1,300 euros. This initiative also aims to increase the number of beneficiaries and to upgrade the services provided. A key requirement is that the total deposits of the beneficiaries do not exceed 10,000 euros. The Deputy Minister of Social Welfare stated that announcements regarding the participation of providers will follow soon.
Israeli and foreign citizens are arriving in Cyprus seeking safety due to the difficult situation in Tel Aviv. Several flights from Tel Aviv to Larnaca airport have been reported. Passengers express their need for peace and concern for military personnel and hostages. Many have spent the night at the airport, waiting to return home.
Military analyst Andis Loizou states that it is very unlikely for Cyprus to be affected by missile strikes in the Middle East amidst current tensions. Cyprus is not involved in Iranian pursuits, and the U.S. has close ties with Cyprus, making it unlikely that such an event would occur. However, any potential Turkish involvement in the region poses a risk as Turkey may exploit the situation. The chances of escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict are low due to Israel’s diplomatic support.
Today's religious proceedings involve the suspended monks Nektarios, Porfyrios, and Avvakoumos, who are called to defend themselves against financial and ethical violations. A decision from the Synodic Court is expected before the end of the week, with the likelihood of removal considered certain for the first two monks. Avvakoumos may face a different penalty, that of laicization. The charges include serious offenses, and this decision will impact their roles within the Church.
Hundreds of passengers spent the night at Larnaca airport waiting for flights to Israel due to the diversion of 11 flights after a missile attack from Iran. Some airlines arranged accommodation for about 500 passengers in local hotels. The airport's activity is notably increased, and security measures are strict. Several arrivals and departures are scheduled for the day.
The new Auditor General, Andreas Papaconstantinou, emphasized the importance of the institution's independence during his oath-taking ceremony. He thanked the President for the trust placed in him and highlighted the need for those audited to accept and utilize the findings. The President urged Papaconstantinou to be strict with everyone, starting from the Presidential Palace. The aim is to modernize and upgrade the state.
The monks of the Monastery of Abakum respond to allegations concerning the scandal associated with the monastery and the properties linked to them. Father Nectarios emphasizes that no genuine investigation has been conducted regarding the value of the properties and criticizes public outrage. Additionally, they state that the money found in the monastery was intended for a multipurpose center. Father Nectarios describes the challenges they face and the hardships experienced following their expulsion from the monastery.
Around 100 Cypriots are waiting for information to be repatriated from Lebanon due to safety concerns. The Cypriot Foreign Ministry is gathering data on those interested. The Greek government quickly responded to a request for a C-130 to be sent for the repatriation. Cypriots wishing to return are advised to contact their embassy in Beirut.
Access to financing for affordable housing is challenging for consumers, despite government initiatives. The Cyprus Land Development Corporation offers homes at lower prices, but banks have strict lending criteria. Consumers often struggle to cover the down payment and secure loans. New approaches are needed to facilitate access to financing.
The U.S. government warned Iran about the consequences of its attack on Israel. President Biden stated that America fully supports Israel, and discussions are ongoing regarding a response to this attack. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted the escalation of the situation and the need for consultation with Israel. The U.S. government made it clear that Iran's attack will not go unanswered.
By 2050, it is expected that 90% of global electricity production will come from renewable sources. Currently, 46% of global electricity is sourced from clean energy, with only 40% of countries primarily using clean energy sources. The top countries with the cleanest electricity grids derive over 95% of their energy from clean sources, mainly hydroelectric energy. Hydroelectric power accounted for 16% of global electricity production in 2022.
Israeli armed forces targeted Hezbollah installations in Beirut, warning civilians to evacuate from certain areas. The situation remains tense, with ongoing attacks from Israel. New strikes are expected in the region. The Israeli Air Force stated that it will continue its operations against Hezbollah.
Cyprus aims to boost its exports, with halloumi and pharmaceutical products being key items. According to statistics, exports decreased in 2024 compared to 2023. Exports of domestically produced goods reached 2.3 billion euros in 2023. There is potential for increasing exports of additional products.
Iran's Foreign Minister stated that their military action is complete unless Israel provokes further attacks. Iran exercised its right to self-defense by launching 180 missiles at Israeli military targets. Abbas Araghchi warned that if Israel continues to provoke, Iran's response will be stronger. Additionally, Tehran urged the UN Security Council to take actions to prevent threats to regional peace and security.