Nikos Christodoulides met with Joe Biden at the White House to discuss various foreign policy issues. Biden expressed gratitude for Cyprus's humanitarian assistance to Gaza. He also emphasized support for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation for Cyprus. The meeting follows the recent US-Cyprus Strategic Dialogue.
President Christodoulides stated that the relations between Cyprus and the USA have reached a strategic and historic high level. After his meeting with President Biden, he emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation in key areas. He also expressed hope for US support in restarting negotiations regarding the Cyprus issue. Finally, he highlighted that Cyprus remains a reliable partner in a geopolitically critical region.
Averof Neofytou welcomes the meeting between the President of Cyprus and the President of the USA, emphasizing the need for more active American involvement in the Cyprus issue. He proposes a bilateral military alliance with the US and avoiding double taxation to strengthen bilateral relations. Additionally, he states that Cyprus should join NATO for its security. Cyprus has the potential to become an attractive investment destination in the region.
The meeting between President Biden and Nicos Christodoulides marked a positive step towards solving the Cyprus issue, with the American President expressing optimism for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. Biden praised Cyprus's initiative regarding humanitarian aid to Gaza. Both leaders emphasized the strategic partnership and the importance of dialogue in resolving regional crises. Cyprus is viewed as a reliable partner and stands with Ukraine against the Russian invasion.
During a meeting of the parliamentary committee on Institutions, officials raised concerns about the effectiveness of the money laundering prevention mechanism in Cyprus. The head of MOKAS noted that there have been no reported suspicious purchases over €10,000 in the last three years. Concerns were expressed about delays in reporting by sellers of such goods. Legislative measures are needed to address this issue.
The European Commission urges Turkey to reconsider the conclusions from recent years regarding its relations with the EU. European authorities highlight Turkey as an important strategic partner and candidate country while recognizing the need for stable relations in the Eastern Mediterranean. Despite differing views, collaborative efforts must continue, especially in areas concerning fundamental rights and justice. The accession negotiations remain stalled since 2018.
The Ministry of Energy announced the re-launch of the 'Photovoltaics for All' Grant Scheme for an additional 3,000 household applications in Cyprus. The scheme encourages non-vulnerable households to utilize solar energy, thereby reducing their bills and environmental footprint. Several modifications have been made to facilitate access for more households. Important changes include a reduction in the grant amount and an increase in the repayment amount for beneficiaries.
In a meeting at the Ministry of Justice, measures were taken to combat attacks against delivery workers, aiming to enhance their safety. Delivery workers will be registered in a special system to notify the police immediately in case of danger. Additionally, patrols will be increased in areas with high crime rates. So far this year, there have been 18 reported attacks, mostly in Limassol.
The Chief of Police met with the Mayor of Larnaca to discuss measures against delinquency in the Finikoudes area. It was decided to set up a permanent police booth to ensure public safety. Additionally, foot patrols will be implemented, and collaboration with other agencies will take place to address local issues. The discussions focused on improving the security and well-being of residents and visitors.
A woman is accused of engaging in black magic, and her case has reached a supreme court. She claims to believe in the 'Santa Muerte' death goddess and argues that she has the right to believe that she can influence others through magic. The Supreme Court rejected her request to annul a search warrant issued against her, citing the evidence presented by the lower court. Various items linked to her alleged magical practices were found in her possession.
A significant development has occurred in the case of the homicide of an infant in Cyprus, with the mother admitting guilt for manslaughter due to negligence. The 21-year-old woman from Thessaloniki faces the possibility of life imprisonment. The father, from Pakistan, only admitted to a lesser charge. The next court session is scheduled for November 29.
Tensions are rising in the municipality of Nicosia due to disagreements between the deputy mayors and the Mayor. Andreas Konstantinou points out that the deputy mayors lack assigned duties, making them ineffective. Mayor Charalambos Proutzos argues he wanted to have a comprehensive view before assigning tasks. There is a recognition that collaboration is essential for the municipality to function properly.
The Turkish opposition describes a complete failure of Turkish diplomacy following the Biden and Christodoulides meeting. Namik Tan claims that Cyprus is recognized as a significant U.S. ally, providing security advantages. Due to Turkey's political decisions, it is losing influence in the region, while the U.S. reevaluates its strategies in the Eastern Mediterranean. Christodoulides has a favorable image in the U.S., and Cyprus is no longer seen as a center for ongoing illegal activities.
Two suspects, aged 20 and 22, were arrested for attacking a 28-year-old delivery driver in Limassol. The suspects claimed it was a misunderstanding concerning the driver's road behavior and that they used a water gun as a joke. The situation escalated when the driver hit their car with his helmet, while the two men asserted that it was self-defense. Authorities are analyzing the case, and the investigation is ongoing.
In seven weeks, a decision will be made regarding the hearing on the legislation for publicizing contributions to the Social Support Fund. The Supreme Constitutional Court addressed procedural matters today related to the report about the fund managed by the President's wife. Parties involved requested additional time to submit their arguments. Once all arguments are filed, the Court will proceed with clarifications.
The Cabinet announced mid-term measures to support vulnerable households, including complete subsidization of electricity tariffs for specific user categories. Low-income pensioners and single-parent families will benefit from these measures. Additionally, extra funding has been approved for the 'Solar Panels for All' plan, and a zero VAT has been set for certain essential goods. These changes are expected to provide significant support to 22,200 households and larger families.
Today marks one year since the murder of Thanasis Kalogeropoulos, and the trial has yet to begin. The fourth defendant stated he has not yet found a lawyer and requested an extension of two weeks. Legal aid for him has been approved, and preparations for the proceedings are underway. The next hearing is scheduled for November 11.
The case of naturalizations involving former Transport Minister Mario Dimitriades is referred to the Nicosia Criminal Court. The defendants are required to post guarantees ranging from €60,000 to €100,000. The charges include corruption, bribery, and conspiracy related to the naturalization of investors from Asia. The trial is scheduled to begin on January 16.
The influencer industry is valued at $250 billion and is expected to reach $500 billion by 2027. On Forbes' list of top influencers for 2024, the 50 leading content creators showcased their ability to earn over $720 million in the last year. Figures like MrBeast and the D'Amelio sisters have expanded their activities beyond social media, creating their own brands. These creators leverage their fame to convert their social influence into business success.
The government announced two new housing schemes aimed at supporting young couples and home ownership. The first scheme provides financial assistance to individuals under 41 to enhance their purchasing power. The second scheme focuses on renovating vacant properties to be made available for rental. These initiatives are expected to revitalize the real estate market.
Following the incidents during the APOEL - Anorthosis football match, the Minister of Justice called for the expedited review of two bills against violence in stadiums. The bills aim to hold clubs accountable for their fans' actions and allow alcohol and drug testing. Approval and discussion in Parliament are expected soon as part of the response to violence in sports. The government is focusing on measures to ensure safety at sporting events.
The completion of the Liopetri River revitalization project is significantly delayed, with new extensions extending until January 2025. The contractor is facing financial disputes with the state, and local authorities cannot provide an exact timeline for completion. Despite assurances, it seems that the project will not be delivered by November 15, and the delays are beginning to worry local residents.
The change of the general director at the Ministry of Education is causing delays in discussing and advancing important educational issues. The new director will need time to familiarize themselves with pending matters, such as the establishment of the working framework for substitutes and necessary improvements in the hiring system. These delays may impact educational policy and agreements with educational organizations. Additionally, the inclusion of permanent positions in the budget remains an open issue.
The Cypriot Ministry of Health is working to curb the rising costs of new and innovative drugs to ensure the sustainability of the General Health System. A central proposal is the introduction of joint tenders by EU member states, which is set to be presented by the Minister of Health at the EU Health Ministers' Council. This proposal seems to be gaining support from several countries, including Malta and Greece. Statistics show that Cyprus has experienced a significant increase in spending on specialized treatments in recent years.
The hasty expropriation of private land for infrastructure projects has led to significant state debts, amounting to 173 million euros. Despite a reduction in the owed amount since 2012, many property owners remain unresponsive to the proposed compensations. The compensation process is delayed, with nearly 50% of owners rejecting the offers. Overall, these liabilities continue to pose a challenge for the government.
Nikos Christodoulides will meet with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House, focusing on the Cyprus issue and bilateral relations. The U.S. reaffirms its support for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality for all Cypriots. This meeting comes at a critical time, marking the 50th anniversary of the island's division. Among the topics to be discussed are energy security and the situation in the Middle East.