From November 4, 2024, a zero VAT will apply to children's milk, diapers, as well as certain fruits and vegetables until December 31, 2025. This measure has been implemented by the Cabinet as part of actions against rising prices. The selected essential goods will ease the daily life of citizens. Details about these products have already been announced by the Tax Department.
The police are conducting a major operation to apprehend individuals linked to numerous thefts and burglaries across various districts. So far, three people have been arrested, and over 20 stolen generators and solar panels have been found. The arrested individuals are believed to be involved in a network selling stolen goods. They will appear in the Larnaca District Court tomorrow.
EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders responded to MEP Fidias Panayiotou's question regarding the dismissal of former Auditor General Odysseas Michailidis. He stated that the Commission does not have the authority to intervene in individual judicial cases, as these are under the jurisdiction of national judicial authorities. The Commission also monitors rule of law developments in Cyprus. He noted that access to information affects the capabilities of the Audit Office in conducting effective checks.
The Parliament has increased the penalty points for losing a driving license from 12 to 16, effective February 1, 2025. This modification was deemed necessary due to new traffic control measures and their associated problems. MP Chrysanthos Savvidis argued that this change will alleviate pressure on the courts and help drivers retain their licenses. Independent MP Alexandra Attalides opposed the change, stating that a transitional period should be established to avoid confusion among citizens.
The three monks from the Monastery of St. Abbacum filed an appeal against the decision of the Synodical Court at the last moment. The appeal will be examined after November 10 due to the absence of court members. They will be given time to defend themselves and report other clergymen for offenses. If the court's decision is upheld, the monks have the option to move to another monastery.
President Nikos Christodoulides met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens, following his meeting with President Biden at the White House. Both leaders emphasized the importance of the strategic relationship between Cyprus, Greece, and the USA. They stated that the time has come for a fair solution to the Cyprus issue. Christodoulides noted that their cooperation strengthens efforts to resolve the crisis in Cyprus.
Averof Neofytou proposes that 17-year-olds should have the right to vote and should take civic education classes to become informed about political issues. The proposal is supported by various youth organizations, which highlight the need for additional rights for young people. The Interior Minister suggests waiting as there are government bills being processed that include voting at 17. Neofytou and his associates believe there is no reason to withdraw the proposal since it aligns with government plans.
The prosecution's statement focused on the defense's claims regarding the involvement of Odysseas Michailidis in the case of Yiannis Giannakis. The prosecutor emphasized that all evidence came from the Police and there was no contamination of the material. Additionally, the prosecutor argued that the defense's objection is unrelated and inadmissible at this stage of the trial. The case concerns the forgery of the academic titles of the former Commissioner of Volunteerism.
The District Court of Limassol sentenced an 18-year-old to ten months in prison for assault and robbery against a food delivery worker. The offenses took place in August during the victim's work hours. The police managed to locate the accused after a complaint from the victim. The court found him guilty and imposed the prison sentence.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the significance of the meeting between Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and U.S. President Joe Biden. This meeting was the first visit of a Cypriot leader to the White House in 28 years, strengthening U.S.-Cyprus relations. Mitsotakis pointed out that this development portrays Cyprus as a stable factor in a troubled region. He also highlighted the importance of active diplomacy that is coordinated between Athens and Nicosia.
The Deputy Minister of Migration, Nicolas Ioannidis, stated that foreigners come to Cyprus via the occupied territories and apply for asylum in the free areas. The government plans actions to curb this phenomenon, with increased returns of migrants to their home countries. Efforts are also underway to integrate legal migrants into Cypriot society. The Minister emphasized a shift in the EU's policy regarding the reception of migrants from frontline countries.
The Ministry of Interior is launching a housing scheme for individuals up to 41 years old, young couples, and families with children. Eligible participants can receive financial support ranging from €20,000 to €50,000 for acquiring housing. Applications will be accepted from November 15, 2024, to December 31, 2024. The scheme supports the construction or purchase of homes, requiring at least ten years of residency in the new property.
A court in Cyprus overturned a decision that awarded compensations against Turkey due to sovereign immunity. It was ruled that Turkey cannot be sued in Cypriot courts. Claims against usurpers of property can proceed, while the interested parties are referred to international courts. The decision emphasizes Turkey's sole responsibility for human rights violations in the occupied territories.
The Deputy Minister of Migration, Nikolaos Ioannidis, announced that migrants residing in the Dead Zone will be relocated within the next two to three weeks. There are indications that some countries will accept some of them. Additionally, he stated that the Republic of Cyprus will not take on Turkey's responsibilities. Work to remove fences in the area will start soon.
A 52-year-old Iranian is being held in Cyprus due to suspected involvement in terrorist activities targeting Israeli citizens. His request for release was denied by the Supreme Court, citing the situation in the Middle East. An expulsion order has been issued against him, and the process for his removal is set to proceed. Efforts are ongoing to issue a biometric passport for his expulsion, although flights are limited.
Costas Venizelos comments on the meeting between President Christodoulides and Joe Biden, highlighting the importance of Cyprus in the region. Nicosia is trying to leverage its strategic position and strengthen its relations with the US, moving away from dependence on Turkey. Cyprus's role is now recognized separately from Turkey, which may positively influence the resolution of the Cyprus issue. These developments are significant for enhancing Cyprus's standing in the region.
The Auditor General Andreas Papa Constantinou called for the enforcement of the law regarding tax debts of football clubs, which total €35.6 million. Despite existing repayment plans, some clubs have not met their obligations. Lawmakers voiced opposition to proposed taxes aimed at addressing these debts, deeming the legislation unacceptable. An upcoming meeting will discuss proposals for resolving the issue.
The Minister of Interior, Konstantinos Ioannou, announced the plan 'Renovate – Rent' aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing. The plan offers financial grants up to €35,000 for owners to renovate empty residential units. Applications will be accepted within set timeframes, with income criteria for tenants. Tenants will need to meet specific income criteria based on their household composition.
There is a heated conflict among dentists in Cyprus over the recognition of specialties. The Cyprus Dental Association opposes the proposal, arguing that dentists should be able to handle all dental issues. Many EU countries do not recognize specialties, and the Association is working to prevent the differentiation of Turkish Cypriot dentists. The Dental Council supports the recognition of these specialties.
The Larnaca Chamber of Commerce and the Larnaca Tourism Board are working on registering the Skali cup as a Product of Geographical Indication. The study will focus on the unique characteristics of the dish, followed by promotional campaigns. Simultaneously, the municipality of Athienou is seeking to secure recognition for its famous bread and loukoumi. These efforts are part of the upcoming 2nd CyFood B2B Forum scheduled for November 7.
The meeting between President Christodoulides and President Biden received extensive coverage in the Turkish press, recognizing it as significant. Newspapers mention the need for U.S. support in restarting negotiations on the Cyprus issue. Additionally, the meeting is linked to the Greek votes in the upcoming elections. Christodoulides expressed his concerns about Turkish occupation in Cyprus.
Rental prices for apartments in Cyprus have significantly increased, with high prices even in less affluent areas. In Nicosia, for instance, average rents for one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments range from €575 to €1,045. In Paphos, rental prices are lower, almost half of those in Limassol. These rents pertain to new or recently renovated apartments aimed at permanent residents of Cyprus.
Two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, were arrested in Paphos for clothing theft and are also charged with carrying a knife. They were deemed suspicious by store employees and were confined until the police arrived. Stolen items and a knife were found in their possession. The case will be referred to the legal service due to their age.
The Government announced two new plans to address the housing crisis and rising costs, titled ‘Sustain My Future’. These include support for young individuals and families through financial assistance and the development of new housing units. The aim is to increase the housing stock and improve access to affordable homes. The Minister of Interior emphasized the importance of these measures for supporting citizens with middle and low incomes.
A food delivery student reported an attack by seven individuals in Limassol. While he was delivering an order, they blocked his way and assaulted him, forcing him to flee and leaving his motorcycle behind. The police have launched an investigation to identify the perpetrators, who are aged between 18 and 20. The incident occurred around 9:20 PM.
The new leader of Hezbollah, Naeem Qassem, stated that the movement is prepared to continue fighting Israel despite suffering losses. He also mentioned that a ceasefire could be agreed upon under certain conditions. The situation remains tense with ongoing bombings and significant casualties in Lebanon. Hezbollah plans to continue the war until the Israeli attacks on Gaza are completed.
North Korea launched a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan. The South Korean Defense Minister suggests that North Korea may plan a significant action during the U.S. presidential election period. Meanwhile, the presidents of Ukraine and South Korea agreed to strengthen their strategic ties to deter North Korean involvement in the Ukraine war.
Today, regulations for the development of 'outdoor hotels', a new category of accommodations in Cyprus, are being voted on. The regulations include relaxations of criteria, such as increasing the deviation for minimum room size from 10% to 15%. The goal is to encourage investments in mountainous and disadvantaged areas. These measures aim to enhance and improve the 'outdoor hotels'.
The government announced a package of measures to counteract rising costs, which has somewhat satisfied vulnerable groups. However, there are calls for additional and more permanent actions from the coalition parties, such as DIKO and EDEK. AKEL expressed dissatisfaction over not including their proposals. The Minister of Finance stated that the government is working towards finding permanent solutions to societal challenges.
Turkish Cypriots are continuing to seek compensation through 46 lawsuits against the Custodian of Turkish Cypriot properties. The claims in these cases range from €500,000 to over €2 million. The government feels somewhat secure since the Custodian's authority has been ruled constitutional. However, there remains uncertainty regarding whether the legislation covers expropriations for which lawsuits have been filed.
The National Technical University of Athens expresses concerns about the establishment of a branch in Cyprus. The departments of Applied Mathematics and Physical Sciences and Metallurgical Engineering warn that tuition fees will exclude students with lower financial means. They also worry about the degradation of study quality and the reputation of the university. This process seems to negatively impact academic excellence and professional development.
The Republic of Cyprus and the United States have agreed on a roadmap to strengthen their defense cooperation. Discussions covered defense and security matters, as well as the potential lifting of the arms embargo. Investments and the possibility of abolishing visa requirements for Cypriots were also on the agenda. President Biden emphasized Cyprus's role as a stabilizing factor in the region.