Football clubs are again trying to push for a new debt repayment plan, as most are not complying with the current scheme. Many clubs have incurred new debts and are requesting either a new arrangement or a revision of the existing plan. The Minister of Finance warned that no new plans will be made and that the law will be enforced for previous debts. Clubs that do not comply will face legal consequences.
The war in Syria is escalating, with nearly 370,000 refugees, mostly women and children, fleeing their homes towards Turkey and other regions. Among them is reportedly Assad's family, raising concerns about the political situation in Syria. Syrian rebels are capturing cities, and the Syrian army appears to be collapsing. Foreign ministers from Russia, Iran, and Turkey are meeting in Doha to discuss the situation.
The Consumer Protection Service has sent a list of 480 products to be included in e-kalathi, an application for price comparison. Supermarkets and suppliers will submit their feedback on the list. The pilot implementation of e-kalathi is set to start on December 20, with a presentation of its functionality to follow. The goal is to complete the system by the end of February and make it available to consumers with around 4,000 products.
The government decision for the operation of e-kalathi is set to begin as a trial from December 20. Participating supermarkets will offer 480 products, and prices will be compared among them. There are legal questions about running it without a decree, but legal issues are not expected. The trial period will last about two months before the official launch of the system in February 2025.
A lawyer claims that a liquidator has defrauded property buyers in Limassol, putting dozens of families at risk of losing their assets. The complaint has been filed with the police, and the lawyer presented additional evidence suggesting forgery and embezzlement of funds. These cases have been pending for three years without resolution. The lawyer is urging an urgent investigation and warns of the gravity of the situation.
President Christodoulides announced the upgrade of Cyprus' economy to A-grade by Fitch Ratings. This upgrade recognizes the country's positive trajectory and serves as a vote of confidence in policies aimed at creating a competitive economy. Viktor Papadopoulos highlighted this significant achievement after 13 years. The strong fiscal performance is accompanied by policies that support vulnerable groups.
Nicosia has been preparing to seek the Presidency of the OSCE, discussing the matter with the US last June. It has garnered support from countries like the US and the UK. The Cypriot candidacy was presented as a solution to the organization's operational problems, especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In the recent ministerial meeting, senior officials of the OSCE Secretariat were elected.
A social dinner triggered a renewed dispute within the DISY party, following comments from Averof Neofytou and responses from the Government Spokesman. DISY president Annita Demetriou emphasized that politicians should focus on issues concerning citizens rather than internal conflicts. These statements highlight existing disagreements within DISY and the need for a reconnection with the Government. This situation could impact the ongoing political collaboration between the two sides.
Starting January 2025, the "Pay As You Throw" system will be implemented in the Municipality of Aradippou and gradually across Cyprus by 2026. The system requires the use of prepaid bags for residual waste collection, with specific prices for different sizes. Local authorities will conduct checks to ensure proper use of the bags, imposing fines for violations. Prepaid bags will be available at selected sales points.
OPAP is bringing Eurojackpot, the largest European lottery, to Cyprus, with prizes reaching up to €120,000,000. Draws will take place twice a week, involving 19 countries. The implementation of the game requires approval from the Cypriot Cabinet. OPAP (Cyprus) Ltd currently offers eight lottery games in Cyprus.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (ΥΚΑΝ) has reported a significant increase in drug seizures, comparable to those in Latin America. In just 11 months, 785 kilograms were seized, compared to 600 kilograms last year. Most of the seizures involve cannabis, followed by cocaine, with new types of drugs appearing in the form of jelly candies. The ΥΚΑΝ continues its efforts to combat these illegal activities through cooperation and information gathering from abroad.
The Government has decided to assign the management of Larnaca's port and marina to private entities for five years, seemingly without informing local stakeholders. The Cyprus Port Authority submitted an €86 million proposal for the port's development, raising concerns in the local community. There are differing views on the sustainability of the government’s decision, while the Port Authority states it possesses the expertise and personnel for the project. The city is expected to react strongly if the Government proceeds with the private management.
The U.S. defense relations with Cyprus are strengthening as Washington considers Nicosia a key partner in the Eastern Mediterranean. Following the lifting of the weapons embargo, the National Guard has acquired modern arms from the United States. This collaboration suggests a long-term strategy for regional security. The procurement includes rifles, night vision scopes, and other specialized capabilities.