The government is taking measures for demographic recovery by increasing the childbirth allowance and extending parental leave. The childbirth allowance will gradually increase up to 2500 euros for most families. Additionally, the number of beneficiaries of parental leave will rise from 80,000 to 148,000. These changes aim to support families and balance family and professional life.
Israel attacked the port of Latakia, hitting at least six ships of the Syrian navy. Reports indicate significant damage to the port's infrastructure. The Israeli Defense Minister requested the establishment of a weapons-free zone in southern Syria. However, he did not specify where this zone would be located.
The car importer is recalling passenger airbags for Mazda Demio vehicles imported to Cyprus as used cars. This recall affects vehicles that do not have European type approval, and owners should contact the distributor, Geo Pavlides Automotive, for airbag replacement. It's important for owners to confirm the status of their vehicles. More information regarding other recalls is expected soon.
President Nikos Christodoulides has refused to sign the legislation for the 19th amendment to the Constitution due to insufficient votes. This decision was made because of procedural issues that may affect the validity of the amendment. The President emphasizes the need to ensure a smooth integration of the new provisions with existing constitutional articles. This move is critical for maintaining legality and the functioning of the rule of law.
President Nicos Christodoulides announced a decision to turn a new page in relations between Cyprus and the UK following his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation on issues such as defense, investment, and energy, along with Cyprus's strong ties with neighboring countries. He also acknowledged the need for renewed talks regarding the Cyprus issue. The President expressed hope that this new approach will benefit the citizens of both countries.
A 71-year-old Greek national was arrested in Cyprus and is accused of sending 19 kilograms of cocaine. Authorities had been searching for him since June 2022, as he was linked to two drug cases through DNA evidence. The suspect claimed he came to Cyprus to register a business dealing with cigars, unaware of its involvement in drug trafficking. His arrest was the result of cooperation between German and Cypriot authorities.
Odysseas Michailidis, former Auditor General, called on citizens to unite in a fight against corruption during his speech at an event organized by the Ecology Movement. He described the critical situation in Cyprus and emphasized that economic upgrades do not resolve the issues facing the middle class. His speech is seen as a precursor to his political career. He concluded with a famous quote from Kazantzakis.
The Parliament is set to vote on a bill that regulates the immobilization of vehicles with faulty Takata airbags. Owners will be given 6 months to fix their vehicles before they are immobilized. There is a serious risk to drivers if they do not replace these faulty components. The Ministry is looking into alternative transportation methods for affected drivers.
Giannis Giannaki, the former Commissioner of Volunteerism, is looking for a lawyer following the resignation of Giannis Polychronis. The judge stated he must appear with a new lawyer at the next hearing to avoid delays. Giannaki faces eight charges, including forgery and circulation of forged documents. If convicted, he could face a three-year prison sentence.
The President of Cyprus, Nicos Christodoulides, met with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who made the first visit of a UK Prime Minister to Cyprus in 53 years. They discussed cooperation in the fields of security, defense, and economy, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations. The humanitarian role of Cyprus in the region was emphasized, along with the latest developments concerning the Cyprus issue which require attention and cooperation. The significant role of the UK in the UN Security Council was acknowledged.
A 66-year-old president of a Non-Governmental Organization has been placed in custody for eight days while an investigation into the alleged embezzlement of funds through false representations is ongoing. The police stated that there are serious suspicions of document falsification submitted to the Ministry of Health, concerning 51 invoices totaling €122,687 sent between June 2021 and November 2023. The judge agreed on the need for custody, mentioning that there are no ulterior motives behind the investigation.
A marble statue of Hermes Ludovisi was discovered in good condition near the Herodion during gas pipeline installation works. The statue was found in a one-meter trench in an area known for luxurious Athenian villas from imperial times. The personnel of the Athens City Antiquities Service ensured the documentation of the find and its transportation for preservation. This discovery highlights the cultural heritage of the region.
The president of a Non-Profit Organization was arrested for financial crimes. There are allegations involving conspiracy, forgery, and false representations linked to her. Authorities are investigating documents and accounts, while the accused is being held for further questioning. She is expected to appear in court today.
A 40-year-old Egyptian man is hospitalized in serious condition at Nicosia General Hospital after being found injured in the street in Limassol. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his injury, including the possibility of a workplace accident. Another injured individual, a 26-year-old, was discovered in an abandoned building and was transferred to the hospital with multiple injuries. The causes of the injuries remain unknown and are under investigation.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made a historic visit to Cyprus, landing at Larnaca airport for the first time instead of the British bases. He met with President Nicos Christodoulides to discuss bilateral issues, the Cyprus problem, and the situation in Syria. This marks the first visit by a British Prime Minister to Cyprus since 1971, highlighting a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries.
Almost 30% of Cypriots continue to work after retirement, primarily due to financial necessity. This percentage is much higher than the European average of 10.3%. Interestingly, Cyprus ranks high within the EU, even though only 19.1% of retirees do so because they enjoy working. In contrast, countries like Denmark and the Netherlands see more people working for enjoyment.
Seasonal infections are steadily increasing in Cyprus, with scientists warning of continued viral activity. Currently, flu levels are low, but increases are expected by the end of December. Citizens are advised to be cautious to prevent complications like pneumonia. Vaccination is recommended as a protective measure against the flu.
Onoufrios Koulas publicly expresses his objections to the Government, raising tensions in the relationship between the Parliament and the Government. He questions the stance of DISY towards the Government, intensifying internal party conflicts. His statements put pressure on DISY's leadership, which appears to be in a difficult position. There is particular concern about the potential interference of the Government in the internal matters of the party.
Kier Starmer's visit to Cyprus is historic as it marks the first visit by a British Prime Minister to the island in decades. The meeting with the President of the Republic is expected to address issues related to the Cyprus problem and bilateral relations. This visit comes at a time when Cyprus-UK relations are strengthening. Starmer's agenda includes important topics such as defense and the economy.
In Cyprus, citizens from 66 countries reside, and the coexistence among various ethnicities is generally harmonious. According to statistics, 86,026 citizens are from the European Union, while 142,514 come from non-EU countries. Many of these foreigners often work in the agricultural sector, and statistics show significant distribution across the districts. Citizens living in Cyprus come from 26 EU countries and 40 non-EU countries.
The clubs must pay €4.1 million in tax debts by the end of December to avoid legal consequences. Despite the potential increase of 1.5% in the betting tax, the teams still face significant debts. The amounts they need to pay vary, with some clubs facing high demands. Non-compliance could lead to criminal prosecution from the Attorney General's office.
Syrian refugees in Cyprus are beginning to withdraw their asylum applications due to recent developments in Syria. They express a desire to return home, believing that the war is nearing its end. The government is preparing measures for their safe and organized return. The processing of these withdrawals is underway, with authorities facilitating the requests.
A mysterious illness primarily affecting children has raised global concerns, with 406 cases and 79 deaths reported in Congo. The World Health Organization has dispatched experts to investigate the cause of the illness. Symptoms include fever and cough, with most fatalities occurring among malnourished individuals. European countries like Italy have increased border checks despite no cases reported outside Congo.