U.S. officials express concerns about a potential military operation by Turkey in northern Syria, targeting Kurdish areas. Significant Turkish forces have gathered at the border near Kobani. Letters have been sent to the elected President Trump, warning of catastrophic consequences if Turkey initiates a new invasion. The Syrian Democratic Forces find themselves in a vulnerable position due to this situation.
A large fire erupted at a factory in the industrial area of Yeri, likely caused by a lightning strike. Experts are investigating the nature of the fire, with conclusions expected tomorrow. The factory suffered extensive damage, but there were no casualties as employees had left earlier. The fire resulted in significant damage to vehicles and equipment inside the factory.
The President inaugurated a new wing of a closed prison, accommodating 240 inmates and reducing overcrowding by 30%. This wing includes modern amenities and meets the standards set by the Committee against Torture. There were also announcements regarding the upgrade of the Prison Guard School and an increase in allowances for guards. Additionally, technological improvements are being made in the correctional facilities to enhance security and operations.
Ursula von der Leyen requested the resumption of talks regarding Cyprus within the framework of the United Nations during her meeting with President Erdogan. The issue of Turkey bypassing EU sanctions against Russia was also discussed. von der Leyen emphasized that EU-Turkey relations are stronger than ever, with trade reaching a record of 206 billion euros last year. The resumption of talks on Cyprus is seen as significant for the region.
Benjamin Netanyahu is traveling to Cairo for talks on a ceasefire in Gaza, presenting a proposal that involves significant concessions from Hamas. After 14 months of conflict, Hamas is seeking a 60-day pause in hostilities and a prisoner exchange. Residents of Gaza are eager for the war to end, and Hamas is facing public pressure to achieve this. In a possible agreement, Egypt has invited Mahmoud Abbas to Cairo.
Excavations at Dali revealed significant findings, including a figurine that likely depicts Venus or one of her worshippers. Other discoveries included various figurines and architectural remains suggesting the presence of a temple dedicated to the great Cypriot goddess. The excavations confirmed a long-held hypothesis regarding the temple's location after 130 years of research. The work was conducted by the Berlin-Idalion Project in collaboration with the University of Cyprus.
Hidden weapons and explosives were discovered in the Pano Polemidia area, raising concerns among the authorities. Police responded to a report from a government agency and initiated extensive searches. They are continuing investigations with the help of specialized dogs to find additional items. It is believed that the findings were intended for serious criminal activities.
Following airstrikes targeting chemical weapons laboratories in Syria, experts express concerns about the potential for leaks and the transfer of expertise to jihadists or Iran. OPCW Director Fernando Arias warns about contamination risks and the loss of dangerous chemicals. The situation is further complicated by Assad's departure, as these specialists may find new positions in hostile states or be recruited by extremist groups. There is also worry about the possibility of hidden stockpiles of chemical weapons remaining in Syria.
The Limassol Police has been mobilized after a large quantity of weapons and drugs was discovered in the Polemidia area. The investigation includes pistols, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices. Authorities acted on information to locate these items, and investigations continue to determine their origin. The aim is to identify any criminal activities linked to them.
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides met with UN Special Representative Colin Stewart to discuss the resumption of negotiations. The President expressed the government's readiness for a joint meeting with Mr. Tatar focused on the opening of new crossing points. This meeting is scheduled for January and includes the preparation for a multilateral conference involving other parties. The process aims to facilitate negotiations and achieve a majority of resolutions for Cyprus.
The Ministry of Transport is working to ensure the safety of Takata airbags by organizing upcoming recalls. By the end of the week, the Department of Road Transport is expected to have more information regarding recalls and supply processes. Meetings with distributors and importers will ensure prompt and effective communication. The goal is to minimize the inconvenience caused to citizens during the recall process.
The executor and two accomplices of Dimitris Andronikos were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Permanent Criminal Court of Nicosia for premeditated murder. The victim was killed on April 23, 2024. The 42-year-old motorcycle driver involved in the crime was also sentenced to life imprisonment. The motive appears to be related to underground interests.
Giannis Giannakis requested the recusal of Judge Nikola Grigoriou from his forgery case, citing bias. He claims that the judge has been influenced by media coverage and statements from officials. The prosecution disagrees, stating that they merely want the case to be heard. The decision regarding the recusal request will be announced on 1/8/24.
American advisors are urging the Cypriot government to carefully consider the investment in the electricity interconnection through the Great Sea Interconnector. They recommend conducting additional technical and economic evaluations before any commitment to purchasing shares. Furthermore, they emphasize the need to renegotiate the terms of the concession agreement with the ADMIE. Finally, they warn that Cyprus should ensure its participation on equal terms in the resulting consortium.
The President of the Republic received the annual report from the Audit Office for 2023. The Auditor General noted that the report includes the audit of public accounts and finances for the year. The President emphasized the importance of strengthening the rule of law and accountability, along with the need for reform of the Audit Office. He also discussed actions against corruption and the financial independence of the Office.
The Ministry of Health is informing the public about monkeypox (Mpox) cases in Cyprus and Europe. Key symptoms include rashes and fever, and transmission can occur from animals to humans and from human to human. Protective measures include avoiding physical contact with infected individuals and hand hygiene. The current risk assessment for the general population is low at this time.
The acceptance of the marina management proposal by the Cyprus Maritime Institute has pleased some stakeholders in Larnaca. However, there is strong disagreement regarding the port decision, as many are advocating for an alternative development proposal from the Port Authority. The mayor of Larnaca expressed concerns and warned of possible protests in January. The transport minister suggests patience and study before making any hasty decisions.
Almost 20,000 foreigners have received permits to purchase real estate in the occupied areas, with over 5,000 making purchases. The majority of applications have come from Russian and Turkish nationals. Since 2000, the number of applications has gradually increased, totaling 54,606 over the past 24 years. Recent geopolitical situations and the pandemic have contributed to this increase.
The Health Insurance Organization (OAY) recovered a total of €600,000 from providers under the GESY system, including hospitals and suppliers of consumables. Additionally, fines totaling €91,000 were imposed for violations found in the provision of services. OAY's investigations revealed that suppliers provided unapproved consumables and hospitals submitted reimbursement claims without proper documentation. This action by OAY promotes transparency and enforcement of rules in healthcare.
Seasonal infections are hitting children hard, with the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being particularly active. The number of children visiting the Emergency Department has doubled. Pediatricians advise parents to keep sick children at home to prevent virus transmission. Despite the rise in cases, most children did not require hospitalization.
The situation regarding Takata airbags remains critical, with responsibility for recalls shifting to the Minister of Transport. Delays in replacing faulty airbags pose a serious risk to drivers. Discussions are starting today to explore possible solutions while car distributors express concerns about their liability. The deactivation of airbags is being considered until replacements become available.
The Cypriot non-paper presented by the Foreign Minister calls on the EU to adopt an active approach in the Syrian crisis. The document highlights the need for the EU to remain vigilant regarding developments in the country and to ensure the rights of women and minorities. It also stresses the importance of cooperation with Arab countries and preventing a new increase in migration. Cyprus is advocating for the appointment of a special envoy to Syria to monitor developments.
The software of the General Health System faced significant issues, failing every week for two months, causing distress for patients and service providers. The situation seems to be improving, with management and the contracted company working on resolving the problems. However, technical difficulties persist as the company adapts to new processes. The Health Insurance Organization is closely monitoring the situation and providing recommendations to improve service quality.
A public consultation has begun for the expansion study of Larnaca and Paphos airports, with a deadline until January 15, 2025. The total estimated cost of the expansions is €170 million, with Larnaca airport requiring around €95 million and Paphos €75 million. The works are expected to start in 2025 and last approximately 18 months, responding to the increase in passenger traffic in recent years.
The DISY and AKEL parties are attacking the government over the economic crisis, as citizens are facing difficulties due to rising prices and high interest rates. DISY's leader, Annita Demetriou, accused the government of indecision and lack of guidance, while AKEL's General Secretary, Stefanos Stefanou, highlighted the government's inability to implement meaningful reforms. There are also contradictions from other parties that supported the government, indicating that current policies are similar to the previous ones. The situation remains tense, with political responsibilities weighing heavily on the government.