During the informal summit of the 27 EU leaders, the focus was on discussing ways to finance the European defense industry. The leaders highlighted the need to enhance Europe's defense autonomy in light of geopolitical developments. Alternative funding options and cooperation with the United States were also discussed. These talks will aid in drafting a 'white paper' that will propose policies for strengthening European defense.
The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus requested Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos to withdraw publications against Archbishop Georgios. The meeting also honored the late Archbishop Anastasios and agreed to hold an annual fundraiser for the St. Catherine Monastery. Additionally, it was decided that weddings would be allowed until December 12 during the Christmas fasting period. Finally, a conference is planned to mark the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council.
The Cyprus Police Association suggests measures to combat fan violence, including the use of new equipment that launches small rubber balls. This proposal comes after serious incidents of violence observed during the AEK-AEL match. The police are also proposing legislative changes to strengthen their forces against dangerous hooligans. The SPA emphasizes that mere condemnation of the incidents is not enough to change the situation.
Parasports athlete Marios Koutsoullis alleges bullying and obstacles from the Cyprus National Paralympic Committee (KEPE) in his sports journey. He mentioned challenges like lacking a coach and being urged to participate in competitions without regard for his health. The KEPE countered that the bullying claims are false and stated they offered him support. This situation raises serious questions about the support provided to athletes with disabilities in programs like the Paralympic Games.
Archbishop George strongly criticized Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos during a session of the Holy Synod regarding behaviors that caused reactions among the faithful. While he did not propose any immediate changes to the administration of Paphos, he expressed the need for a change in mentality within the Church. Metropolitan Tychikos countered that he does not require guidance and expressed a desire to resolve issues through love. The conflicts between them appear to have deeper roots and differing views on church policy.
Early in the morning, two women were seriously injured when they fell from a moving vehicle in Limassol. The incident occurred when the driver, with the roof down, was turning, and the women were seated in an unsafe manner without proper seat use. The driver fled the scene but was later apprehended by the police. The injured women are now out of danger and are hospitalized.
The Ministry of Transport is enhancing its efforts to inform vehicle owners that must immobilize their cars due to brake and airbag issues. Lists have been published containing 134 Mercedes vehicles and 138 vehicles (mostly Citroen) that need to be taken out of service immediately. Owners are urged to contact their distributor for guidance. These measures are part of a broader initiative to ensure safety regarding the driving of recalled vehicles.
A new workplace accident occurred today at noon at a construction site. A man fell into a trench and was sadly recovered dead. Local police promptly arrived at the scene following the incident. More details are expected to follow soon.
In Makarios Avenue, the demolition of two buildings is planned, allowing for the construction of skyscrapers. ETEK has compiled a list of 80 buildings that must be saved, with a second list to follow. Declaring buildings as preserved takes about six months, during which demolitions can occur. The Interior Minister is considering urban incentives to prevent the demolition of these buildings.
Since 2010, there have been no regulations regarding the recall of vehicles imported from third countries without European type approval, leading to about 200,000 cars potentially being subject to recall. The Minister of Transport announced new regulations to streamline the recall process and inform owners. Some vehicles are being immobilized due to safety concerns, specifically those with Takata airbag issues. Additionally, a proposal for free bus transport for owners choosing to immobilize their vehicles has been made.
The process for issuing building permits has been expedited, now taking only 40 working days for low-risk developments. Permits for single-family and duplex homes are issued within 20 days. This new regulation reduces bureaucracy and eases the planning process for citizens. Additionally, the procedure will be extended to medium-risk developments in March.
After the AEK - AEL match, fans attacked the police with stones, molotov cocktails, and naval flares. One police officer was slightly injured from a flare, and a 36-year-old fan has been arrested. The police are investigating the incidents and looking for those responsible. The situation was critical, with a risk of serious injuries or even fatalities.
Turkey monitored the research for an underwater cable between Crete and Cyprus with the presence of a warship. Significant Italian vessels conducted research in the area, while Greek officials stated that the investigations were being carried out in areas not subject to Turkish claims. A Turkish corvette sent a message demanding that the research stop, prompting an immediate response from Greek forces. Greek and Cypriot authorities express concerns about the geopolitical risks in the area.
A new legislative framework comprising 60 bills and proposals is being examined by the Internal Affairs Committee of the House, which could potentially change the electoral landscape in Cyprus. These changes are planned to be implemented in the parliamentary elections of May 2026. The committee will also discuss issues such as voting at the age of 17 and automatic registration in electoral rolls. Debates are expected to begin next Thursday.
The Minister of Transport is expected to announce today the process for vehicle recalls related to safety. The proposed decrees will cover all recalls, not just those concerning airbags. There has been a delay in informing owners, with SMS notifications likely to be sent for the latest recalls. The legal framework is complex and requires collaboration with the Legal Service for proper management of the process.
The case of a threat message against President Christodoulides is linked to investigations conducted in the Central Prisons regarding the detainee Simon Mistriel Aykout. The President confirmed the incident and expressed his trust in the authorities. Despite actions taken by the authorities, many details remain unclear, raising concerns about security issues. The situation surrounding this particular detainee involves serious charges of property misappropriation.
The Cypriot banking system has shifted from cooperation with Russia to alignment with the United States. Ties with Russian capital have sharply declined since 2013, resulting in a near disappearance of remittances from high-risk countries. In contrast, international businesses, particularly in technology, health, and shipping, are helping to restore economic balance. Cyprus is gradually being recognized as a pillar of stability in the region.
Over 1,500 Greek companies are operating in Cyprus, investing in various sectors of the economy. Cyprus is seen as an attractive destination for Greek businesses, offering political and economic stability. These companies also aim to extend into the Middle Eastern market. Significant investments are noted in areas such as food, shipping, and financial services.
This year, the cruise sector in Cyprus is expected to see positive growth, with an increase of over 30% in cruise ship arrivals. The port of Limassol is set to welcome 139 cruise ships, 26 of which will operate as home port. The Deputy Minister of Shipping emphasized the importance of attracting new cruise lines and sustainable development. The strategy includes participation in exhibitions to promote Cyprus as a cruise destination.
The minimum quota for goat and sheep milk in the production of halloumi remains at 15% for February, according to a decree expected from the Minister of Commerce. Despite efforts to increase this quota, available milk quantities are very low. Extreme weather conditions and prolonged drought have impacted production and milk ratios. The situation will be reassessed after the relevant committee meeting on February 20.