Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on European products, particularly targeting cars. He accused the EU of exploiting the US and emphasized his determination to protect American interests. He stated that any retaliatory measures from the EU would be unsuccessful. He made a distinction between the EU and Canada regarding trade practices.
Princess Dana Firas of Jordan is visiting Nicosia to participate in events focused on cultural heritage preservation. During her stay, she tours museums and historical sites, and tomorrow she will be the main speaker at the inauguration of the Europa Nostra Heritage Hub. Dana Firas is an internationally recognized advocate for cultural heritage, having been honored by UNESCO. She has experience as the president of significant organizations dedicated to the conservation of cultural monuments.
The police are investigating the involvement of a gang of Georgian burglars in a recent chase that resulted in an officer being injured. Stolen items and burglary tools have been found, and the 53-year-old suspect has been arrested and brought before a court. Reports suggest that the gang consists of about seven individuals who have targeted luxury homes. The chase was highly dangerous, with the suspect trying to escape recklessly.
Renowned singer Manolis Lidakis passed away at the age of 65 due to heart issues. He had recently undergone a procedure and was recovering to return to his normal life. At the time of his death, he was found in a home where he had moved to rest. The news of his passing deeply saddened both his family and fans.
The lawyers of forensic expert Panikos Stavrianos are alleging that he endured 'torturous and violent behavior' during an extensive interrogation lasting over ten hours. The interrogation took place without breaks, raising concerns about the process. The case is related to the death of National Guardsman Thanasis Nikolaou and has been reported to various authorities. Stavrianos is requesting acknowledgment of a complaint against the criminal investigator.
The tax reform proposes an increase in the tax-free income threshold and a new income tax scale for individuals. The highest tax rate now applies to incomes over €80,000. The proposals also include tax deductions for households with incomes up to €80,000. The aim is to reduce the tax burden and create a fairer tax framework.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus announced an increase in the tax-free income to €20,500 for individuals. The tax reform aims to support the middle class and reduce social inequalities. Additionally, there will be tax deductions for households. The criteria for these deductions will vary based on family situation and other factors.
The Union of Municipalities expressed surprise at receiving an invoice for €45,000 for police coverage of carnival parades. A representative stated that this is unacceptable and unprecedented. The Assistant Police Chief explained that the decision to request expenses came from a lack of overtime funding. This decision applies to all events and was made due to the high number of events last year.
The Auditor General's report reveals that the PEC power plant in Vasilikos lacks the necessary permits to operate, as part of its infrastructure has been built on land not owned by the company. This results in the nullification of even the initial zoning permit obtained. Furthermore, the report documents the ongoing tolerance of state services for legal violations related to the project. The General Director of the Ministry of Interior is criticized for attempts to retroactively legalize the facility's constructions.
Public doctors are protesting again about the lack of proper consultation regarding the operation of university clinics. The president of the Pancyprian Government Doctors' Union, Sotiris Koumas, stated that their positions are not reflected in the new bill. He emphasizes the need to secure job positions and that the hierarchical structures must be addressed first. In recent years, many proposals have been rejected without satisfying their demands.
Two men were found dead in an apartment in Episkopi, and authorities are investigating the causes of their deaths. A portable grill was discovered nearby, raising questions about whether it was used for heating. Police are present at the scene conducting examinations. The autopsy results are awaited for further clarification.
A major case related to the Co-operative scandal has concluded, with the Court of Appeals acquitting the defendants from the Strovolos Co-operative. The six appeals filed by the Legal Service were dismissed as baseless. The Appeals Court confirmed the initial ruling of the Criminal Court, emphasizing the importance of considering testimony holistically. Thus, a case that began in 2017 comes to a close.
The Organization for Healthcare Insurance is establishing a monitoring team to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and surgical interventions. This team will consist of doctors and will conduct surprise inspections at hospitals within the General Healthcare System. The aim is to ensure that patient admissions are truly necessary. Adequate monitoring is expected to improve the functioning of the healthcare system.
The area is influenced by a weak high pressure with a gradual rise in temperature. Rain is expected from today until Saturday, with the possibility of snow in mountainous areas. Temperatures will range from 4 degrees inland to 16 degrees along the coast. On Thursday, the forecast indicates mostly clear weather with local rain and snow in the mountains.
The Prosperity Group CY is seeking negotiations with the government to restart a major project at the Larnaca marina and port, valued at €1.2 billion. The company's CEO, Panos Alexandrou, expressed concerns about the delays in reviewing the proposal and emphasized that the company has the necessary funds for completing the project's first phase. Completing the project is expected to create thousands of jobs. The delays are attributed to the government following the termination of the Kition Ocean Holdings contract.
Cyprus is promoting the involvement of local companies in the defense industry through new military programs. The newly established Defense Industry Council, chaired by the Minister of Defense, will coordinate efforts to enhance local defense material production. Collaborations with foreign firms will assist in acquiring modern armament systems. The goal is for the Cypriot Defense Industry to produce products that will strengthen national defense and other services.
The installation of new generators at the Dekelia station is necessary for the safety of the electricity system in Cyprus. The Ministry of Energy and the Electricity Authority agree that they should proceed with evaluating offers for maintenance and renewal of equipment. Social and technical factors make complete reliance on the Vasilikos unit challenging. However, delays in implementing collaborative projects by authorities complicate the situation further.
Four schools at the University of Cyprus will offer English-language degree programs. The Ministry of Education states that these programs will be self-funded and tuition fees will be calculated based on operational costs. The final decision on tuition fees will be made by the Council of Ministers. The sustainability of these programs is a key topic of discussion in the Education Committee.
Today, a new tax reform will be presented at the Presidential Palace by the President of the Republic and the team from the Center for Economic Research. The reform focuses on increasing the tax-free income threshold from 19,500 to 24,500 euros. The aim is to address the social and economic challenges facing the country. The government emphasizes that this is one of the most significant tax reforms since 2002.
Ersin Tatar, leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, states that Turkey does not intend to participate in negotiations for the Cyprus issue aiming for a two-state agreement. Instead, they will present themselves in Geneva with the approach that recognition of Turkish sovereignty and the 'TRNC' is necessary. Tatar emphasizes the need for acceptance of their sovereignty to start negotiations. His statements reinforce Turkey's position in the discussion about resolving the Cyprus issue.