Donald Trump expressed his admiration for King Charles in a post on Truth Social. He referenced the king's proposal for the US to become a connected member of the Commonwealth. Trump seemed to support this idea, hoping to improve relations between the US and Canada. It is also noted that 2026 marks 250 years since America's independence from Britain.
Cyprus registered the highest water scarcity index in the EU in 2022, with a water exploitation indicator of 71%, showing a significant increase since 2000. The overall WEI+ index in the EU was 5.8% in 2022, and Cyprus indicates serious water scarcity with levels above 40%. Other southern European countries also face water scarcity issues. The WEI+ index measures water consumption in relation to available renewable water resources.
The Department of Road Transport announced a new list of 113 Citroën vehicles that must be immobilized due to issues with Takata airbags. The total number of vehicles under recall has reached 374. Vehicle owners are advised to contact CIC AUTOMASTERS LTD for further instructions regarding the recall. This decision is crucial for driver safety.
An asylum seeker in Cyprus, who confessed to murdering women in his home country, has been denied release despite his request. The Supreme Court ruled that his detention is necessary for the protection of national security and public order. The seeker has been excluded from supplementary protection status due to serious crimes. The Asylum Service periodically reviews his detention and is seeking ways to deport him.
Next week is expected to be crucial for the drilling at the 'Electra' target in the Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone. Results from the ExxonMobil and Qatar Energy partnership are anticipated. The Minister of Energy, George Papanastasiou, stated that indicators are positive but advised caution. Meetings with ExxonMobil and Chevron in the US are also scheduled regarding the commercialization of Cypriot natural gas reserves.
In the Cabo Greco area, three bodies have been identified from a shipwreck involving Syrian migrants. Two survivors recognized the inexperienced pilots responsible for the accident. There are conflicting reports regarding the boat's departure point and the date of sailing. Search efforts for survivors at the site have concluded, but patrols continue for border protection.
The cross-examination of the 50-year-old defendant in the double murder case in Ypsonas was extensive and challenging. The defendant insists that he did not commit the murders and claims he remained calm during the incidents. Despite the prosecutor's probing questions, he denies any involvement and does not recognize anyone present. His lawyer emphasized that he had friendly relations with the victims and no intention of harm.
After two rounds of discussions, the Ministry of Justice and the Union of Municipalities reached an agreement on changes regarding the regulations for lambrazzia. However, it remains uncertain whether the new provisions will come into effect this year. The Minister of Justice emphasized the need to preserve and institutionalize the tradition, highlighting the importance of collaboration. Certain initial proposals have been modified to facilitate the process.
A fake Facebook profile using the name and photo of President Christodoulides is attempting to scam citizens online. The profile shares posts from the official account of the Cypriot Government and sends messages about supposed 'sponsorships.' The Cyber Crime Unit is investigating a citizen's complaint regarding this matter. Citizens are urged to be cautious and not respond to such messages.
The police conducted searches at the Central Prisons but found no illegal items in a detainee's cell. However, they discovered €160,000 at a relative’s property and arrested a man for illegal possession of property. The investigation is ongoing to locate a second individual. Additionally, a mobile phone was found in one of the cells.
Cypriot MEPs express concerns about potential cooperation between the EU and Turkey in defense and funding issues. The EU proposal involves an €800 billion budget aimed at enhancing defense readiness by 2030. During the discussion, some MEPs believe the proposal could improve Cyprus's stability, while others highlight the risks of including Turkey in the plan. Finally, the need for the EU to reduce its dependence on third countries is emphasized.
The French police have arrested a 34-year-old man who is accused of drugging and raping at least 15 women. The allegations came to light after two women reported distressing experiences after having coffee with him. The suspect admitted to his actions and is facing charges for rape and administering substances without the victims' consent. The case is developing, with serious legal consequences for the accused.
Authorities are working to regulate the use of electric scooters to enhance road safety. During a meeting of the Road Safety Council, proposals for stricter regulations, including establishing 30km/h zones in urban areas, were discussed. The aim is to reduce accidents and regulate scooter usage. Additionally, municipalities will receive financial incentives to implement this plan.
A flight from Larnaca Airport to Heathrow in London was canceled due to a fire affecting the airport. Four British Airways flights were scheduled today, but the situation at Heathrow remains uncertain. While a second departure from Larnaca is planned for the afternoon, it's unclear if arrivals and departures will proceed as planned. Passengers are advised to stay updated on developments.
The police arrested a 40-year-old man for the appropriation of properties belonging to Greek Cypriots in the occupied areas. The arrest took place at Larnaca Airport as the man was preparing to travel to another European country. The charges include felonies related to fraudulent property transactions. The case is being investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department.
Two players from Omonia reported an attack by AEL fans during the stoppage of the futsal game. Although they underwent examinations, they did not appear to be injured. The situation arose from tensions on the court, leading fans to enter the playing area. The fate of the match will be decided by the Sports Judge.
In the next Joker draw on 23/03/2025, the jackpot will be at least €7,700,000. Nine lucky tickets won €100,000 each in the second category, with one ticket submitted in Limassol. Players can submit tickets daily at OPAP Cyprus stores. The deadline for submissions is until 21:30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
The conflict between DISY and ELAM continues over comments regarding the Cyprus issue. DISY accuses ELAM of lack of respect and is trying to retain its voters. Meanwhile, ELAM insists on demanding clear answers about Annita Dimitriou's positions. This confrontation reflects both parties' efforts to influence future electoral dynamics.
The Legal Service is organizing a major meeting regarding the case of the president of the KOP, George Koumas, in early April. The investigations are nearing completion, and the findings from the 15-month inquiry will be discussed. There are suspicions of offenses committed by KOP officials, aiming for a criminal investigation of potential violations. The Attorney General has appointed an independent criminal investigator to assist in this inquiry.
The Ministry of Agriculture has reduced the minimum quota for goat's milk in halloumi from 30% to 20%. This decision comes despite data suggesting producers can provide more than 24%. The new decree allows for the creation of two types of halloumi: mixed and 100% goat's milk. These changes may impact the overall production and exports of halloumi.
The University of Cyprus is required to comply with a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the claims of 22 academics regarding the cut of their allowances. These allowances were included in their salary by the University Law until 2013 when they were cut due to the financial crisis. The ruling confirms that these allowances constitute property rights protected by the Constitution. The university is now considering how to implement this decision for the academic community.
In Geneva, discussions regarding the appointment of a personal envoy from the UN Secretary-General faced challenges due to Ersin Tatar's negative stance. Despite his opposition, he eventually accepted the appointment but with limitations on the envoy’s role. The next informal meeting was proposed to take place at the end of July, while discussions about Olguin's appointment continued without agreement. The Secretary-General insisted on the importance of appointing an envoy for Cyprus.
The Ministry of Finance has made improvements to the bills related to the 'Renovate - Rent' scheme. The new provisions offer tax incentives to property owners who provide affordable rents to specific income groups. Additionally, property owners will be able to claim capital allowances and tax exemptions. These changes are expected to have a positive fiscal impact until 2027.
The government and Parliament are working urgently to amend the legislation of the General Health System (GeSY) to prevent doctors outside the system from prescribing medications. A bill prepared by the Ministry of Health is expected to be voted on next Thursday. The Minister of Health emphasized that there is agreement among the government and political parties on the same direction. The processes are moving quickly to resolve the legal gaps identified by the Court.