The Turkish automotive industry is achieving significant success with rising exports. In April, exports reached 121.17 billion lira, marking a 15% increase compared to the same month in 2024. While exports of passenger cars decreased, exports of buses and tractors saw impressive growth. Overall, Turkish automotive exports rose by 6.5% in the first four months of 2025.
Today at noon, 43-year-old George Konstantinou tragically died in a workplace accident at a construction site in Germasogeia. He was found dead in an elevator shaft, likely after falling due to open holes that should have been covered. The scene has been sealed off for investigation by the authorities, who are examining the safety conditions at the construction site. The case is still in the early stages of investigation.
The President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, visited the Presidential Palace in Cyprus, warmly welcomed by President Nikos Christodoulides. This visit is significant as it marks his first trip abroad since taking office. Both Presidents discussed the collaboration between Greece and Cyprus, especially in light of Cyprus assuming the EU presidency in 2026.
In Parliament, tensions arose during the Legal Committee meeting regarding the closure of the highway by the Cyprus Hunters' Party. MPs, including Damianos, questioned President Nikos Christodoulides' decisions and accused Justice Minister Marios Charalambous of a lack of intervention. Charalambous countered that it is not his role to interfere with police operations. This confrontation affected the flow of the discussion.
Forensic expert Panikos Stavrianos is taking new legal steps regarding the case of Thanasis Nikolaou. He will submit a request to the Limassol District Court with three main demands, including the reopening of the death inquiry. The developments are awaited with interest, as Thanasis Nikolaou's remains are currently stored in a mausoleum in Limassol, following the family's wishes. The procedure will involve sending new documents to the interested parties to clarify the next steps.
In the Zakaki area, a metal storage shed used for making firecrackers caught fire, causing alarm among local residents. The owner and the farmer expressed ignorance about the presence of the explosives, while authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. Several firecrackers and fireworks were found inside and around the shed, which will be sent for analysis. The explosions caused panic among neighbors and damage to the shed and nearby vehicles.
A man's body was found on the roof of a building in the Engomi area of Nicosia on Wednesday afternoon. The police have cordoned off the area and are investigating the circumstances of the man's death. Emergency services and a medical examiner have arrived at the scene. Further details are expected.
A heated confrontation occurred between MEP Loukas Fourlas and the Turkish Ambassador at the European Parliament. Fourlas argued that Turkey's demands for two states are unacceptable and emphasized the need for freedom for the Cypriots. Conversely, the Turkish diplomat claimed that Turkey was forced to protect Turkish Cypriots due to past conflicts. The dialogue took place in the presence of a second Turkish diplomat who observed without intervening.
The DISY criticizes ELAM for irresponsible actions in the European Parliament, which led to a serious defeat for Cyprus. ELAM attempted to promote a resolution against the Turkish President's visit, but the proposal was rejected due to lack of preparation and alliances. DISY emphasizes that such practices are dangerous for the national cause. Furthermore, it highlights the need for strategy and cooperation to strengthen Cyprus in Europe.
Giorgos Kyriakou, president of the Electrical Contractors of Cyprus, urged consumers to be present during the installation of smart meters by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC). He highlighted concerns regarding faulty installations that could lead to dangerous situations, such as fires. Property owners and tenants can monitor the process and prevent potential issues. He cited a recent fire incident at a home due to meter installation problems.
Intensive investigations are ongoing in Limassol following strong explosions that occurred on Tuesday night. Authorities discovered large quantities of firecrackers and fireworks in the burned warehouse that was completely destroyed. Witness statements and those of the warehouse owner are being collected to gather more evidence. The findings will be further examined to determine the circumstances of the explosions.
The conclave for the election of the 267th Pope begins today at the Vatican with 133 Cardinals gathering. The election process requires a two-thirds majority and is crucial for the future of the Roman Catholic Church. The Cardinals are divided between continuing Pope Francis's reforms and returning to a stricter theology. Key candidates include Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Tagle, representing different approaches.
Olguín is expected to arrive in Cyprus before the end of May to continue efforts regarding the Cyprus issue. The Cypriot government hopes for positive results, and the visit of the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy is considered significant. President Christodoulidis emphasizes that the Greek Cypriot side is not interested in mere confidence-building meetings, but focuses on the substantive issues of the Cyprus problem. He anticipates announcements that will aid in the resumption of talks.
In recent clashes between India and Pakistan, at least 11 civilians have been reported dead. Indian forces attacked targets in Pakistani territory, while both sides exchanged hundreds of artillery fire. Among the casualties is a three-year-old girl. Tensions continue along the Line of Control in the Kashmir region.
The election process has officially begun in EDEK, with three candidates preparing for the June 1st elections. Tensions persist within the party, particularly due to the rejection of Kostis Efstathiou's candidacy, who is protesting the Credentials Committee's decision. He argues that the current process is inappropriate, while relationships within the party remain strained.
By May 15th, handwritten prescriptions will no longer be accepted at hospital pharmacies. Doctors are urged to enter prescriptions into the GESY system, as patients continue to present handwritten prescriptions. The Health Insurance Organization has extended deadlines multiple times, but doctors need to complete this process to ensure treatments can continue smoothly. There is an urgent need for electronic submission of prescriptions so that patients can receive their medications.
Significant changes are coming to the public sector through upcoming legislation. These will include flexible working arrangements and reduced hours for parents and employees with disabilities. The President has announced that these measures are expected to be approved by the Cabinet before the end of May. The new proposals aim to improve the work-life balance for public servants.
A Cypriot depositor earns only half the interest compared to an Italian depositor for the same deposits. The deposit interest rate in Cyprus decreased to 1.41%, while in Italy it reaches 2.71%. Cypriot and Greek depositors are among the most 'disadvantaged' in the Eurozone. Borrowing rates also remain high in Cyprus.
Public doctors oppose the model of introducing university clinics into public hospitals, fearing job reductions. Their red line is that they should not lose jobs in favor of university doctors. While they accept the operation of university clinics, they question the way the system is being promoted. The proposed bill for the university clinics lacks explanations about its functionality or economic benefits.
The police have announced measures to better manage the traffic at Larnaca and Paphos airports during the tourist season. Previous incidents of overcrowding have led to the reinforcement of the Immigration Service with 16 police officers. Additionally, extra overtime work has been arranged to ensure adequate staffing at the checkpoints. Officials assured that all necessary steps are being taken to prevent issues in the future.