The European Parliament is set to condemn the unlawful detention of five Greek Cypriots by the occupying authorities. A discussion on this issue will take place in the Parliament's plenary session this week. The resolution will demand the immediate release of the detainees and highlight serious human rights violations. It will also address Turkey's responsibilities regarding this situation. The resolution will include proposals for diplomatic and legal actions against Turkey.
The government of Prime Minister François Bayrou in France has collapsed after failing to secure a vote of confidence from the National Assembly. With 194 votes in favor and 364 against, it did not achieve the necessary majority. Bayrou plans to submit his resignation tomorrow morning. This marks the fourth resignation of a prime minister under Emmanuel Macron. The situation intensifies the political crisis in the country.
The unions SEK, PEO, PASYDY, and DEOK have decided to proceed with a general strike on September 11. This decision came after an unproductive meeting with the Minister of Labor, where employers maintained their existing positions. The unions accused employers of rejecting any changes that could improve the situation. They are urging all workers to participate in the strike. The current situation remains negative, and no positive solutions were found.
The Government announces a new proposal for the Automatic Price Adjustment (ATA) that includes its extension to all workers, including those in the private sector. Emphasis is placed on the fair distribution of ATA, particularly for low-income earners. There is also a mechanism to ensure economic competitiveness and criteria to avoid inflation feedback. The Minister of Labor urged unions not to proceed with a strike to continue the dialogue. Legislative regulation of the institution requires implementing the proposed pillars.
Dimitris Dimitriou, former Deputy Chief of Police, has joined the DISY party's electoral list in Nicosia. The party's president, Annita Demetriou, highlighted his valuable service and experience. Dimitriou expressed gratitude for the nomination and his commitment to contributing to politics with a focus on public interest. With over 40 years of experience in law enforcement, he is ready to address security and other social issues. His aim is to serve the citizens with integrity and determination.
In Kalavryta, the abbot of the Cave Monastery and his assistant were arrested for planning to sell 17 Byzantine icons and two 18th-century Gospels. The clergyman was asking for €200,000 for the artifacts, one of which was reportedly stolen from Sparta. The arrest occurred during an organized police operation, where a female officer posed as a potential buyer. The confiscated items are now being examined by experts from the Ministry of Culture to verify their authenticity. This process highlights the importance of protecting cultural heritage.
Angeliki Riala has been announced as an ad hoc candidate on the DISY ballot in the Limassol district. The party leader, Annita Dimitriou, emphasized the importance of Riala's experience in education and social policy. Riala stated her focus will be on areas such as education, culture, and sustainable development. She expressed her belief in a politics grounded in humanity and human values. Riala’s candidacy appears to strengthen the party's ticket in the region.
The case of Thanasis Nikolaou is escalating with mutual accusations and threats. Lawyer Savvas Matzas filed a complaint with the Police about threats he has been receiving from individuals related to the case. The Nikolaou family plans to file private criminal lawsuits against those involved in the investigation of his death. The family's lawyers are reviewing the case, analyzing supporting material for legal proceedings. The situation continues to intensify with statements exchanged through social media and public responses.
Public employees will only be able to work remotely from their homes and not from cafes or public places. The new bill promotes flexible working, but the implementation of telework will depend on the needs of the service and the technological resources of the employees. Teleworking will be voluntary and requires agreement with the supervisor. The Minister and the Economic Committee are working to ensure principles of equality and disconnection. The issue of telework allowances in the private sector is also under discussion.
A major operation is underway in Nicosia concerning a case of attempted murder and the arson of four vehicles in Pyla. The investigation focuses on a warehouse where the vehicle used by the suspects was found, believed to be linked to an organized crime network from Syria. Five individuals have been arrested on suspicion of several serious criminal activities in recent months. The police are also investigating potential connections to other criminal incidents in the area. The case may lead to more arrests as investigations continue.
Finance Minister Makis Keraunos stated that there is no clear estimate for the cost and completion date of the electricity interconnection project. Some estimates suggest costs could range from 2 to 3 billion euros. He also highlighted geopolitical issues causing delays. Keraunos emphasized the need for information regarding the project's viability. Additionally, he expressed concerns that the project might have negative consequences for the economy.
The police arrested three students in Nicosia as part of checks for the start of the school year. The students, all 18 years old and from the same school, were found with weapons in their vehicles. The findings included bats, a firework launcher, and other types of fireworks. The checks aim to reduce juvenile delinquency. The police will continue to monitor school activities.
The 32-year-old arrested for arson in the Troodos State Forest admitted to throwing three extinguished cigarettes during his birthday walk. He stated he had no malicious intent to cause a fire. The court approved his detention for six days. Police investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the fire. The suspect faces charges of arson and violations of the Forest Law.
A new regulation on photo enforcement fines will reduce the penalty for jaywalking from €300 to €85. This amendment was proposed by MP Marinos Mousiouttas and has been approved by the relevant authorities. The pilot implementation of the regulation is expected to begin at the end of November 2025, with full implementation expected by the end of the first quarter of 2026. The changes will allow for technical testing and adjustments to the photo enforcement system. The aim is to ensure that the new regulations are functioning correctly.
President Nikos Christodoulides stated that Cyprus is fully committed to the electrical interconnection project, which he considers of geostrategic importance. He emphasized the need for all parties involved to uphold their commitments. He mentioned international efforts for cooperation and investments, including his recent visit to the UAE. He noted that both Cyprus and Greece have specific obligations. Finally, he highlighted the importance of taking action rather than engaging in public disputes.
On the night of Sunday, September 7, residents of Greece and Cyprus witnessed a rare lunar eclipse, known as the 'blood moon'. The total phase of the eclipse was visible from 20:30 to 21:52, peaking at 21:11. The phenomenon occurred as the Moon passed into the Earth's shadow, taking on a red hue. The eclipse was also observed in other parts of the world, including Asia and Western Australia. Many photographers and amateur astronomers captured this impressive spectacle.
The labor environment in Cyprus has become more challenging, with increasing labor disputes and more strikes taking place. A new general strike is expected on September 11, as negotiations for the Automatic Indexation have stalled. Workers from various sectors, including public and semi-public organizations, will participate in the strike. The last general strike occurred in January 2023, marking significant participation. Cyprus has experienced similar strikes in the past, the most notable being in 1944.
Consumers' rights regarding organized holiday trips are expected to improve significantly. The new rules will provide better information on cancellations and refunds. Clear definitions of what constitutes a travel package will be established. This initiative arises from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic and the bankruptcy of Thomas Cook. The aim is to ensure consumer protection in the tourism sector.
Today, discussions begin in the Economic Committee about introducing remote work in the public sector. The proposed bill allows for mixed remote work, combining office and home work. It includes conditions for implementation and guidelines for services and employees. Additionally, proposals for amendments regarding the secondment of public servants will be discussed. The discussions will also cover the bill on direct foreign investments.
The Republic of Cyprus is taking long-term actions to reduce water loss in the water supply networks. With government funding of €13.5 million, projects are set to be implemented that are expected to reduce daily losses by nearly 18,000 cubic meters. A significant aspect of the initiative is the assessment of unbilled water, which will help in effective water resource management. The aim is to comply with European obligations and manage water resources sustainably. This study is expected to be completed within 24 months.
Cyprus has repeatedly expressed its commitment to the electric interconnection project GSI, yet government circles are concerned about the continuation of public dialogue. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urges Cyprus to prove it genuinely desires the project, emphasizing its importance for the island's energy isolation. Meanwhile, the Cypriot opposition is demanding explanations from the government regarding Mitsotakis's requirements. Disagreements focus on Cyprus's financial obligations to Greece for the interconnection. The situation appears to create tension between the governments and parties.
President Christodoulides has prepared proposals to advance the Cyprus issue and is awaiting a meeting with Olguin. Olguin will visit Nicosia for discussions with both sides. Christodoulides emphasized he is ready to present specific ideas for the process. He also mentioned a message sent to the White House regarding the five Greek Cypriots who are held illegally. The upcoming meeting before the UN General Assembly is crucial for resuming negotiations.
Lieutenant General Georgios Tsitsikostas is stepping down as the head of the National Guard of Cyprus. The process for selecting a new leader is well underway, with Defense Minister Vasilis Palamas already in discussions with Greece. Developments are expected at the next Cabinet meeting regarding the approval of a new name. The selection process is now focusing on active duty officers. This approach aims to strengthen cooperation between Cyprus and Greece.