President Nikos Christodoulides participated in an informal European Council in Copenhagen, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Readiness 2030 and the SAFE regulation for Europe's security. He condemned Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine and expressed solidarity with the victims. Cyprus aims to actively contribute to security and defense during its upcoming EU Council Presidency. He emphasized the need for equal treatment among states and that countries threatening security should not participate in EU tools. Finally, he mentioned plans to enhance infrastructure to improve the EU's collective security.
The Manneken Pis statue in Brussels was dressed in Cypriot traditional attire to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Cyprus's Independence. The event was attended by the Cypriot Ambassador to the EU and many Cypriots. The outfit was donated by the Cypriot Embassy in 2010. The costume is displayed at the Manneken Pis museum alongside other national costumes from EU member states. This event highlighted the importance of integrating ethnicities into European cultural heritage.
Cyprus is celebrating the 65th anniversary of its independence with a large military parade in Nicosia. The parade features motorized and foot divisions, as well as aerial units from the National Guard. Dignitaries, ambassadors, and a large crowd are present. President Nikos Christodoulides also attended a memorial service and laid wreaths to honor the fallen. Cyprus has acquired new military systems that may be showcased during the parade.
The United States has entered a shutdown for the first time since 2018, as Republicans and Democrats failed to reach an agreement on funding the federal government. This results in public employees being placed on unpaid leave, while many services will be suspended, although some essential operations will continue. Impacts are expected in areas such as education and social services. This situation could also affect the economy as a whole. The American political system facilitates repeated crises of this nature.
The Nicosia Police are investigating a case of premeditated murder. A woman died at the General Hospital of Nicosia after being transported there with serious injuries. The injuries resulted from head trauma. A 62-year-old suspect is expected to be arrested. The investigation is ongoing.
Starting today, the Ministry of Health takes over the oversight and control of the General Healthcare System (GeSY). A new Oversight Department is being established, allowing service providers to file complaints related to the system's operation. Responsibilities of the Oversight Commissioner are being transferred to the ministry. The department will also examine patient complaints and other issues needing investigation. The appointment of the Patient Ombudsman is also expected to be finalized soon.
An Iranian athlete and coach in Cyprus, who has contributed greatly to the sport of boxing, is facing challenges as his residence and work permit is not being renewed. He arrived in Cyprus as an asylum seeker 25 years ago and has won medals for the country. Despite his two marriages and children growing up in Cyprus, he is dealing with legal issues that affect his career. He had to look for work in the water distribution sector due to financial constraints. He has filed a lawsuit to challenge the decision that prevents him from continuing to work in Cyprus.
The government expects to collect around €9 billion in taxes in 2026, with €4.05 billion from direct taxes and €4.55 billion from indirect taxes. Income taxes from individuals are projected to rise, and revenues from legal entities are also expected to increase. Indirect taxes, including VAT, are anticipated to reach €4.55 billion in 2026. The state anticipates stable revenue growth from the self-employed category. Overall, it seems that the tax policy is leading to increasing revenues in the coming years.
Political transfers are not a new phenomenon but have intensified in the recent elections. Politicians like Irini Charalambidou and Kostas Kostas are in negotiations for inclusion in new candidate lists. This process reflects the fluidity of the political scene and the desire of party leaders to strengthen their teams. Charalambidou has been approached by DIKO, while Kostas appears to remain with AKEL. Relationships and agreements will be determined by the time of candidacy submissions.
61-year-old T.K. was sentenced for drug trafficking and was supposed to remain in prison until 2028, but was released in 2023 in Greece. After his release, he was arrested again for bringing 102 kilograms of drugs into Cyprus. The transfer to a Greek prison took place in October 2020. There are other inmates seeking transfer to Greece, and their requests are currently being reviewed. This situation highlights issues in prison management and the differences in legislation between the two countries.
A candidate for recruitment in the diplomatic service of Cyprus excelled in the written exams but was excluded from the final 20 after interviews. There are allegations of injustices and lack of fairness in the assessment of candidates. Several candidates are trying to overturn the decision through legal means. The evaluation process has raised reasonable questions about the impartiality of the Public Service Commission. They are seeking access to their files to understand the reasons for their exclusion.
The newspaper 'F' celebrates 70 years since its establishment, noting that despite changes, its essence remains the same. It highlights the importance of history and the need to remember past events. The paper records similarities in political and social issues that remain relevant today. A tribute featuring retrospectives of earlier editions aims to provide readers with a new perspective. The publication reminds us that society's challenges and concerns have not changed significantly over the years.