The Holy Metropolis of Tamassos and Oreini announced the passing of the former Metropolitan of Kiti, Chrysostomos. He was from the Tamassos region and was known for his piety. Authorities are praying for the salvation of his soul. They express their sorrow and honor his memory. Chrysostomos will leave a legacy in the local community.
The Cypriot government expresses satisfaction with the clarification from ADMHE regarding the electrical interconnection of Greece-Cyprus-Israel. The Presidents of Cyprus and Greece emphasized their commitment to the implementation of this strategic project. Recent meetings between the two leaders reaffirmed their cooperation. Cyprus places its relationship with Greece above technical issues. There have also been internal reactions in Cyprus regarding the matter.
Alexei Kratzgour, a 47-year-old man, was arrested at Larnaca port based on an international warrant issued by Russia. He allegedly played a significant role in the piracy of the Arctic Sea ship 16 years ago. The piracy led to various speculations about secret weapon cargo and intelligence connections. Kratzgour had previously been arrested for this case in 2009 but fled and was declared wanted. His recent arrest is expected to lead to a swift extradition process to Russia.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was informed about the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection during an extraordinary meeting. Significant issues have arisen due to new demands from ADMIE related to the Cypriot Energy Regulatory Authority. President Nikos Christodoulides countered that the Cypriot government is not being blackmailed and maintains full understanding with the Greek government regarding the project. There is a joint agreement to advance the project, and the processes are moving forward as agreed. Interviews and public statements are expected soon.
Former PASOK MP, George Prasianaakis, has passed away at the age of 89. He studied law and had a significant political career, serving as an MP from 1990 to 1993. He was known for his commitment to social justice and rights. The condolences from PASOK - KINAL honor his life dedicated to politics and education. His funeral will take place on October 7 in Chrysafti, according to his wishes.
A 47-year-old Greek Cypriot was arrested for arson on an electricity meter in Nicosia. The fire caused damage to the building's electrical installation and other structures. The man was placed in custody for four days following witness statements gathered by the police. The fire broke out on October 4th and is being investigated by the Homicide Department. The situation remains under investigation by the authorities.
President Nikos Christodoulides made strong statements against ADMIE regarding the funding of the Greece-Cyprus-Israel cable. These comments have raised concerns in Athens, as they may negatively affect the project's prospects. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is holding an emergency meeting to discuss the situation with the Environmental Ministry leadership and ADMIE. Cyprus insists it will not yield to blackmail and demands clear roadmaps from ADMIE. Ongoing disputes continue regarding the disbursement of funds and the project's requirements.
The ADMHE responds to a publication and denies a previous announcement. They state that they are only seeking 25 million euros and not the total amount of 251 million euros spent. There is no mention of the President's statement regarding extortion. RAEK has only recognized 82 million euros of ADMHE's expenses. ADMHE plans to take legal action to claim their costs.
A low-pressure system will affect Cyprus, bringing a drop in temperature and localized rain starting Tuesday evening. The temperatures will remain normal until Tuesday evening, reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius inland. From Wednesday to Thursday, temperatures will decrease to 25-26 degrees. The impact will be most noticeable in Nicosia, where rainfall is likely. This is the first weather change of the year for Cyprus.
A fatal traffic accident occurred in Limassol, resulting in the death of a 17-year-old from Syria. The police are investigating the incident, focusing on the speed of the motorcyclist and his behavior before the collision. Witnesses reported that the teenager ran a 'STOP' sign and was traveling at a high speed. The 35-year-old driver of the car involved was tested for alcohol and drugs with negative results. This serious incident has raised concerns among local residents due to the frequency of accidents in the area.
President Nikos Christodoulides stated that the Cypriot government is not being blackmailed by the Electricity Transmission System Operator (ADMIE). He commented on a publication claiming that ADMIE has submitted an objection regarding payment regulations for the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection. Christodoulides emphasized the cooperation between the Cypriot and Greek governments in advancing the project. He assured that the government will only support the interests of the Cypriot people. He also noted that the Greek government does not decide on ADMIE's actions.
Stefanos Stefanu emphasizes the importance of a strong AKEL for progressive change. The party aims to strengthen itself in the upcoming parliamentary elections to be a key player in the 2028 presidential elections. AKEL leadership is considering collaborations even with candidates outside the party, but the possibility of losing is concerning. They hope to achieve votes above 20% to maintain their ambitions. The approach also includes addressing issues of corruption.
Turkey considers the entire occupied area of Cyprus as a military base for its geopolitical plans. Nicosia is strengthening the National Guard and pursuing collaborations to improve its security. The acquisition of the Israeli Barak MX missile system by the Republic of Cyprus particularly annoys Turkey. Cyprus aims to become a pillar of security in the region, recognizing its strategic position. Its collaborations with third countries aim to create a safer environment.
The European Commission is rapidly promoting new plans to shift funds from savings to investments, aiming to leverage around 10 trillion euros from European citizens' deposits. Two initiatives for the Savings and Investment Union have been announced to make investment opportunities more accessible to citizens. The savings and investment accounts will help Europeans manage their money better and save for their future. The Commission will monitor the implementation of these plans to enhance financial knowledge and autonomy among citizens. Cyprus is also expected to actively participate in the Commission's recommendations.
The meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and Mark Rutte was organized at the initiative of NATO's Secretary-General. The main topic was Turkey's participation in the EU SAFE program, amid concerns from Ankara regarding its absence. Rutte attempted to advocate for Turkey's request to join, highlighting Turkey's defense needs. The process for Turkey's inclusion is complicated, requiring the consensus of all EU member states. The situation remains tense due to Turkey's relationship with Cyprus and Greece.
The MIT is believed to have guided migrant flows from Syria to Cyprus. A Turkish court ruled on a 2018 shipwreck case that resulted in the deaths of 19 people. In this case, two informants linked to the MIT were not examined, raising concerns about immigration policies. Journalist Abdullah Bozkurt revealed information supporting these claims. The situation highlights the need for careful scrutiny of migrant flows.
The AΔΜΗΕ is reacting to delays in payments from the Cypriot government regarding the electricity interconnection project. They are demanding higher compensation from the RAEK for project expenses. The organization questions the regulatory decision that limits their payments during construction. Cyprus is only required to pay 25 million euros annually until 2029, as per previous agreements. This situation is creating tensions between Cyprus and Greece.