Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos is traveling to Israel for discussions about the Cypriot proposal for Gaza. The visit is a result of recent diplomatic contacts, focusing on humanitarian aid and energy cooperation. Also, the role of Turkey in Gaza will be a key topic of the talks. In addition, Kombos will visit the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) related to stabilizing the area. The views and positions of surrounding countries regarding Turkey will be critical issues in these discussions.
Calm has returned to the buffer zone in Deneia, according to the community leader Charalambos Alexandrou. The situation was resolved after actions were taken by the Cypriot government and UNFICYP. It involved the harassment of a Greek Cypriot farmer who tried to cultivate his land. The community leader hopes that similar incidents will not happen in the future. The government assured that there was communication with the UN.
The Cyprus Presidency of the EU, starting in 2026, introduces a new direct flight connection between Larnaca and Brussels. Flights are set to begin in December and will increase during the Presidency. This route will facilitate transportation and visits to Cyprus, expecting around 28,000 visitors throughout 2026. The government collaborated with the European Commission to implement this agreement, which was deemed crucial. The agreement will soon be published with the number of flights scheduled each month.
On Saturday morning in Deneia, tensions arose when Greek Cypriot farmers entered the Buffer Zone to cultivate their land. A Turkish military vehicle was sent to the area to obstruct them. The United Nations arrived at the scene to calm the situation. Ultimately, both the farmers and the Turkish soldiers left the area. The Ministry of Defense is closely monitoring the developments.
Norway has decided to lift its arms embargo against Cyprus after 65 years. President Christodoulides expressed his satisfaction with this development. The decision was made during a communication with the Norwegian Foreign Minister. This move is related to the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council and Norway's desire to maintain open communication channels. The government spokesperson described the decision as a significant step for defense cooperation between the two countries.
A man was found dead at the beach near Ayia Napa on Saturday morning. He was face down on the rocks and had injuries to his face. The police are investigating whether the injuries were caused by a fall. The body will be transferred to the General Hospital of Ammochostos. The results of the autopsy are awaited to determine the cause of death.
In Limassol, a car parked outside a kiosk caught fire while its owner was inside. The fire appears to have been maliciously set and caused extensive damage to the front of the vehicle. A passing driver with a fire extinguisher managed to put out the flames. The police are investigating the case to find the culprits. There are significant damages to the car, and authorities are looking into the motives behind the arson.
Greece is making strides in hydrocarbon exploration, with a recent agreement signed with ExxonMobil for 'block 2' in the Ionian Sea. This agreement paves the way for the first exploratory drilling in 40 years. Simultaneously, negotiations are underway with Chevron for areas south of the Peloponnese and Crete. The Minister of Environment highlighted the historical opportunities arising for the country's energy sector. If commercially exploitable reserves are confirmed, Greece could achieve energy self-sufficiency.
Constantinos Papadakis has opened a bakery in New York called 'Hello Halloumi,' promoting Cypriot cuisine. The business focuses on halloumi and offers a variety of savory baked goods. Papadakis aims to create a community around his heritage by providing familiar flavors from Cyprus. Despite the challenges he faced in securing a location, he successfully established his idea. The bakery also supports other small Cypriot businesses through supplier collaborations.
On Friday night, a traffic accident occurred in Nicosia involving a vehicle and a 19-year-old motorcyclist. The young rider was moving on 28th October Avenue when the collision happened. The police are investigating the circumstances of the accident, including whether the vehicle driver was going the wrong way. The motorcyclist was taken to the General Hospital of Nicosia with abrasions and received first aid before being discharged. Fortunately, his injuries do not appear to be serious.
The recent passing of legislation grants the Chief of Police the authority to issue firearm permits, limiting potential political interference. This new law comes after 20 years of amendments to the relevant framework. There were previously instances of political figures intervening, which jeopardized the integrity of the security committee. A minister had previously requested reconsideration of denied firearm applications, despite recommendations from other services. The new framework appears to set stricter regulations for firearm possession in the country.
The upcoming elections for the new Archbishop of Paphos are expected to face challenges, as noted by theologian Theodoros Kyriakou. There are concerns that some voters may choose the former Archbishop Tychikos, despite his ineligibility. Kyriakou suggests that the elections should be conducted using ballots to ensure the integrity of the process. The election has been postponed to 2026 due to legal issues and the health of Tychikos. The situation regarding the electoral process is complex and requires careful attention.
The government is initiating a discussion in Parliament regarding tax reform, adopting a more open dialogue for possible changes. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos is willing to accept modifications to expand the number of beneficiaries for tax deductions. The eligible annual income for tax deductions might increase from €80,000 to €90,000. The proposed changes will lower taxes for many categories, especially families with children or housing loans. The goal of the reform is to provide financial relief to citizens.
The investigation into the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous is progressing as investigators await crucial telecommunications data to solve the case. They are particularly focused on data from three Georgians who are considered key suspects. Significant evidence linking the suspects to the crime has already been collected. The 31-year-old Georgian, who claims his right to silence, is expected to play a crucial role in the case's development. Meanwhile, the detention of a 30-year-old suspect has been extended due to serious evidence against him.
The rent for a Turkish Cypriot commercial property has dramatically increased from €2,000 to €80,000, according to the Turkish Cypriot Properties Management Office. This change comes after delayed contract reviews that are now being enforced. The significant increases mainly affect large commercial properties that have generated substantial profits. There is a three-year transitional period for imposing these increases. The Interior Minister highlighted the need for better management of Turkish Cypriot properties.
Tomorrow is an important day for EDEK as the new party leadership calls on members to participate in the nationwide conference. The party is at a crucial juncture ahead of the May parliamentary elections. There are hopes for the return of former members, who are expected to assist in mobilizing supporters. Despite statements from the leadership, they acknowledge that achieving their goals is challenging. EDEK's presence in Parliament is vital for continuing its parliamentary work.
Twenty years after the decision to create 14 golf courses in Cyprus, only four are currently operational. Despite government policies, these courses continue to be irrigated with governmental water. In 2024, the Water Development Department allocated 400,000 cubic meters of recycled water for golf courses, amidst ongoing drought conditions. The Department plans to assess the golf courses due to pressure on water resources. The continuation of water supply to these courses raises questions about water management.
There is an increasing demand for professional military training in Cyprus as citizens seek training in essential military skills. Many Cypriots choose to attend seminars abroad due to the inadequacy of training provided by the National Guard. Private military training is illegal in Cyprus under the Penal Code, with severe penalties for violators. Trainers from abroad are interested in providing their services in Cyprus, requesting changes in legislation. There is a prospect for cooperation between the National Guard and private trainers.