The 'Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act' focuses on enhancing U.S. energy and defense cooperation with Eastern Mediterranean countries, including Greece and Cyprus. The House International Affairs Committee has voted in favor of the bill, which is set to be presented to the plenary. It includes strategic projects such as the Greece-Egypt interconnection and the Greece-Bulgaria gas pipeline. Its goal is to elevate the Eastern Mediterranean as a strategic entry point to the IMEC corridor. The bill promotes regional cooperation and strengthening diplomatic ties.
Fidias Panayiotou responds to accusations against him in a video, asserting he is neither a liar nor a fraud. He denies using European Parliament funds for his apartment rent and keeps track of his expenses. He explains that he lends money to his employees until they are paid by the parliament. He also mentions that he has informed the European Parliament about the app his party created. Finally, he commits to publishing his monthly expenses for transparency.
Fidias Panayiotou, a member of the European Parliament, is considering running for the upcoming parliamentary elections with the Immediate Democracy party. Candidates will be selected through the party's online platform, with around 20,000 members expected to participate. Voting will take place from March 3 to 5, and 56 candidates will be chosen. He intends to run for the party's presidency if elected. The application for registering Immediate Democracy as a political party is currently under review by the Ministry of Interior.
The conflict continues between Police Chief Themistocles Arnaoutis and police union representatives regarding the new work schedule. Arnaoutis claims his decision is based on 2019 agreements and rejects proposals to suspend it. The unions argue that there is a lack of dialogue and respect towards the officers. Tensions arise during the session, with remarks causing reactions. Both sides remain firm in their positions, with no agreement in sight.
Set designer Kostas Kafkaridis passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a significant legacy in Cypriot theater. He was a key figure both as a set designer and a teacher, participating in numerous productions and co-founding the New Theatre. His career included collaborations with renowned playwrights and directors. He faced major challenges, especially with the loss of his brother, yet continued to pursue their vision for theatre. His creative contributions were crucial in the development of the theatrical culture in Cyprus.
The General Accountant Andreas Antoniades presented a list of logos from companies that donated to the Independent Social Support Agency's fund to the Parliament. He notes that legal guidance is pending regarding the publication of information without consent. The logos of the main donors for the academic years 2024-2025 and 2023-2024 are available on the Agency's website. This information is posted in accordance with the decisions of the Supreme Constitutional Court. The process ensures proper authorization before publication.
The weather will be generally cloudy with strengthening winds and temperatures around 12 degrees. Tonight, rain is expected along with possible snow on higher peaks. Over the next few days, the weather will remain cloudy with local rains and possible thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to gradually rise to normal levels. There is already 22 cm of snow reported in the Troodos mountains.
In the Institutions Committee, MPs George Loukaides and Andreas Themistocleous had a heated argument. Themistocleous called Loukaides a 'political thug' and emphasized that his accusations were 'unacceptable'. Loukaides countered by labeling Themistocleous as the 'biggest political rogue'. The confrontation became personal and led to clashes in the chamber. Ultimately, Loukaides called for order from the Committee's president.
Two packages of cocaine were found in Cyprus, one of which was hidden in a board game. The 28-year-old suspect picked up the package from a Box Now locker and was immediately arrested by the Anti-Drug Police. The cocaine in the first package weighed 1,092 grams, while the second had different sender and recipient details. Authorities are also investigating the second package, and judicial processes for the 28-year-old are ongoing. The police are looking for information on possible accomplices.
Giorgos Gavriel discusses his controversial artwork that depicts the President of the Republic in a provocative manner, reflecting on the political situation. Experts highlight the importance of art in provoking thought and raising awareness. The artist emphasizes that art must address crucial issues, even if it offends. Reactions to his work reflect societal concerns regarding current political conditions. As Gavriel states, art can be disturbing, but it is essential for social change.
Cyprus invited Turkish President Erdoğan to participate in an informal EU Summit, but Turkey declined the invitation. President Christodoulides mentioned that the initial response from Turkey was not positive. Despite this setback, Cyprus continues its efforts for positive developments. The participation of other Turkish officials is being considered, but the situation remains challenging. The aim is to create favorable conditions for collaboration.
Joanna Fotio, known as Annie Alexui, is wanted in Paphos for involvement in false news and harassment. These actions took place between January and October of 2025. Authorities are seeking information to locate her. She is believed to have violated the Personal Data Processing Law. Anyone with information can contact the police or the Citizen's Line.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) is not commenting on the case against MEP Feidias Panagiotou, following its usual practice to protect ongoing investigations. An EPPO representative stated that, as a rule, they do not confirm which cases they are handling. This is done to avoid jeopardizing the proceedings and their outcomes. Any updates regarding ongoing investigations are provided only at the initiative of the EPPO itself. This approach ensures the integrity of the investigations.
President Donald Trump's Air Force One made an emergency landing at Andrews Base to switch aircraft. The landing was prompted by an identified electrical issue. The president will continue his journey to Davos to speak at the Economic Forum. Incidents related to the safety of the president rarely occur, but they are not unheard of. The situation was handled swiftly to ensure the safety of the presidential trip.
The next draw of the JOKER will distribute at least €14,200,000 for the winners of the first category. This draw will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2026. In the recent draw, someone won €100,000 in the second category. The drawn numbers were 27, 45, 7, 32, 2 and the Joker number was 9. Draws take place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
Yesterday afternoon, an unknown man knocked on the door of a mobile home and, threatening with a knife, stole money and two mobile phones from the occupants, aged 73 and 66. The occupants were unharmed and visited the hospital as a precaution. The police are investigating the case, and the stolen phones were found in the area. The situation was frightening for the residents, but fortunately, they did not suffer serious injuries. The police are continuing their search for the perpetrator.
The Environmental Authority is expected to issue its final opinion on the Local Plan for the Ayia Thekla area by February 2026. Local authorities support the upgrade of the tourist zone, but this may have negative effects on the protected area. Stavros Karamanthanas, CEO of Ayia Napa Marina, complains that the investment terms changed due to the lack of reference to the Natura 2000 Network. Investors are anxious and awaiting the Authority's decisions. The situation indicates that despite development aspirations, there are serious ecological concerns.
EU finance ministers have initiated an excessive deficit procedure for Finland due to its deficit exceeding 3% of GDP. Finland has recorded a deficit of 4.4% in 2024 and 4.3% in 2025. European authorities expect Finland to present measures to reduce the deficit by April 2026. This process does not involve fines but leads to increased supervision by the EU. If necessary measures are not implemented, there may be warnings or even financial penalties.
President Christodoulides is ready to reveal his positions and consider unilateral gestures towards the Turkish Cypriot side, provided that negotiations take place. He has communicated with Tufan Erhurman regarding the requirements of both sides. However, the likelihood of returning to the negotiation table currently seems remote. Maria Angela Olguin is set to visit the island soon for new contacts, but there has not yet been any response from the Turkish Cypriots. The President also shows willingness for new initiatives in the economy and health sectors.
Cyprus is preparing to issue a 10-year bond in 2026, supported by major international banks. The aim is to capitalize on positive credit ratings and its good fiscal situation. The borrowing cost will depend on growth forecasts and fiscal discipline amidst changes in the global geopolitical landscape. Cyprus's financing needs are expected to increase in the coming years, with 75% of these needs coming from external sources. Debt repayments in 2026 are projected to reach €2.29 billion.
The Cypriot Presidency begins during a challenging time for the European Union, facing significant crises. Donald Trump's threats of tariffs have raised concerns. European leaders are convening in an emergency European Council to discuss their responses. President Nikos Christodoulides emphasizes the need for dialogue with the U.S. Despite efforts, reaching an agreement appears difficult.
The police are facing pressure due to their inability to combat the rise of organized crime in Larnaca. There is an ongoing war between two factions threatening business owners for control over nightlife and offering protection. Recent incidents of violence, including shootings and extortion, have raised concerns among residents. While some arrests have been made, the police seem unable to manage the situation effectively. This ineffectiveness has led to significant criticism of the police leadership.
A video mentioning corruption allegations within the Presidency is back in focus due to the parliamentary committee on Institutions. The committee's session will discuss the submission of a list of donors to the Social Support Agency by the General Accountant, Andreas Antoniades. The video includes conversations that raise questions about investments and political responsibilities. The discussion aims to investigate the relationship between the issues raised and factual data. Mr. Antoniades is expected to clarify whether he can provide the requested information to the Parliament.