President Christodoulides and Prime Minister Meloni agreed to create a joint partnership document between Cyprus and Italy. Their talks in Rome strengthened the strategic cooperation of the two countries. Italy acknowledged Cyprus's important role in the Middle East and in promoting IMEC. Both leaders stated they would work towards completing the relevant document, which will outline their common objectives. The collaboration focuses on challenges such as migration and competitiveness.
Important developments have emerged from the surveillance case involving the Predator software, where four defendants were found guilty and sentenced to a total of 126 years and 8 months in prison, with suspension until the appeal is heard. The defendants include businessman Tal Dilian, Sara Hamou, Felix Bidzios, and Giannis Lavranos. They were convicted for interference with personal data, violation of telephone communication privacy, and illegal access to information systems. The prosecutor indicated that no leniency would be granted due to the severity of the case. The court connected espionage directly to the company and its links to Israel.
The accused of rape and sexual assault against his former partner will serve ten years in prison. The Court of Appeal upheld the decision of the Criminal Court, rejecting the defendant's appeal. Their relationship began in 2020, and there were several incidents of violence, with the most severe occurring in April 2022. The complainant reported the incident and underwent medical examinations that documented injuries. The defendant claimed that the sexual contact was consensual, but the court did not accept his defense.
The Parliament has amended the law regarding public gatherings, which was voted on last year, to align with OSCE recommendations. The new law simplifies the organization of events, as it no longer requires a permit and the organizer is not liable for participants' actions. Additionally, participants can protest while wearing hoods, with certain conditions. However, some provisions allow police intervention in cases of violence. The legislation aims to bolster the protection of the right to peaceful assembly.
The Ministry of Transport proposes changes for the use of electric scooters and bicycles. Recommendations include raising the minimum usage age from 14 to 16 years and introducing labeling for scooters. This labeling will facilitate safer usage and monitoring of devices. Additionally, the maximum speed is suggested to be reduced, along with establishing specifications based on European standards. The proposal collaborates with insurance companies to allow coverage for users.
Nicosia has been listed among the 20 best destinations in Europe for 2026, as per the annual list by European Best Destinations. The ranking is based on traveler votes and key indicators of tourism development. The list also includes two Greek locations: Upper Koufonisi and Avlemonas in Kythera. The selection was made based on factors like popularity on social media and sustainability. The final ranking was derived from over 1.3 million voters.
Customer Service Centers and offices of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus will be closed on Friday morning, February 27, due to a work stoppage by employees. The offices will remain closed from 7:45 AM to 10:00 AM, with normal service resuming afterwards. The Authority assures that electricity supply will not be affected. Additionally, customers can pay their bills electronically. The organization has taken all necessary measures to ensure the system operates smoothly.
Michele Hundley Smith, a mother of three, who went missing in 2001, was found alive 25 years later. She had left for Christmas shopping and never returned. Authorities announced that she is well and located in North Carolina. Her family experiences mixed emotions, with her daughter expressing both joy and sadness simultaneously. The family searched for Smith for two decades and has many questions regarding her disappearance.
A serious complaint has emerged regarding the operation of a diagnostic center that serves both humans and pets. During the day, it conducts examinations for people, while at night, it accepts animals through a different entrance. A dog owner reported being asked to pay 410 euros in cash for an MRI for his pet. Questions are also raised about the payment method for services provided to animals. So far, there has been no official statement from the Ministry of Health.
The Cyprus Police handed over the investigative file regarding the alleged rape of former Paphos mayor Phaedon Phaedonos to the Legal Service. The fate of the case now rests with the Legal Service, which may either file a case, archive the file due to lack of sufficient evidence, or request further investigation. So far, testimonies have been secured and will be assessed by officials from the Attorney General's office. It is also known that Phaedonos' wife has publicly stated she has no issues and requested the domestic violence investigation to be stopped. The alleged rape incident occurred in 2014.
The farmer in Troullos is desperate after his unit tested positive for foot-and-mouth disease, even though the animals show no symptoms. He is requesting a re-examination to confirm the results, arguing that there might have been a mistake. Veterinary Services state that even if the animals are asymptomatic, it is important to cull them to prevent the spread of the virus. Ms. Georgiades emphasizes that the tests are valid and that questioning the results is not appropriate. An epidemiological investigation is ongoing to understand how the virus entered the unit.
The Defense and Security Exhibition at Pavilion Hall in Nicosia showcases products from Cypriot companies in the defense sector. Exhibits include drones, anti-tank missiles, vessels, and special vehicles. President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, emphasized the role of the Cypriot defense industry as a strategic pillar of national security and European defense. Cyprus aims to transition from a consumer to a producer of defense solutions. The growth of the Cypriot defense industry is impressive, with significant participation in European programs.
The European University of Cyprus has submitted a request to establish a branch in Athens, named 'EUC Athens'. The new campus will cover 50 acres and will feature modern facilities including auditoriums, laboratories, and a library. Initially, it will operate four schools: Medicine, Life and Health Sciences, Business and Digital Technologies, and Law. The investment exceeds 50 million euros, aiming to create new jobs and boost the local economy. EUC Athens will partner with leading institutions for clinical education in Medicine and Health Sciences.
The Court of Appeals increased the prison sentence of the father convicted of sexually abusing a minor from 13 to 15 years. This decision came after an appeal by the Attorney General, who deemed the initial sentence insufficient. The abuse was reported five years after it occurred. The defendant was found guilty on six charges, including rape. The child was forced to leave their family and required psychological support due to the consequences of the father's actions.
Stephen Hawking's family has responded to the release of a photo of the late physicist with two women, linked to the Epstein case. The women were caregivers for Hawking, who suffered from motor neuron disease. The photo was taken in 2006 during a scientific symposium in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The family stated that any suggestion of improper conduct is incorrect. Additionally, Hawking's name has not been associated with any charges related to the case.
A bag containing human bones was found at the General Hospital of Karditsa, triggering a response from the authorities. The discovery was made Thursday morning, prompting immediate procedural actions. Police and a prosecutor are on their way to investigate the circumstances surrounding the finding. Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis has ordered the investigation into the matter. The situation is serious, and authorities are working quickly to clarify the issue.
George Koumas is set to respond to 25 charges regarding potential conflicts of interest on May 6th. The prosecution has not fully delivered the evidence, leading to a request for a postponement. His bail has been set at €100,000 to ensure his appearance in court. His lawyer, Christos Triantafyllidis, noted that there are procedural issues and hinted at the possibility that Koumas might not appear in court. The charges involve his roles in the Cyprus Football Association and his participation in companies providing broadcasting services.
An investigation is underway by the Ministry of Agriculture regarding priests of the Old Calendarists entering farms affected by foot-and-mouth disease. The priests accessed the facilities despite strict measures in place. The Minister is looking into the violation of biosafety checks. Public reactions label this action as irresponsible and dangerous. There is also concern about gatherings of worshippers in enclosed spaces.
The Audit Office confirmed the preferential treatment of private companies in the renewable energy sector, with mainly five large companies benefiting. Consumers did not see reductions in their electricity bills and faced additional costs due to the purchase of emissions rights. Despite the potential, the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) failed to penetrate the renewable energy market sufficiently. The Audit Office calls for the cancellation of licenses by the Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE) in favor of the EAC or other interested parties. The delay of the EAC allowed private photovoltaic projects to flourish.
After Donald Trump's State of the Union address, Muslim Congresswomen Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib publicly criticized him from the chamber. Trump retaliated with a harsh attack, telling them to go back where they came from and insulting their character. He also targeted actor Robert De Niro in his post, calling him low IQ and disturbed. The Congresswomen countered Trump's allegations, pointing out his government's responsibility for American deaths. The political tension continues to escalate between Trump and the two lawmakers, with public confrontations becoming increasingly intense.
According to a new plan by the Ministry of Interior, student residences will have an area of 12 square meters, including a bathroom and shower. The aim is to meet the increased housing needs of students in Cyprus. The regulations include smaller areas for common spaces and hopes for reduced rents. The new residences will offer different areas depending on the number of rooms while overall aiming to improve student accommodation. These changes address the needs of both public and private educational institutions.
Irene Charalambidou is set to officially announce her political collaboration with the party Alma on Monday. The connection between the two parties had been anticipated for a while, despite no official announcements being made before. Their collaboration will focus on anti-corruption policies, while allowing Irene to retain autonomy and freedom of expression. This announcement may affect the relationship between the leftist party AKEL and Alma. More details are expected to emerge after the official announcement.
The request to lift Marinos Sizopoulos' immunity was submitted by the Attorney General to the Supreme Court. This is due to an investigation by the Police regarding allegations against him concerning naturalization through the Cypriot Investment Program. The case is scheduled to be heard on March 3rd. Sizopoulos denies the charges and claims he is a victim of deception. After assessing the evidence, the Anti-Corruption Authority recommends his prosecution if wrongdoing is established.
Two bills concerning telephone surveillance are set to be presented in Parliament. The bill grants the Attorney General the power to allow phone tapping without court approval, raising concerns among lawmakers. The government aims for the quick passage of the bills to fight organized crime. A special mention is made of the new provision requiring written approval from the Attorney General. Lawmakers are seeking further safeguards for citizens' rights.
The government is studying the use of state aircraft to transport patients abroad. The President of the Republic is planning meetings with the Ministers of Defense and Transport to explore their possible involvement. This initiative arose after a recent incident that affected the timely transport of a patient for a lung transplant. The Social Alliance for the Citizen emphasized the need for an organized health care system, especially for the elderly and people with disabilities. Further discussions are expected concerning legislation related to people with disabilities.
A recent complaint highlights a dangerous situation in an apartment building in Germasogeia, where one side is 'in the air' due to a lack of a supporting wall. Residents are concerned for their safety, as the state poses a risk of injury or loss of life. The Independent Anti-Corruption Authority investigated the complaint, found no corruption, but emphasized the seriousness of the issue. The mayor of Amathus revealed that efforts are being made to resolve the problem. However, delays due to complications persist.
The Republic of Cyprus is launching a vaccination program to counteract the spread of foot-and-mouth disease in the Larnaca district. A total of 170,801 animals will be vaccinated, including cattle, sheep, and pigs. The plan also involves the culling of infected animals to prevent the virus's spread. Vaccinations will begin immediately, aiming to restore the status of 'disease-free country.' The situation remains critical as infected farms will be closed for disinfection.
The recent meeting between the President and labor unions focused on employment issues, such as increasing low pensions and stabilizing high pensions. Union leaders expressed satisfaction with some of the President's responses but warned that they would react if promises are not fulfilled. The need for a link between minimum wages and collective agreements was emphasized, despite employers' opposition. Additionally, it was agreed to discuss the hourly minimum wage. The dialogue is ongoing and conclusions are expected soon.