Cyprusbased companies Haleel Finance Ltd, Haleel Holdings Ltd, and Haleel Ltd were sanctioned by the US for their alleged ties to terrorist group alShabaab, part of a broader effort to disrupt terror funding and maintain regional security. The move highlights the global significance of targeting financial networks that sustain militant organizations, underscoring the commitment to combat terrorism and uphold peace.
Akel demands cheaper electricity in Cyprus by proposing a switch to natural gas, reducing VAT on electricity, taxing windfall profits, promoting renewable energy, and extending electricity subsidies for immediate relief. Stefanos Stefanou urges the government to take swift action to alleviate financial strain caused by escalating electricity costs and increase transparency in energy policy decisions.
Athena Michaelidou is leading a comprehensive educational reform for the next school year, focusing on creating a modern, inclusive system that develops diverse citizens with democratic values. Key strategies include overhauling secondary education assessment, implementing allday schools, enhancing vocational training, investing in technology, internationalizing higher education, and strengthening early childhood education and international collaboration.
Cyprus joins the global ‘Endomarch’ movement to raise awareness about endometriosis, a condition impacting one in 10 women worldwide. Led by Dr. Andreas Stavroulis, the local chapter of Endomarch Cyprus advocates for better treatment and support services, emphasizing the importance of education and community engagement in the fight against this debilitating condition.
A scandal involving Northern MP Emrah Yesilirmak and a fake diploma from Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University (KSTU) has raised concerns about legislative immunity and education accreditation. Amidst the fallout, questions loom over the integrity of the northern education system and the implications for transparency and accountability in the higher education sector.
The ordination of Bruno Varriano in Nicosia is a historic moment for the Catholic Church in Cyprus, marking the first of its kind since the Ottoman era and signaling a new chapter of ecumenical unity in the region. This event symbolizes hope and reaffirms the mission of the Church in Cyprus amidst its diverse cultural and historical landscape.
In January 2024, Cyprus witnessed a remarkable decrease in its trade deficit to €566.5 million, a significant drop from the €1.419.9 million recorded in January 2023. This positive change was primarily fueled by a notable 51.1% decline in imports, hinting at a promising shift towards economic stability for the country.
Maria Holguin is on a mission in Cyprus, meeting with leaders to restart dialogue and find a solution to the Cyprus issue. Her focus on sovereign equality and adherence to the UN framework sets the stage for potential progress in the longstanding conflict.
In a recent announcement by the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare, financial aid has been offered to singleparent families with an income cap of 19,500 euros and a maximum deposit of 10,000 euros, providing 100 euros for the first child and 50 euros for each subsequent child, up to 250 euros. This move aims to ease the financial burden on singleparent households and offer muchneeded support to those in need.
Cyprus is actively supporting the Capital Markets Union, aiming to create a seamless panEuropean capital market for businesses and international investments. The country also maintains a commitment to fiscal discipline and structural reforms, advocating for coordination among Eurozone member states for economic stability and prosperity.
