The Cyprus Education Ministry, led by Minister Athena Michaelidou, is prioritizing the modernization of state schools, including the installation of air conditioners, Greek language courses for non-speakers, and reducing school violence. The ministry is also addressing staffing issues by reducing contract teachers and increasing permanent positions. Special education is highlighted as a significant area needing legislative improvement and better support for students with special needs. The ministry aims to create a student-centered education system to cultivate students' abilities and skills.

Cybc held a ceremony to honour outgoing National Guard chief Lieutenant General Demokritos Zervakis, attended by Defence Minister Michalis Giorgallas and Cybc chairman Giorgos Kentas. Zervakis was praised for his dedication and contributions to the National Guard. He expressed gratitude towards Cybc and presented a token of appreciation. The event included symbolic gifts and acknowledgments of Zervakis' service.

BirdLife Cyprus responded to the Animal Party's criticism regarding the Griffon vulture conservation project, defending their efforts and highlighting the challenges and progress made. The Animal Party questioned the project's funding and effectiveness, citing repeated failures and demanding accountability. BirdLife emphasized the importance of continued efforts and cooperation to prevent the species' extinction, noting the significant role of poison bait detection and recent legal actions against illegal poisoning.

Photographs of a mobile traffic camera van parked in a disabled parking spot have sparked significant outrage on social media, with users condemning the apparent double standards. The image, widely shared on Instagram and Facebook, has led to calls for complaints to be filed with the police. Social media users expressed their frustration and disbelief, with some recounting similar incidents involving the traffic camera vans.

The US State Department, through spokesman Matthew Miller, reaffirmed its support for a bizonal, bicommunal federation solution for Cyprus, opposing Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's partition proposal. Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar dismissed reports of Turkey returning to negotiations, maintaining support for a two-state solution. The US views Cyprus as a key partner in promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Two individuals were hospitalised with heat stroke at Limassol General Hospital, with one in the ICU. Four out of six previously hospitalised patients were discharged. The Met office issued a yellow warning for high temperatures, and the risk of forest fires remains high.

In Cyprus, a controversial debate on foreclosures led to the defeat of two bills in the House of Representatives, which could have impacted the financial system and the country's international standing. The main bill, proposed by Akel, aimed to allow borrowers to halt foreclosure proceedings due to unfair bank practices but was voted down with a 27-27 tie. The Democratic Rally and other parties expressed relief at avoiding potential financial catastrophe, while Akel criticized the outcome and urged continued efforts to protect borrowers. Marios Clerides, an economist and former Cysec chairman, suggested that improving court procedures could negate the need for such bills by providing swift justice for borrowers.

The Ukrainian-Cypriot Friendship Community, led by Tetyana Ioannou, has called on Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and authorities to take action against pro-Russia demonstrations on the island. In an open letter, Ioannou expressed gratitude for Cyprus' support of Ukraine but urged for measures to curtail pro-Russia rallies, arguing that such actions prolong the war and damage Cyprus' reputation as a European Union member. The community also suggested criminal proceedings against organizers of pro-Russia events.

Three gas turbines for Power Energy Cyprus, the first private conventional power plant, have arrived and are being installed. The €48 million turbines from Siemens will use modern combined cycle technology and natural gas, aiming to produce 25-30% of Cyprus' electricity needs and address the energy crisis. The €200 million investment, funded by Cyfield and Cypriot banks, is expected to reduce electricity costs and support industries, companies, and households. The project, set to complete by summer 2024, will connect to the national grid and operate for 30 years.

Harris Georgiades, chairman of the House foreign affairs committee, expressed the potential for Turkey to join a network of friendship in the Eastern Mediterranean, though he noted that this prospect is currently distant. Discussions with a German parliamentary delegation focused on the Cyprus problem and Turkey's role, emphasizing the need for Turkey to respect international law and contribute to peaceful resolutions. The meeting also highlighted the strengthening of German-Cypriot relations, with both sides agreeing on the importance of cooperation in addressing European challenges. Derya Türk-Nachbaur, president of the Friendship Group, praised Cyprus for its assistance in evacuating German citizens from Sudan and emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation in areas like economy, trade, and climate protection.

The antiquities department has installed four new digital information points at Cyprus' mediaeval castles in Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and Kolossi. These infokiosks, part of the European Programme DigiArc, aim to inform visitors about the history and architecture of the castles and observation towers on Cyprus' southern coast. The project, a collaboration between the Department of Antiquities and the Cyprus University of Technology, includes a digital book with rich photographic material, 3D models, and animations. Future plans include a digital tour of Kolossi castle.

Military personnel from the UK and Cyprus concluded a joint air defence exercise named Aphrodite Shield, aimed at training National Guard air defence personnel in air force deployment tactics and increasing operational readiness. The exercise, part of the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme, involved the air defence units of Cyprus' air force command and the RAF, promoting interoperability and cooperation. The National Guard's air defence and self-protection systems were tested against modern fighter aircraft in realistic conditions.

Cyprus must expedite its national Recovery and Resilience Plan and reduce fossil fuel dependence, focusing on electricity interconnections, as per the European Commission's 2023 country report. The report outlines socio-economic challenges and provides recommendations to implement the Green Deal Industrial Plan. Key suggestions include ending current energy support measures by 2023, maintaining a sound fiscal position, speeding up the recovery plan, improving governance of state-owned companies, and diversifying energy supply to reduce fossil fuel dependence.

The independent anti-corruption authority in Cyprus has decided to prioritize the investigation of complaints from the audit office concerning two significant institutions. This decision follows a public dispute between the Attorney-General's office and the audit service, with accusations of character assassination and corruption. Deputy Attorney-General Savvas Angelides and Attorney-General Giorgos Savvides have both criticized the audit service for its actions. The government has called for a reduction in public debate, with potential separate meetings between the President and the involved parties.

In 2022, around a third of tourist nights in Cyprus and the EU were recorded in July and August, with August slightly leading in Cyprus. Eurostat data highlights that tourists tend to stay longer during these peak months, increasing demand for accommodations. This seasonality trend is most pronounced in Croatia, Bulgaria, and Greece, and least in Malta, Finland, and Germany. The impact of seasonality on tourism includes overcrowding and resource strain during peak times and underused facilities and job instability during quieter periods.

The Cyprus fisheries department has issued a reminder to the public about the importance of protecting the island's sea turtles, specifically the loggerhead and green turtles. The department emphasized that harassment of these species, including feeding them to take photos or swimming close to them, is prohibited and punishable by law. Violators could face up to three years in prison or fines up to €17,000. The department urged people to allow the turtles to decide their proximity and to move away if signs of disturbance are observed.

The 14th Cyprus Wine Competition in Limassol highlights the island's wines, with support from the Ministry of Agriculture and various local and international organizations. Agriculture Minister Petros Xenofontos emphasized the benefits of such events for promoting quality Cypriot wine. The competition features 29 wineries and 163 wine samples, judged by a seven-member jury of international oenologists. Limassol Mayor Nikos Nicolaides praised the city's role in viticulture, and jury president Antonio Moráta expressed positive impressions of Cypriot wine. The event concludes with an award ceremony and gala dinner.

The Cyprus Education Ministry has decided to abolish mid-term exams in secondary schools, opting instead for a central examination at the end of the academic year, which will account for 30% of the students' grades. The new evaluation system, presented by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou, emphasizes multiple forms of student assessment, including projects and quizzes, to better reflect students' abilities. The proposal, which has received positive feedback from teachers' unions and parents' associations, aims to save educational time and provide a fairer assessment method. It will be submitted to the Council of Ministers and Parliament for approval before the new school year.

The Nicola David-Pinedo Cyprus Cancer Research Institute (CCRI) was inaugurated, marking a significant milestone for Cyprus in cancer research and treatment. The institute, a collaboration between the University of Cyprus, the Karaiskakio Foundation, and the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre, aims to establish a National Cancer Research Network and foster innovation in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. The event was attended by prominent figures, including President Nikos Christodoulides and EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakidou, who emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and prevention. The institute is named in memory of Nicola David-Pinedo, and its establishment is seen as a legacy to promote continuous research and innovative approaches to cancer treatment.

Cypriots and Greeks have a strong presence in the Sunday Times Rich List of UK residents, with notable names including Alkis David, the Leventis family, the Lazari family, John Christodoulou, and Telis Mistakidis. The list features 171 billionaires, with a total net worth of £684 billion, marking a 4.5% increase from the previous year. Indian-born Gopi Hinduja tops the list with a fortune of £35 billion.

Two women were hospitalized for smoke inhalation following a house fire in Tersefanou, Larnaca district, caused by a lit candle. The fire destroyed a bedroom and affected other parts of the house. Authorities, including the Larnaca police and Fire Brigade, responded promptly, and the cause was confirmed as a candle left burning in the bedroom.

An incident involving a school bus losing a wheel on the motorway has prompted Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis to call for an overhaul of school bus safety criteria. A report on the accident in Limassol is expected by Monday, with investigations being conducted by the Department of Electrical and Mechanical Services and the Department of Road Transport. The minister highlighted the seriousness of the issue, noting a similar incident six months prior. The bus, which was 14 years old, had passed a roadworthiness test in February and had its tyres changed three days before the incident. Discussions with the education minister are planned to update the selection and inspection process for school buses.

Long-term strategies for road development in Paphos were discussed between Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis and local council representatives. Key issues included the unification of archaeological sites, road maintenance, and the relocation of a public works warehouse. The government previously signed a contract with Greek company Intrakat for an €86.8m project to construct a new road between Ayia Marinouda and Stroumpi, aimed at improving connectivity and economic growth in northern Paphos. The project includes significant infrastructure such as tunnels, bridges, and additional lanes to ease traffic.

Tourism revenue in Cyprus for February increased by 42.9% compared to the previous year, reaching €56.6 million. For January-February 2023, revenue rose by 50.7% to €102.2 million. Despite a 13.6% decrease in average spend per person, the average daily spend by visitors increased. The UK, Israel, and Greece were the top three markets, with varying daily expenditures. Total arrivals in February were 119,081, up from 71,921 the previous year, with a shorter average stay of 7.1 days.

Efforts to modernize and improve Cyprus' judicial system are underway, with new courts being established and existing structures strengthened. Justice Minister Anna Procopiou announced the creation of the Supreme Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court, both with additional third-instance jurisdiction, and the Court of Appeal with specialized departments for quick hearings. The Commercial Court and Admiralty Court will handle large commercial and maritime cases, respectively. Digitalization of courts and new civil procedure regulations are expected to reduce backlog and improve efficiency. The Ministry of Justice is also working on bills to strengthen first instance jurisdiction and alternative dispute resolution methods.

Seven Kurds and three Cypriots initiated a hunger strike near the Supreme Court in Nicosia to demand the release of Kenan Ayaz, who is detained in Central Prisons for alleged involvement in a terrorist attack. Ayaz, arrested on a German warrant, is on an indefinite hunger strike to avoid extradition to Germany, fearing a subsequent transfer to Turkey where he faces a 36-year prison sentence. The Kurdistan Cultural Centre 'Theophilos' and its representative, Lambros Kallenos, argue that Ayaz's activities do not constitute terrorism and criticize Cyprus' cooperation in the extradition process.

President Nicos Christodoulides emphasized the importance of youth empowerment during a Commonwealth event in London, highlighting the role of young people as catalysts for change. He supported the 2023 Commonwealth Declaration, focusing on youth as a valuable investment for the future. Christodoulides advocated for evaluating and potentially extending youth programs, stressing the need for tools and policies to empower young people. He also engaged in discussions with other leaders, including British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who expressed gratitude for Cyprus' assistance in evacuating citizens from Sudan.

Seven Kurds and three Cypriots initiated a hunger strike near the Supreme Court in Nicosia to demand the release of Kenan Ayaz, who is detained in Central Prisons awaiting extradition to Germany. Ayaz, arrested on a German warrant, began his own hunger strike, opposing his extradition due to fears of a harsh sentence in Turkey. The Kurdistan Cultural Centre 'Theophilos' and its representative, Lambros Kallenos, argue that Ayaz's activities do not constitute terrorism and criticize the cooperation between Cyprus and Germany in this extradition.

The health ministry of Cyprus announced the lifting of mandatory self-isolation for Covid-19 cases, recommending other measures such as informing personal doctors, self-isolation for at least five days, and wearing high-protection masks. Close contacts are advised to avoid vulnerable individuals and undergo testing at their own expense. Special protocols remain for positive cases in specific settings, and mask mandates continue in certain areas. PCR and rapid test prices are regulated.

The Cypriot government, led by President Nikos Christodoulides, is committed to protecting Cyprus' reputation as a reliable business and investment hub. At the 'Invest Cyprus' event, Christodoulides outlined a strategic plan for economic development until 2035, focusing on innovation, investment in key sectors, and regulatory improvements. Significant steps have been taken to enhance anti-money laundering regulations and reduce high-risk deposits. The government is also prioritizing tax reform, green growth, and digital transformation, supported by EU funds. Cyprus aims to attract foreign direct investment across various sectors, including finance, shipping, and energy, while strengthening international relations and promoting energy independence in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Employees at the Department of Information Technology Services (DITS) have blamed server damage at the finance ministry and a cyberattack on the land registry on understaffing. They called for necessary staffing measures to prevent further damage and cyberattacks. The government services experienced significant outages due to a water leak and a cyberattack, prompting an investigation and an apology from the deputy ministry for research, innovation, and digital policy. The IT staff highlighted the chronic understaffing issues and the risks posed to government systems and services.

A 61-year-old man is critically injured following a head-on car collision on the Paphos-Polis Chrysochous road near Stroumbi. The accident involved a vehicle driven by the man and another carrying a 59-year-old woman and a 35-year-old woman. All were taken to Paphos General Hospital, with the 61-year-old set to be transferred to Nicosia General Hospital for further treatment. The 59-year-old was discharged after first aid, while the 35-year-old remains under medical examination. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

A bill approved by the previous government to regulate stray dogs is criticized for having too many gaps, according to Diko MP Chrysanthos Savvides. During a House environment committee meeting, it was highlighted that the bill creates more problems than it solves. The discussion also addressed the issue of stray dog packs in Strovolos, with complaints from parents about safety concerns. Savvides emphasized the need for municipalities to have the means to control strays, citing the lack of anaesthetic dart guns in Cyprus as an example.

Health Minister Popi Kanari emphasized the critical role of vaccination in public health, especially highlighted by the Covid-19 pandemic. During European Vaccination Week, she urged the public to stay updated with vaccines, aligning with the theme 'The Big Catch-Up' to address missed vaccinations due to the pandemic. Christina Yiannaki, permanent secretary of the health ministry, noted significant vaccination efforts in Cyprus and Europe, stressing the need to recover lost progress in routine vaccinations for children. Both officials underscored the importance of timely and equal access to vaccines as a public health priority.

Deputy Minister for Culture Michalis Hatzigiannis addressed a recent mistake where his ministry's social media posted about his attendance at Diko leader Nicolas Papadopoulos' birthday party. Hatzigiannis clarified that the post was an error and was promptly removed. He emphasized that personal events are unrelated to ministry activities. Additionally, Hatzigiannis and Edek leader Marinos Sizopoulos discussed ongoing efforts to promote Cyprus' cultural heritage amidst challenges posed by Turkey.

President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized the need for mutual respect and learning from each other's histories to resolve the Cyprus problem, following criticism from Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar. Christodoulides stressed the importance of substantive diplomatic moves over daily statements and highlighted efforts to break the deadlock through international diplomatic leverage, particularly after the upcoming Turkish elections. He reiterated that respecting each other's history, as practiced in European countries, is crucial for progress.

Larnaca will introduce a new environmentally friendly parking area in its main shopping district by December 2023. The project, costing approximately €458,000 plus VAT, aims to alleviate the city's parking issues and enhance the urban commercial center. The construction, managed by Kypris and Geranis Constructions Ltd, includes additional amenities such as public toilets, a bicycle room, and green spaces. The initiative is a collaborative effort between Larnaca municipality, the guardian of Turkish Cypriot properties, and local property owners.

The Health Minister of Cyprus, Popi Kanari, and the Union of Cypriot Pensioners (Ekysy) discussed the creation of rehabilitation centres and geriatric clinics for pensioners. Ekysy raised concerns about the costs of medicines, the need for state rehabilitation centres, and the inadequacies of the current health system (Gesy). The minister agreed with the pensioners' demands, emphasizing the ministry's aim to address their issues. The article also highlights past protests by pensioners against government indifference and the financial burdens they face due to inflation and healthcare costs.

Cyprus faces urgent calls for a national strategy to provide affordable, quality, and specialized care for its growing elderly population amid numerous complaints about patient care in public hospitals. Stakeholders, including the Cyprus Federation of Patients’ Associations and the Cyprus Third Age Observatory, highlighted issues such as elderly patients being left naked or tied to beds, inadequate responses to complaints, and fears of vindictive behavior from health workers. The need for better training and evaluation of healthcare professionals was emphasized, along with the necessity for immediate policy implementation to address the increasing needs of the elderly.

The Cyprus Cabinet has appointed Andreas Gregoriou, the agriculture ministry’s Permanent Secretary, as the coordinator for forest fire prevention and response ahead of the summer season. Government Spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis emphasized the need for intensified efforts by state services and local authorities to prevent fires and ensure preparedness. Gregoriou will oversee the national firefighting system, including mobilizing air assets and commanding forces during firefighting operations. The European Civil Protection Mechanism may be activated if necessary. A receiving committee has been appointed to check and receive the required aircraft for these operations.

The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) announced a grant scheme to develop the island's bee economy, inviting individuals, SMEs, and NGOs to apply for grants ranging from €2,000 to €5,000. The initiative, part of the EU co-funded MedBEESinessHubs project, aims to support the production and processing of bee-derived products and services, with a focus on young entrepreneurs. The project connects clusters in Cyprus, Egypt, Italy, Lebanon, and Palestine, promoting a Mediterranean BEE-economy and bee-tourism.

Education Minister Prodromos Prodromou stated that President Nicos Anastasiades might refer the pre-primary education law to the Supreme Court after the House of Representatives rejected objections to the law. The law restricts children aged four-and-a-half to six from attending private pre-primary schools, which Anastasiades argues limits parental choice and complicates the implementation of free pre-primary education, potentially jeopardizing €12 million from the Recovery and Resilience Plan.

A 33-year-old man was detained by Paphos police for illegal possession of cannabis and copper wiring. The arrest occurred after police found the man in a vehicle without registration plates, which contained cannabis, seven kilograms of copper wiring, and various tools. The man was arrested for illegal possession of drugs, property, and burglary tools. Investigations are ongoing.

A fatal car accident on the Akrotiri – Kolossi road near Trachoni resulted in the death of 25-year-old Marileni Constantinidou and the hospitalization of her three-month-old baby girl. The accident occurred when the driver, Constantinidou's 22-year-old partner, lost control of the vehicle and hit a tree. The baby girl was taken to Makarios hospital for observation, while the driver received minor injuries. British base police are investigating the incident, including whether the driver was intoxicated.

Paphos police conducted a New Year operation targeting traffic offences, resulting in 34 bookings, primarily for driving under the influence of alcohol. One notable incident involved a 27-year-old driver who had modified his vehicle to resemble a police patrol car. He was charged and released pending a future summons. The operation highlights the police's efforts to ensure road safety during the holiday period.

Cyprus and India are exploring opportunities to enhance their economic ties, with a focus on investment and strengthening India's relations with the European Union. Foreign Ministers Ioannis Kasoulides and Subrahmyan Jainshankar discussed the potential for cooperation in various sectors, including renewable energy, financial services, and shipping, at the Cyprus-India Business and Economic Forum in Limassol. Cyprus is a significant foreign direct investor in India, and both countries are looking to recover and increase trade post-COVID-19. The forum also addressed the importance of treating seafarers as essential workers and the greening of the shipping sector.

An 18-year-old resident of a village in the Nicosia district was arrested by police for illegal possession of drugs with the intent to supply. The YKAN drug squad, acting on a court warrant, found and seized 130 grams of cannabis, five ecstasy pills, and €6,930 at the suspect's home. The individual was taken into custody to assist with ongoing investigations.

Construction work will occur on Kyriakou Matsi Avenue in Larnaca on Friday, with road closures from 5am to 7am. Additionally, from January 2 to 13, the Municipality of Aradippou will conduct cleaning and pruning works on central islands of several roads in the Larnaca district, causing partial lane closures from 8am to 1pm daily, excluding weekends and holidays.

The health ministry in Cyprus announced the formation of a special scientific committee to study and evaluate long Covid in the population. The committee aims to raise public awareness and design appropriate support for patients, collaborating with stakeholders such as the Medical Association, the State Health Services Organisation, and the Cyprus Federation of Patients’ Associations. Dr Constantinos Fellas from the University of Nicosia has been appointed as the coordinator and president of the committee.

The 'Taksim' stadium in Nicosia, under UN control, will reopen next month for Cetinkaya football team training and preparation matches. The stadium, closed since 2014, was returned to Cetinkaya by the UN last October. The decision followed a contentious agreement between Unficyp, the Turkish Cypriot side, and Turkey, which led to a stern response from Cyprus' Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides. He criticized Unficyp's handling of the situation, urging a halt to works and consultation with the government. Unficyp maintains that the stadium's status remains unchanged, with strict regulations for its use.

Members of the Holy Synod are set to vote for a new archbishop, with the main contenders being Limassol Bishop Athanasios, Bishop of Paphos Georgios, and Bishop of Tamassos Isaias. Athanasios, who led the public vote, emphasized respect for the people's choice but urged against protests if not elected. Georgios, expected to win, downplayed private meetings for support and highlighted the synod's charter. Vasilios plans to meet each candidate individually, while Neophytos remains non-committal. The election is anticipated to favor Georgios, with significant support from other bishops.

House Speaker Annita Demetriou criticized the quality of healthcare at Larnaca General Hospital, highlighting inadequate facilities and staffing, particularly in the emergency department. During her visit, she emphasized the need for immediate and effective intervention to resolve these issues. Demetriou noted that the new wing of the hospital is not being used properly and that the old part requires maintenance. She assured that the House of Representatives will continue to monitor the situation and intervene where possible.

A poetry collection in the Cypriot dialect has been published in braille for the first time, thanks to an initiative by author Cosmas Economou and support from the Pancyprian organisation of the blind. The project received financial backing from Christos Tsissios, CEO of Thimonia bakeries. Ten copies have been printed and distributed, with plans for more copies to be made available to libraries in Cyprus and Greece and the general public.

The state secondary school teachers' union Oelmek has expressed frustration over the education ministry's failure to implement agreed decisions, particularly regarding the syllabus for upcoming exams. The union demands an immediate meeting with the education minister to address these issues and has threatened to take action if the situation is not resolved, citing increased stress and anxiety among students and teachers.

Trade unions in Cyprus have issued a two-week ultimatum to the government and employers to fully reinstate the cost of living allowance (CoLA), threatening industrial action if their demands are not met. The unions, including SEK, PEO, and others, plan to hold a pan-union congress to evaluate the situation and potentially take measures. The unions demand a new deal to raise CoLA to 100% of the Consumer Price Index, while employers want the allowance scrapped. Government spokesman Marios Pelekanos criticized opposition party Akel for its past actions regarding workers' rights.

Energy Minister Natasa Pilides announced the discovery of natural gas in the 'Zeus-1' target within Cyprus' exclusive economic zone, highlighting the potential for exploitation despite the current lack of necessary infrastructure. The prevailing plan involves transferring Cypriot natural gas to Egyptian terminals, with confirmatory drilling in the Aphrodite block scheduled for early next year. Pilides emphasized the goal of utilizing Cypriot natural gas by 2027, particularly from the Aphrodite field. Italian energy company ENI, which has been operating in Cyprus since 2013, made the discovery, with Chevron also exploring export options via Egypt.

In the past seven months, 4,000 irregular migrants have been deported from Northern Cyprus, as stated by Ziya Ozturkler, the 'minister of the interior'. The administration aims to implement a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal residents and is introducing an automated control system to manage unregistered workers and residents. The article also highlights the demographic changes in Northern Cyprus, warning of potential social problems and urging against political polarization.

Cyprus will introduce a 15% minimum corporate tax rate on multinational and domestic groups or companies with an annual turnover of at least €750 million, following a unanimous EU agreement on the global minimum tax rate. The Finance Ministry will prepare the necessary legislation and explore ways to mitigate any adverse impact on the Cypriot economy. EU member states are required to transpose the directive into national law by December 2023.

Limassol port faces turmoil due to significant tariff increases imposed by its managing companies, affecting exports, transit trade, and ultimately consumers. The privatization contract allows annual tariff reviews, but the formula used is criticized for not considering all necessary indicators. DP World and P&O have already announced substantial increases, with Eurogate expected to follow. The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and the Association of Cyprus Maritime Agents have reacted strongly, seeking government intervention. Opposition party Akel criticizes the privatization, blaming the Disy government for negative economic impacts.

The Social Insurance Service of Cyprus announced changes to social insurance contributions effective from January 2023. The insurable earnings ceiling will increase to €1,155 per week and €5,005 per month. Self-employed workers' imputed incomes for social insurance contributions will rise by 3.37% from January 2, 2023. The rate of increase in pensions for January 2023 will be offset against the indexation increase granted in July 2022, resulting in zero growth for both basic and supplementary parts of pensions.

Teachers in the Famagusta area received training on bomb-threat protocols from the police in Paralimni. Deputy chief constable Odysseas Papadopoulos presented the protocols outlined by the education ministry, focusing on risk assessment and initial actions for school management in cooperation with the police. The training session was attended by around 80 teachers.

The EU Council has issued conclusions that are highly critical of Turkey, urging Ankara to cease actions that could upgrade the status of the breakaway state in northern Cyprus. The conclusions emphasize Turkey's lack of progress in its EU accession process and call for compliance with UN Security Council resolutions. The EU also expressed disappointment with Turkey's non-alignment with EU measures against Russia and its conflicting policies. The Republic of Cyprus welcomed these conclusions, highlighting their significance in addressing Turkey's provocative actions.

Cyprus' Justice Minister Stefi Drakou emphasized the need for Cyprus to gain access to the Schengen Information Exchange System in 2023 to enhance public security and border controls. During the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, ministers discussed various issues, including the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Schengen area security, the increase in irregular entries into Europe, and the accession of Bulgaria, Romania, and Croatia to the Schengen area. Drakou highlighted the migration challenges Cyprus faces due to Turkey's actions and discussed measures against anti-Semitism and the protection of freedom of expression. Croatia's accession to the Schengen area was approved, while Bulgaria and Romania's bids were blocked.

Parking at the old Nicosia hospital will end on December 12 as construction of the new Cyprus Museum begins. The Department of Public Works will close all accesses to the site, and vehicle owners must remove their cars by midnight on December 11.

The Akamas Landowners Association expects the auditor-general to request evidence of what they claim is a scandal in environmental studies. They express disappointment in the AG's statements and accuse him of misleading citizens regarding court decisions on compensation. The association has delivered legal opinions to the President and Interior Minister and awaits the AG's intervention. They warn of making public studies and maps from 2013 and 2014 and filing a massive lawsuit against the state for compensation if their complaints are not examined.

President Nicos Anastasiades emphasized the need for Mediterranean states to cooperate for regional peace and stability, highlighting Cyprus as a potential alternative energy corridor for the EU. The Euro-Mediterranean Summit in Spain saw leaders agree on measures to ensure energy liquidity and price stability, promote renewable energy, and address the impacts of the pandemic and the Ukraine war. The summit condemned Turkish provocations in Cyprus and stressed the importance of EU solidarity and strategic autonomy. The leaders also discussed migration policies, emphasizing balanced responsibility and cooperation with Mediterranean partners.

Energy Minister Natasa Pilides criticized the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) workers' measures as politically motivated and extortionate, warning of potential power cuts during peak usage periods. The unions' actions stem from issues like understaffing and restrictions on renewable energy projects. Pilides emphasized that the government had advised the EAC to optimize processes and that the new pension scheme had already been approved by parliament. The industrial action, set to begin on December 14, could significantly impact electricity supply, especially during the holiday season.

The Cyprus Planetarium in Tamasos is set to open in mid-2023, offering a state-of-the-art facility with a twenty-metre dome and advanced telescopes. It aims to enhance astrotourism and provide educational opportunities for locals and tourists. The project, supported by the Interstellar Institute, promises to create new jobs and foster collaboration with educational institutions in Cyprus. The planetarium will feature 180 seats and ten projectors, ensuring a diverse entertainment and scientific experience.

The Cyprus Defence Minister, Charalambos Petrides, emphasized the importance of enhancing the National Guard's operational and deterrence capabilities amid regional tensions, particularly with Turkey. The defense budget has reached its highest level in 20 years, reflecting a commitment to upgrading military capabilities. Collaborative efforts with the Greek Defence Ministry and partnerships with regional and European countries aim to bolster security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, aligning with the EU's interests.

Constantinos Herodotou, the governor of Cyprus' central bank, emphasized the necessity for prudent provisioning policies for bad loans amid negative macroeconomic developments. Speaking at the 10th Banking Forum and Fintech Expo, he highlighted the challenges faced by the banking sector, including potential worsening of asset quality and increased loan impairments. Herodotou stressed the importance of quick and sustainable restructurings and the role of technology in maintaining competitiveness and addressing structural weaknesses in the banking sector.

The health ministry issued advice on Streptococcus type A following a rise in cases in the UK and France, emphasizing that no similar incidents have been identified in Cyprus. The ministry explained the nature of the infection, symptoms, and the importance of hygiene and personal protection measures to prevent its spread. They are monitoring the situation closely for early detection of cases in Cyprus.

Larnaca’s municipal council announced free parking for motorists at several hotspots in the coastal town from December 12 to January 8, covering municipal parking areas, the shopping center, Tasos Mitsopoulos Avenue, and the Makenzie area. Authorities warned that illegal parking will still be reported.

A pedestrian in Hanoi, Vietnam, frustrated by rush-hour traffic, climbed power lines to cross a busy road. The man's daring act, likened to Spiderman, was recorded by a passerby and sparked mixed reactions from locals and social media users, with some praising his agility and others expressing concern for his safety.