Seminar on AI at Limassol International Book Fair 23/11/24
In the context of the 2024 Limassol International Book Fair which we supported, our office also organised a seminar at the fair on the subject of "Content and Artificial Intelligence: How is text production and writing changing through the use of AI? How is the European Union active in ensuring rules in the use of AI? Trends and prospects."
The speakers included Anna Danti, Head of Communications at the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus and Michalis Kalamaras, Co-editor of LIBF Conference, Thinking Publishing Consultant. The session was moderated by Vassili Danilof, Communication Officer at the Representation in Cyprus.
Economist Summit 2024 in Nicosia, 22/11/24
"Migration is not a problem to be solved, it has always existed. It is rather a challenge to be managed and needs a comprehensive approach. It's also crucial to see what we can do to avert refugee crises... European leaders have repeatedly called for restraint and the end of hostilities [in Gaza] in full accordance with international law, while also expressing readiness to help deescalate the situation and continue to provide humanitarian aid." Our Acting Head Nikolaos Isaris speaking at this year's Economist Annual Cyprus Summit in Nicosia.
Supporting the Larnaka International Marathon 17/11/24
The Representation proudly supported this year's 7th Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon, which took place on Sunday 17 November 2024 in Larnaca. Our Acting Head Nikos Isaris presented prizes to the winners after the main marathon and members of our team also participated in the 5km race. Despite the rain, the atmosphere was fantastic - from the athletes, participants and volunteers, everyone contributed to a celebration of determination, athleticism and community spirit.
3rd Annual Recovery and Resilience Facility event 15/10/24
Our Acting Head Nikos Isaris gave a speech at the 3rd Annual Recovery and Resilience event in Nicosia on 15 October 2024. In his speech he said “The RRF is the European response to the challenges of today and tomorrow, a pathway to achieving our collective goals and ensuring the resilience of our economies to future challenges. The European Commission remains a steadfast supporter of the efforts of Cyprus in achieving a successful green and digital transition.”
EU Code Week 2024 Bicommunal event 12/10/24
Organised with the support of the European Commission, EU Code Week is a volunteer-run initiative working to promote digital literacy, and help kids and adults bring their ideas to life through coding. This year we supported the Bicommunal Teacher Training 'Artificial Intelligence Coding and Robotics' at the Home for Cooperation on 12 October.
Face Forward….into my home” exhibition 10/10/24
On 10 October 2024, the exhibition "Face Forward... into my home," featuring photographic portraits and stories of migrants, opened in Nicosia at the Municipal Theatre. The event was organised by Nicosia 2030, in collaboration with refugees and migrants who have rebuilt their lives in Cyprus and the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus is a proud supporter of the exhibition. It will be open until 31 December, Monday to Friday 10:00-13:00, and one hour before every performance at the Municipal Theatre.
Study visit from the University of Osnabrück hosted at EU House 8/10/24
We were happy to welcome students of the Masters Program on Conflict Studies and Peacebuilding from the University of Osnabrück during their study visit to Cyprus. We delivered a lecture during their seminar on “Political Violence and Peacebuilding" in Cyprus.
European Researchers’ Night: 27/9/24
The annual celebration of science, research and innovation took place at 27 September in Nicosia’s State Fair premises. There were over 3,000 visitors over the course of the day, where science lovers had the opportunity to explore robotics, technology, science experiments and more. Our Acting Head Nikos Isaris also distributed prizes to the winners of the competitions ‘Science Unfold’, ‘eBook’ and ‘Design Thinking Challenge’ as well as the prize for the best exhibitor.
Mr Isaris at panel of Climate Crisis conference 27/9/24
On the 27 September 2024, our Acting Head Nikos Isaris spoke at the 'Climate Crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East' conference organised by The Cyprus Institute and the Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters and Arts.
Mr Isaris spoke on the climate diplomacy panel, focusing on the EU's green transition policies and climate diplomacy in global fora.
Unveiling of mural celebrating the 20 years of accession to the EU 25/9/24
On Wednesday 25 September 2024, a special mural was unveiled in old Nicosia, celebrating European unity. The mural was created by artist twenty three to mark the 20th anniversary of the largest enlargement of the EU. The Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus is a proud supporter of this project initiated by the Embassy of Poland in Cyprus, alongside the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassies of fellow EU Member States also celebrating 20 years of EU accession this year!
Visit of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung scholars to EU House 25/9/24
It was our great pleasure to welcome a group of over 20 Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung scholars to EU House in Nicosia, for a productive discussion on the role of the EU in the region.
United for Peace EU- Youth Leadership Forum 21-22 September 2024
Our Head of Communications Anna Danti spoke at this special forum organised by United World Colleges in collaboration with the European Commission. In her presentation Ms Danti outlined the opportunities available to youth through EU programmes.
EU Beach Cleanup in Larnaca 20/9/24
Every year, the EU, in partnership with the UN and the Smurfs, organises an ocean-activism and awareness-raising campaign featuring beach, river banks and various clean-up events across the world. This year we, the European Commission in Cyprus, partnered with EUROPE DIRECT Larnaca and the Department of Environmental Management of Larnaka Municipality to organise a beach cleanup at Kastella Beach, Larnaca. Early in the morning of 20 September 2024, 35 students from St Lazarus Primary School and their teachers collected almost 50kg of rubbish from the beach in 12 bags. Polystyrene, straws, plastic cups, cigarette butts and plastic bags, as well as fishing equipment was collected and disposed of safely. We thank them for their enthusiasm, energy and efforts to achieve this fantastic result!
Bicommunal CSOs from Cyprus visit Brussels 3/9/24
We organised a bicommunal Cypriot civil society info visit to the European Commission headquarters in Brussels on 03 September. The 20 educators and union members received special briefings on the inner workings of the Commission, the Council, the EEAS, other EU institutions and specialised training on tackling disinformation, while they had the opportunity to convey their worldview to their interlocutors in Brussels.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski in Cyprus 1-3/9/24
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Janusz Wojciechowski was in Cyprus this week for the #MED9 Agricultural Ministerial Meeting. The main proceedings were on drought threats to agricultural production in Mediterranean Member States. During his visit the Commissioner also visited a hydroponic farm in Ormidia, and met a sheep farmer from Avdelero.
EP Ambassador Schools visit Brussels 29/8/24
On 29 August the Representation organised an information visit to Brussels for a group of Cypriot students who are participating in the #EPAmbassadorSchools programme, following a personal invitation by President-elect von der Leyen. The students had the chance to experience the iconic Jean Monnet room of the Berlaymont in Brussels, the location for the weekly meetings of the College of Commissioners.
Supporting Fengaros Festival 1-3 August 2024
The Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus was a proud supporter of this year's Fengaros Festival, 1-3 August 2024. The festival featured music from across the planet, in harmony with the traditional village of Kato Drys. Over three scorching summer days, across four stages with more than 60 acts in total, this year’s lineup was a melting pot of genres and cultures with artists from three continents, as well as the cream of the crop of the local scene.
Speech at launch of PREVENT Programme 6 June 2024
The opening event and application preparation workshop of the PREVENT programme by NGO Support Centre was held on 6 June 2024 at the Nicosia Municipal Multipurpose Center. The aim of the event was to present the objectives of the PREVENT programme, as well as the open call for proposals "Prevention and Combating of Gender-Based Violence and Violence against Children", through which a total of 1.61 million euros will be allocated in grants to the Civil Society in Cyprus and Greece. Our Deputy Head, Nikos Isaris spoke about the important role of the EU in dealing with gender-based violence and protecting children.
Europe Direct centres from Greece visit Cyprus 5-8 June 2024
From 5-8 June a group of 30 people from the EUROPE DIRECT centres across Greece, visited Cyprus for a networking visit with the EUROPE DIRECT centres in Cyprus. The visit took place in the context of the 20-year anniversary of Cyprus’ accession to the EU and the purpose of the visit was to exchange good practices of actions of the network in Cyprus and to explore possibilities of collaboration. Their two-day visit included presentations and visits to the EUROPE DIRECT centres in Nicosia (at the University of Cyprus and at the Home for Cooperation), in Limassol (at the Cyprus University of Technology) and in Larnaca (with a tour of the EU Generation exhibition at the Medieval Castle of Larnaca). The participants also had a historical tour across divided Nicosia, and a presentation at the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus regarding the communication of European issues in Cyprus.
Renegade in Action Parkour Competition 2/6/24
Renegade in Action Parkour Competition: We supported the first Parkour competition of Cyprus which brought together parkour enthusiasts from across the country to showcase their skills, creativity and athleticism. A celebration of urban culture and athleticism, which took place on Sunday 2 June 2024 at Eleftheria Square in Nicosia. https://renegadeinaction.com
Supporting the Makers Fair 2/6/24
We were pleased to support the technology and creativity festival MAKERS FAIR, which returned for the second consecutive year on Sunday in Larnaca! The event was open to all ages, to acquaint the public with the capabilities and processes of the technological equipment available at the Youth Makerspace Larnaka. It is based on the Makers’ Movement to bring creators and makers together, promoting innovation and encouraging experimentation and making. Attendees were able to explore interactive STEAM workshops on robotics and programming, participate in useful skills demonstrations creative wood and clay building workshops, and more. Visitors also had the opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge with participants, take part in discussions, and enjoy street food, drinks, sweets, and music. The festival took place on Sunday 2 June 2024 at the Youth Makerspace in Larnaka.
Supporting Cyprus Pride 1/6/24
The Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus once again supported the Cyprus Pride, organised for the tenth year this year by Accept-LGBTI Cyprus. We have been proud supporters of this event from the very beginning and we will continue to march proudly until true equality is achieved for all! The event was also attended by Commissioner Stella Kyriakides and our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris, who marched along with diplomats of EU Member States. Equality and non-discrimination are core values and fundamental rights in the EU, enshrined in its Treaties and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. We all share a responsibility to protect fundamental rights and ensure equal treatment and equality for all.
Celebrating Europe Day in the Turkish Cypriot community 24/5/24
Celebrating Europe Day in the Turkish Cypriot community: Europe Day was celebrated in the Turkish Cypriot community in a festival organised by the EU Infopoint on Zahra Street on Friday 24 May. With various activities, youth choirs, music, entertainment, EU embassy stalls and much more, the event was a huge success. The event was also attended by Mario Nava, Director-General of the DG for Structural Reform Support, during his most recent visit to Cyprus.
Visit from Ohio State University students to EU House May 2024
We were delighted to welcome a group of Geography and Nursing students from The Ohio State University to EU House as part of their recent Cyprus visit. Our very own Alexis Pantelides presented the EU's climate and social policies followed by a discussion on EU policy making and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Many thanks to Dr Stavros Constantinou and Dianne Morrison Beedy of the OSU's Office of International Affairs for the initiative.
‘You are Not Alone’ original song commissioned by the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus
‘You are Not Alone’ original song: To mark the 20 year anniversary of Cyprus entering the EU, the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus commissioned an original song by celebrated Cypriot composer and singer, Alex Panayi, entitled 'You Are Not Alone'. The song is performed by 27 young singers from Potenzia Del' Arte Performing Arts Center, representing the 27 EU Member States and premiered at our Europe Day festival in Limassol on 11 May 2024.
Europe Day Festival 11/5/24
The Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus together with the European Parliament Office in Cyprus and Limassol Municipality organised a large festival in Limassol on Saturday 11 May 2024. The festival featured an 'EU village' with stalls from EU member states distributing information and cultural items reflecting their countries, information about European programmes, European Parliament Ambassador School exhibits, and photographs and video about EU policies and projects. This was followed by a series of musical performances including the Philharmonic Orchestra of Limassol Municipality, a performance by Eurovision stars Alex Panayi and Konstantinos Christoforou with ONE, the premiere of an original song composed by Alex Panayi to mark the 20 years of accession of Cyprus to the EU, and a concert by Doros Demosthenous and his band. The event was attended by President Nikos Christodoulides, European Commissioner Stella Kyriakides and Limassol Mayor Nikos Nikolaides.
Reception at EU House to mark Europe Day 09/5/24
The Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus and the European Parliament Office in Cyprus hosted a special reception at EU House on the morning of Europe Day, 9 May 2024. The event was attended by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, Commissioner Stella Kyriakides and Speaker of the House Annita Demetriou, as well as ambassadors of EU Member States and other dignitaries. Children from the École Franco-Chypriote school performed the EU Anthem, Ode to Joy, and there was a live jazz band.
Local councillors visit the European Commission 22-23/4/24
A group of local councillors from Cyprus and Greece visited the European Commission in Brussels from 22-23 April 2024 as part of the project “Building Europe with Local Councillors” [BELC]. The BELC project makes it possible for local politicians to work together and to disseminate information about EU issues that concern their constituents at the local level. It also helps to boost engagement and foster debates about these issues and the future of Europe. The overall aim is to support the creation of a truly European public sphere. More information about BELC can be found here: https://europa.eu/!YD7jH8
Study visit of young diplomats from Cyprus to the European Commission 23/4/24
The Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus organised a study visit to the European Commission in Brussels for young diplomats from the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cyprus Ministry of Defence. As part of their programme they met with Giorgos Rossides, Head of Cabinet for European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, had a live tour of the European External Action Service Situation Room and the EU diplomatic service HQ, as well as a meeting with their colleagues from the Permanent Representative of Cyprus in Brussels.
Scyence Fair 2024 17/4/24
For the second year running, we proudly supported the Scyence Fair, organised by the Cyprus Institute. It brings together children of all ages, united by their love of science, exploration and curiosity. We were so impressed by the ingenuity displayed by the participants at this year’s festival. Speaking at the launch, our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris described how the Fair gives children who love science and tech the opportunity to 'learn through play and experiments'.
Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius visited Cyprus 15/4/24
Virginijus Sinkevičius, Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans & Fisheries visited Cyprus on 15 April 2024.His programme included meetings with the Minister of Agriculture, the Deputy Minister for European Affairs and the Mayor of Nicosia. He also held a dialogue with environmental, biodiversity and conservation NGOs from the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, and had a tour of CYENSCoE and environmental projects in Nicosia.
Stella Kyriakides in Cyprus 11-14/4/24
As part of her visit to Cyprus 11-14 April 2024, Commissioner Kyriakides participated in the 49th Christodoula March in Nicosia. The annual march raises awareness on issues related to cancer and is organised by the Cyprus Anticancer Society. During her visit she also addressed the 10th meeting of the WHO's Small Countries Initiative (SCI) in Limassol, spoke at the SEK Trade Union event on sexual harassment in the workplace and met with the House of Young Representatives.
Vice President Margaritis Schinas in Cyprus 22/3/24
Vice-President Margaritis Schinas visited Cyprus on the 22 March 2024: His visit included, among other things, participation in a cross-ministerial meeting, a lively discussion with students at the University of Nicosia, a meeting with Erasmus+ programme participants, and a visit to cultural heritage sites in Larnaca.
Ms Zambarta at World Consumer Day event 15/3/24
Our Head Myrto Zambarta spoke at a conference organised by the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry on the occasion of World Consumer Day in Nicosia on 15 March 2024. Speaking at the event, Ms Zambarta outlined that "the goal of the EU Strategy for Consumers is to give them the power of easy, conscious and free choice. Consumers need to know their rights in order to assert them."
Bicommunal group of high school students visit Brussels 13-14/3/24
In their first ever joint study trip, 17 EU high school students from the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities studying at the United World Colleges (UWC) in Germany and in the Netherlands visited Brussels on 13 and 14 March to learn about the EU institutions, policies and programmes. The study visit was organised within the framework of the EU Scholarship Programme for Cypriot Youth to study at UWC, a bi-communal peace programme that aims to build trust and mutual understanding between the communities with the overarching goal of contributing to reconciliation and Cyprus’ reunification. The EU Scholarship Programme for Cypriot Youth to study at UWC is funded under the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, which aims to facilitate Cyprus' reunification. Read more here.
International Women's Day event on refugee women co-organised with UNHCR Cyprus 8/3/24
On 8 March 2024, on the occasion of #InternationalWomensDay we co-organised a special event with UNHCR Cyprus on refugee women in Cyprus.
Speaking at the event our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris said: “The EU remains committed to supporting national efforts to ensure dignified conditions for refugees and asylum seekers in #Cyprus and to ensure the specific needs of women and girls are taken into account. A lot has been achieved but of course more needs to be done.”
Profound, personal testimonies were given by women from Cameroon and Somalia, followed by a panel discussion with the Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies (MIGS), Caritas Cyprus, the Deputy Ministry of Welfare and the National Coordinating Body on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women, Ministry of Justice.
Leopoldo Rubinacci, Deputy Director-General of the DG for Trade in Cyprus 4-7 March 2024
We were delighted to host Leopoldo Rubinacci, Deputy Director-General of the Directorate-General for Trade at the European Commission, during his two-day visit to #Cyprus in early March for discussions related to trade and commerce. He met with representatives from Cypriot farmers' associations, stakeholders from the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation, and the Cyprus Consumers’ Association, as well as the Minister of Commerce and Energy and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Inauguration of the new EU Infopoint in the Turkish Cypriot community 27/2/24
A new EU Infopoint was inaugurated in the Turkish Cypriot community with the support of the European Commission and the attendance of European ambassadors.
Mario Nava, Director-General of EU Reforms attended the opening ceremony and gave a speech about EU support aimed at facilitating the reunification of Cyprus.
The EU Infopoint aims to increase public knowledge, awareness and understanding of the European Union, its values, policies and programmes as well as the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community. The EU Infopoint is a project funded by the European Union under the Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community with the aim to bring the Turkish Cypriot community closer to the EU.
Visit the EU Infopoint's website here.
Media freedom in the Turkish Cypriot community 23/2/24
The EU Infopoint in the Turkish Cypriot community organised an event supported by the European Commission and the Turkish Cypriot Union of Journalists on press freedom. The event included the screening of a documentary entitled 'The Killing of a Journalist', which provides a compelling look at the challenges faced by a group of journalists in Slovakia. Nikos Isaris, the Deputy Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus gave the keynote address at the event saying: "The EU has continuously worked to protect journalists and ensure that safeguards are in place for media freedom throughout the evolution of the media sector over the past decades. That is why, last December, the EU took definitive steps to ensure that media freedom is not just a principle enshrined in treaties but a living, breathing aspect of our daily lives. The European Media Freedom Act is an ambitious initiative that seeks to protect media independence and to foster a diverse and pluralistic media landscape across the Union." Members of the Turkish Cypriot Journalists Union, who came together at the event, had the opportunity to discuss important issues regarding press freedom.
Effective Communication Training for Europe Direct centres 22/02/24
The Representation organised an all-day seminar on Effective Communication Practices for the Europe Direct centres. It took place in Larnaca on Thursday 22 February 2024 and included presentations by experts and marketing specialists on subjects such as communicating with the press, how to chair debates, effective public speaking, presenting techniques and communicating on social media with impact.
Press conference on the EU elections 13/2/24
A special press conference was held at the Home for Cooperation in Nicosia's buffer zone on 13 February 2024. Organised by Europe Direct Ledra, its aim was to brief journalists about the upcoming EU elections to be held in Cyprus on 9 June. Thea Pieridou of the European Parliament Office in Cyprus and Athanasios Athanasiou of the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus shared perspectives on voter engagement, and collaborative initiatives on active citizenship. From stressing the importance of voter registration to addressing concerns about language inclusivity, the briefing showcased the commitment to ensuring everyone's voice is heard in the democratic process.
Nicolas Schmit, Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, visits Cyprus 2/2/24
Nicolas Schmit, European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights visited Cyprus on Friday. His meetings included the President, Nikos Christodoulides, the Minister of Labour and Social Insurance, Yiannis Panayiotou, the President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, Nicosia Mayor Constantinos Yiorkadjis, and Deputy Minister of EU Affairs, Marilena Raouna.
During his visit the Commissioner also met with social partners and labour unions, and was impressed by his visits to EU-funded social projects in Nicosia including a day-care centre for children from vulnerable backgrounds, and training for young people in the skills that are in demand in the labour market.
Nikos Isaris at the Green and Sustainable Finance Conference in Nicosia, 18/1/24
"The reality of climate change shows that we have no time to lose. The decisions and investments we make now are what will define our collective legacy. And the future of generations to come." Our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris speaking at the Green and Sustainable Finance Conference in Nicosia, 18/1/24.
Ylva Johansson visits Pournara 9/1/24
Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson visiting the Pournara Reception Centre as part of her visit to Cyprus to discuss current challenges in migration management and security.
Commissioner Ylva Johansson in Cyprus 9/1/24
Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson visited Cyprus to discuss current challenges in migration management and security. During her visit she met with the Ministers of Interior and Foreign Affairs, as well as with the Deputy Minister for Social Welfare. She also met with migration and asylum stakeholders and visit the Zenon Joint Rescue Coordination Centre and Pournara reception centre.
In her bilateral meeting with Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, Commissioner Johansson expressed the EU's support in Cyprus' management of migration and discussed efforts to combat migrant smuggling.
Myrto Zambarta speaking at the 2nd Annual RRF event 14/12/23
Myrto Zambarta, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus spoke at the second annual event on Cyprus' Recovery and Resilience Facility (2021-2026), which took place in Nicosia on the 14 December 2023. In her address she outlined the importance of preparing for future challenges, saying: "The Recovery and Resilience Mechanism is the EU's response to the major crises we have faced and are facing in recent years. We have seen spikes in the price of energy and problems in supply chains. We also saw how crucial it is to move forward with green and digital transition reforms so that our economies can recover and become more resilient to future challenges. We cannot predict the future. But we can prepare. Signs of future challenges are already visible. We have a duty to strengthen our collective readiness now."
Bicommunal press visit to Brussels 4/12/23
The Representation organised a visit to the European Commission headquarters in Brussels for a bicommunal group of Cypriot journalists. During their visit they met with Commissioner Stella Kyriakides.
Progressing in Green Transition event 1/12/23
Our Head Myrto Zambarta spoke at the event "Progressing in Green Transition: Advancing the Clean Energy Agenda through Industrial Applications of Solar Energy" organised by the Spanish Embassy at The Cyprus Institute on 1 December 2023. In her speech Ms Zambarta said "Renewable energy is crucial in our global move towards fossil fuel-free energy systems. Cyprus must use its comparative advantages. The EU is here to support this transition. The wholesale use of solar energy in Cyprus is a no-brainer. With technological advancements and EU and national financial support, the concept that every household is not only energy self-sufficient but an energy producer, is not a pipe dream. It’s a realistic and necessary target."
Nikos Isaris at the Regional Forum for Blue Skills 1/12/23
Our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris addressed the Regional Forum for Blue Skills on 1 December 2023 in Ayia Napa organised by the CMMI - Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, ΙΔΕΠ Διά Βίου Μάθησης Erasmus+ Cyprus and Αρχή Ανάπτυξης Ανθρώπινου Δυναμικού Κύπρου - ΑνΑΔ.
"The only way to harness Cyprus’ potential in the blue economy is if we invest in its human capital: in their skills and potential. Investing in its people is the strongest investment in the island’s future. That is why today’s Regional Forum is so important. So that we can make sure we foster the relevant blue skills that can contribute to the prosperity of Cyprus."
Orange the world 25/11/23
On Saturday 25/11, our building was lit in orange to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Through this symbolic gesture we joined our voices in raising awareness of the issue of violence against women and girls in society.
Mental Health in Sports event 17/11/23
"We must break the silence on mental health, in sports and in all aspects of life. It is ok to not be ok, and to seek the help we need."
Commissioner Stella Kyriakides speaking at the event on "Mental Health in Sports: Loud Silence” organised by GDA Sports Ltd with support from the European Commission in Cyprus.
Isabelle Pérignon, Director for Consumers in Cyprus 8/11/23
We were delighted to welcome Isabelle Pérignon, Director for Consumers, Directorate-General Justice and Consumers of the European Commission to Cyprus where she participated in a special Consumer Dialogue: "New consumer Agenda - Challenges ahead" at EU House in Nicosia.
Pictured with our Deputy Head, Nikos Isaris.
Joint visit to Brussels for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot translators and interpreters 9-13 October
The Commission services organised a first ever joint visit to Brussels for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot translators and interpreters during 9th to 13th of October. A group of 20 Cypriot linguists learnt first-hand what it means to translate and interpret for the EU. They experienced the practical aspects of working in the multilingual environment of EU institutions, which included sharing EU standards and best practices in translation and interpretation. During the 5-day visit, the participants met with the relevant services of the Commission and the Parliament, including with the Commission’s Director-General for Interpretation, Genoveva Ruiz Calavera, the Commission’s Acting Director-General for Translation, Christos Ellinides, the Parliament’s Director-General for Translation, Valter Mavrič, and the Parliament’s Director-General for Logistics and Interpretation for Conferences, Agnieszka Walter Drop.
Amongst others, the group had the opportunity to explore the state-of-the-art digital translation tools and observe interpreters during the Commission’s midday briefing and the Parliament committees’ meetings.
Our Head, Myrto Zambarta at the Europa Nostra award ceremony for Hambis Tsangaris 11/10/12
Our Head, Myrto Zambarta spoke at the award ceremony honouring printmaker and artist Hambis Tsangaris who received the Europa Nostra Heritage Champion award at a special event in Nicosia. We honour his immense and invaluable contribution to the cultural heritage and art of Cyprus.
Commissioner Stella Kyriakides at the 19th Europa Donna march 7/10/23
“Despite significant progress in science and medicine, people with a history of cancer still face social and economic discrimination today. The "right to be forgotten"* is our vision for equality and tackling discrimination.” Commissioner Stella Kyriakides at the 19th EUROPA DONNA CYPRUS March with Pink Silhouettes on 7 October 2023
*The “right to be forgotten” principle aims to ensure fairness in access to financial products for persons with a history of cancer.
Commissioner Stella Kyriakides at POGO event 6/10/23
Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides gave a keynote speech on Europe's Beating Cancer Plan at an event organised at EU House in Nicosia by the Pancyprian Federation of Women's Organisations (POGO).
Deputy Head Nikos Isaris addresses the Cyprus Forum 30/9/23
"New challenges have emerged which threaten rights, civil discourse and public health. Making it even more pressing that an appropriate legal framework is in place. This is what the EU's cornerstone legislation - the Digital Services Act - is about."
Our Deputy Head, Nikos Isaris, addressing the Cyprus Forum on the 30 September 2023.
Launch of Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU 6/7/23
A press conference was held at EU House to mark Spain taking over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU until December 2023, with a promise to focus on the green transition and social and economic justice.
European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders in Cyprus 6/5/23
Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, travelled to Nicosia, Cyprus on 4 and 5 May 2023, to discuss the 2022 Rule of Law Report, as well as the enforcement of the EU restrictive measures against listed Russian & Belarussian individuals and companies. During the visit, Commissioner Reynders met with the Minister for Justice, Anna Koukkides-Procopiou; and Speaker of the House, Annita Demetriou.
The Commissioner exchanged views on the rule of law with the representatives from the Parliamentary Committees on Foreign and European Affairs, on Legal Affairs, as well as on Institutions, Merit and the Commissioner for Administration. He also take part in a roundtable discussion with the representatives of civil society organisations present in Cyprus on the situation of the rule of law in Cyprus.
Finally, Commissioner Reynders met with the Attorney-General of Republic of Cyprus, George L. Savvides, and the Commissioner for Transparency, Harris I. Boyiadjis, to discuss the judicial reforms in Cyprus.
Graduates Bootcamp at the European University of Cyprus 30/6/23
The Representation supported the Graduates Bootcamp at the Future Skills Hub of the European University Cyprus. The 2-days of workshops was part of our commitment to the European Year of Skills, aimed at boosting upskilling, training and innovation in EU member states.
Annual Conference of the European Association of Environmental & Resource Economists 27/6/23
Our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris addressed the 650 participants of the Annual Conference of the European Association of Environmental & Resource Economists, which took place in Limassol 27-30 June 2023. The conference was organised by the The Cyprus Institute, the Cyprus University of Technology / Τεχνολογικό Πανεπιστήμιο Κύπρου and the University of Cyprus, with support from the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus.
Meeting with Accept-LGBTI Cyprus 23/6/23
On the 23 June 2023, Commissioner Stella Kyriakides met with members of Accept - LGBTI Cyprus to discuss various issues related to health in the trans community. The meeting was held at EU House in Nicosia.
Commissioner Kyriakides visits Mammography Centre in Paphos 22/6/23
On the 22 June 2023, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides visited the new Mammography Centre in Geroskipou, Paphos district as part of her official visit to Cyprus. The Ministry of Health invites all women aged 45-75 to take part in the breast cancer population screening programme which is offered free of charge. Call 26-306444 to make your appointment.
Make Music Cyprus Festival 21/6/23
The Representation supported the 2023 Make Music Cyprus festival on the 21 June 2023. It celebrates World Music Day in the heart of Nicosia with live music of all genres, interactive music activities, food and drink. More than 350 musicians took part.
European Year of Skills action plan launch 2/6/23
Our Deputy Head Nikos Isaris gave a presentation at a press conference introducing the National Action Plan for the European Year of Skills "Contemporary Professional Development for the green and digital transformation", which took place at the Presidential Palace on 2 June 2023.
Bicommunal First Lego League Discover/Explore event 28/5/23
We were happy to support the bicommunal First Lego League Discover/Explore event that took place in the Nicosia buffer zone on the 28 May 2023, bringing together over 200+ students nd 50+ coaches from both communities of the island. The European Year of Skills wants to empower young people, and girls in particular, in digital and green techs kills.
Bicommunal First Lego League Discover/ExploreMathisisMasterKids EducationIET Cyprus Local NetworkGoethe Institut Nicosia
Support for Cyprus Pride 27/5/23
Cyprus Pride 2023: a day of celebration of diversity and love and a reminder of the progress achieved but also the challenges ahead to end discrimination once and for all. The EU stands with the LGBTI+ community every step of the way.
Europe Day in Nicosia 13/5/23
We celebrated all that the European Union has to offer us - over half a century of peace, stability and prosperity - with a big festival in Eleftheria Square in Nicosia on 13 May 2023, featuring live music, activities for kids, tasty treats from member states and much more!
Raising of the EU flag in Eleftheria Square: Europe Day 9/5/23
Early in the morning of 9 May, the EU flag was raised in Eleftheria Square in Nicosia in the presence of European Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, Constantinos Kombos, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Myrto Zambarta, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Cyprus, Andreas Kettis, Head of the European Parliament Office in Cyprus, Constantinos Yiorkadjis, Mayor of Nicosia, Mehmet Harmancı, Martin Hagström, Ambassador of Sweden to Cyprus at the Embassy of Sweden in Nicosia and members of the diplomatic community.
Commissioner Kyriakides then gave a keynote address at the House of Representatives at a special event to mark Europe Day.