Cyprus

Cypriot authorities have seized another 260 kilograms of suspicious ketamine in a major drug bust in Limassol, marking a significant development in ongoing efforts against drug smuggling. Concurrently, Attorney General George L. Savvides has officially terminated the investigation into the controversial 'black van' surveillance case. Meanwhile, a special parliamentary committee is now seeking a legal opinion on whether a criminal offense was committed by a former minister who allegedly failed to declare millions in assets.

In other domestic news, the father of the 3-year-old child whose tragic death was reported yesterday has returned to Cyprus, citing no other option. Economically, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEVE) has issued a warning about a potential new surge in meat and fish prices, calling for an immediate extension of the reduced VAT rate. Looking ahead, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou announced that over 4,100 new residential units are expected to enter the market within the next three years through various incentive and 'built to rent' schemes.

On a positive note, primary schools across Cyprus have reopened for the new academic year, welcoming over 52,000 children. Furthermore, President Nikos Christodoulides, who serves as both the head of state and government, stated that preparations are underway with the hope of achieving tangible results on the Cyprus problem during the upcoming UN General Assembly. He also highlighted that the US extension of its arms embargo waiver on Cyprus sends a clear message about the strength of US-Cyprus relations.