Cyprus

Significant political developments are unfolding as Nicosia mayors Mehmet Harmanci, Mayor of the Nicosia Turkish Municipality, and Charalambos Prountzos, Mayor of Nicosia, have led a mass withdrawal from the upcoming Cyprus Forum. This move comes amidst indications of pressure related to the Elam party, highlighting deepening political fissures within the capital's civic life. Separately, former Democratic Rally (DISY) President Averof Neofytou has intensified political speculation by declaring his intent to run for president, with or without his former party's backing, a move that is already shifting internal party dynamics.

Meanwhile, the country faces a deepening educational crisis, with Cypriot 15-year-olds ranking last in the EU in the PISA 2025 international assessment, and 43% failing to meet basic proficiency levels in science, reading, and math. Economically, the Fiscal Council has recommended measures to curb public sector wages, while the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEVE) has warned of a negative impact on Cypriot businesses due to dividend contributions. The housing market also continues to see significant increases, with prices rising by 8.5% and foreign nationals accounting for half of all buyers. The government is also planning a substantial investment of €1.3 billion in modern…

In other news, two separate assault incidents have been reported: a 40-year-old woman was arrested for assaulting a teacher outside a primary school in Paphos, and a Somali migrant was hospitalized after being assaulted by a co-habitant in Pournara. On the international front, the Cyprus problem continues to be a subject of discussion, with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu all addressing the issue in various contexts. Weather forecasts indicate a disrupted weekend with falling temperatures and incoming rain.