Cyprus And Greece Sign MoU To Drive Digital Transformation

Cyprus and Greece have solidified their commitment to digital transformation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement, formalised by Nicodemos Damianou, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy of Cyprus, and Dimitris Papastergiou, Minister of Digital Governance of Greece, aims to enhance the digital capabilities of both nations.

Strategic Digital Cooperation

The MoU focuses on exchanging best practices, expertise, and technological know-how to develop advanced digital applications and services. A key component of this initiative is the “Digital Citizen” application in Cyprus, modeled after Greece’s Gov.gr Wallet. This application will facilitate electronic identity verification and digital signatures, streamlining interactions between citizens and the state.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Enhancing Public Services

The collaboration is designed to improve the operational efficiency of public services in both countries. By leveraging each other’s strengths and experiences, Cyprus and Greece aim to provide their citizens with more effective and user-friendly digital services. The shared goal is to utilise technology to benefit the populace, enhancing transparency, accessibility, and convenience in public sector operations.

Leadership Perspectives

During the signing ceremony in Athens, Damianou expressed his appreciation for Greece’s cooperation, highlighting the mutual benefits of the partnership in driving digital modernisation. Papastergiou echoed these sentiments, emphasising the shared objective of using technology to enhance citizens’ lives.

Long-term Vision

This agreement represents a significant step towards the digital transformation of both nations, aligning with broader European digital strategies. By fostering a collaborative environment, Cyprus and Greece are setting a precedent for regional cooperation in digital governance.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 13, 2026

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

Breaking news