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ENI Reaffirms Commitment To Cyprus EEZ Amid Speculation

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 4, 2024

Italian energy giant Eni has reiterated its commitment to its operations in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), dispelling recent speculation about a potential sale of its rights. This affirmation comes directly from the President of Cyprus, reinforcing the region’s strategic importance in Eni’s portfolio and underscoring the broader geopolitical and economic stakes at play in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Eni, one of the world’s leading oil and gas companies, has been a significant player in Cyprus’ EEZ for several years. The company’s activities in the region are crucial for its portfolio and Cyprus’ ambitions to become a key energy hub in the Eastern Mediterranean. The confirmation from Eni about maintaining its interests in Cyprus is a stabilising message to the market, investors, and regional stakeholders.

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The speculation regarding Eni’s potential exit was fuelled by the volatile nature of the global energy markets and shifting strategic priorities among major oil companies. However, Eni’s reaffirmation highlights the enduring value it places on its Cypriot assets. This commitment is particularly significant as it coincides with ongoing geopolitical tensions and complex dynamics involving neighbouring countries with competing territorial claims and interests in the region’s rich energy resources.

The Eastern Mediterranean has emerged as a pivotal arena for energy exploration, with numerous international players vying for a stake in its abundant hydrocarbon reserves. Cyprus, with its strategic location and promising energy prospects, has attracted considerable attention from major energy corporations. Eni’s steadfast presence in Cyprus’ EEZ is a testament to the region’s potential and Eni’s strategic foresight in maintaining its foothold in this burgeoning energy landscape.

Cyprus’ President highlighted the importance of Eni’s continued operations, emphasising the mutual benefits and strategic alignment between Cyprus and Eni. The collaboration extends beyond mere resource extraction; it involves technological transfer, infrastructure development, and broader economic cooperation. For Cyprus, Eni’s commitment is a crucial component of its energy strategy, aimed at enhancing energy security, diversifying energy sources, and bolstering economic growth.

Furthermore, Eni’s stance can be viewed as a vote of confidence in Cyprus’ regulatory framework and the overall stability of its investment environment. It also reinforces the notion that Cyprus is a reliable partner capable of navigating the complexities of international energy markets and regional geopolitics.

For Eni, retaining its rights in Cyprus’ EEZ aligns with its broader strategy of maintaining a diversified portfolio and securing long-term growth. The Eastern Mediterranean offers not just immediate extraction opportunities but also long-term strategic advantages, including proximity to major markets in Europe and Asia.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.