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Cyprus Bolsters Innovation Leadership Through EU–India Strategic Forum

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 12, 2026

High-Level Strategic Engagement

Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides led Cyprus’ delegation at the invitation-only EU-India Forum held in New Delhi on February 6–7. Accompanied by Heraklitos Iosifides, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Cyprus High Commission in India, and Nicolas Kyriakides, President of the Cyprus Forum, the delegation underscored Cyprus’ strategic intent within the evolving EU-India Innovation and Technology Partnership.

Transforming Political Commitments Into Operational Impact

Set against the backdrop of the 16th India–EU Summit and the landmark India–EU Free Trade Agreement, the forum acted as a bridge between high-level political commitments and practical cooperation. Hosted by India’s Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar and organized by the Ananta Centre in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, the event focused on priority areas such as maritime security, emerging technologies including semiconductors, cybersecurity and AI governance, as well as connectivity and sustainable energy.

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Forging Strategic Alliances Across Sectors

More than 200 senior policymakers, industry leaders, technocrats, and experts from India and all 27 EU Member States converged to explore sectors spanning Security and Defence, Technology, and Trade. Panel discussions emphasized the need for interoperability in AI ethics, the upgrading of digital infrastructure, and the establishment of enhanced trade architectures to foster mutual economic benefits. The sessions brought forward dynamic perspectives on safeguarding Europe’s competitive edge amid rapid technological advancements, with notable contributions from influential figures including Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and former Principal Scientific Adviser Professor K. Vijay Raghavan.

Pathways To An Operational Innovation Engine

Looking forward, Cyprus is poised to extend these strategic dialogues into tangible innovation and research initiatives. Chief Scientist Skourides, with plans to further his engagement during Deputy Minister Nicodemos Damianou’s forthcoming visit and at the India AI Impact Expo 2026 in New Delhi, aims to shape an operational India-Cyprus Innovation Engine. This initiative is designed to connect digital infrastructure, talent mobility, and investment pathways, providing a scalable platform for startups and high-tech ecosystems to prosper in Cyprus.

Consolidating A Position As A Regional Innovation Hub

Emphasizing Cyprus’ unique geographical and strategic positioning at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, Skourides articulated a clear mandate for the nation’s role as a trusted innovation gateway. With Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union reinforcing its commitment to digital autonomy, sovereignty, and ethical AI, the country is set to convert strategic discussions into substantial economic growth, scientific excellence, and enhanced global collaboration.

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Cyprus Introduces €200 Million Support Measures To Cut Energy And Food Costs

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 27, 2026

Comprehensive Relief Measures For A Resilient Economy

The government of Cyprus introduced support measures exceeding €200 million to reduce household expenses and support key sectors. The package targets energy costs, food prices, tourism and agriculture. Measures come in response to rising costs and supply pressures. Implementation begins in April and May 2026.

Energy And Fiscal Reforms

The government will reduce VAT on electricity for households to 5% from May 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. The measure is expected to lower energy bills. Special consumption tax on transport fuels will decrease by 8.33 cents per liter between April and June 2026. Policy targets fuel-related costs.

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Broadening The Zero VAT Initiative

Authorities will expand the list of products with zero VAT. Meat, poultry and fish will be included from April 1 to September 30, 2026. Existing zero-VAT categories already include fruits and vegetables. The government also decided not to introduce a green tax on fuels, avoiding an additional cost of about 9 cents per liter.

Sector-Specific Supports

The package includes a 30% wage subsidy for hotel employees for April 2026. Measure supports tourism businesses during the early season. Support for airlines aims to maintain connectivity with key destinations. The agriculture sector will receive subsidies covering 15% of costs for fertilizers and supplies in April and May.

Economic Stability, National Security

President Nikos Christodoulidis said economic stability remains a priority for the government. He noted that growth, fiscal balance and inflation trends support current policy decisions. Statement links economic policy with broader national priorities. The government continues to monitor external risks.

Ensuring Consumer Protection

Furthermore, the government has mandated rigorous market oversight and intensified inspections to prevent exploitative pricing during this period of economic intervention. This proactive stance ensures that the benefits of the measures directly serve the citizens without unintended inflationary impacts.