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Minister Of Finance Urges Greek Businesses To Invest In Cyprus

Cypriot Minister of Finance, Mr. Makis Keravnos, addressed the “3 Business Presentations of Cyprus in Greece” event in Athens on January 29, 2025, where he highlighted the importance of strengthening economic ties between Cyprus and Greece. He emphasized the long-standing historical and economic connections between the two nations and their resilience in the face of geopolitical challenges.

Mr. Keravnos pointed out Cyprus’ strategic position as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and Africa, noting the dynamic growth of the Cypriot economy. He highlighted key sectors such as tourism, financial services, shipping, and technology as crucial to the country’s development. In his speech, the Minister noted that Cyprus achieved a growth rate of 3.7% in 2024, surpassing the EU average. Unemployment fell below 5%, and inflation dropped from 3.5% to 1.8%. Cyprus also recorded a primary surplus of 5%, which will contribute to reducing public debt below 60% of GDP by 2026.

The Minister called on Greek businesses to explore opportunities in Cyprus, underscoring the government’s commitment to attracting international companies and investment funds. He highlighted particular focus on sectors such as renewable energy, health, education, and the defense industry, which he described as a promising area for collaboration between Greek and Cypriot businesses.

Mr. Keravnos also discussed ongoing reforms, including strengthening the financial system through the Cyprus Equity Fund and the creation of the National Development Agency, as well as tax reforms aimed at fostering growth. He concluded by emphasizing Cyprus’ dedication to enhancing its international reputation, ensuring a stable business environment, and creating favorable conditions for investors.

Cyprus Expected Working Life Reaches 39.5 Years, Above EU Average

People in Cyprus are expected to spend 39.5 years in the workforce, around two years longer than the European Union average of 37.5 years, according to the latest Eurostat data for 2025.

The figure places Cyprus among the EU countries with the longest expected working lives.

Cyprus Ranks Above EU Average

Only a handful of member states recorded higher figures than Cyprus. The Netherlands topped the ranking at 44 years, followed by Sweden at 43.4 years, Denmark at 42.6 years, and Estonia at 41.5 years.

At the other end of the ranking were Romania with 32.7 years, Italy with 33.0 years, Bulgaria with 34.6 years and Greece with 35.3 years.

Gender Gap Remains Wider Than EU Average

Men in Cyprus are expected to remain in work for 42.1 years, compared with 36.7 years for women. The gap of 5.4 years exceeds the EU average gender gap of 4.1 years.

Across the bloc, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia were the only countries where women were expected to spend longer in employment than men. Finland recorded the smallest positive gender gap at 0.7 years.

Italy posted the widest gap at 8.9 years, followed by Romania at 6.9 years, Greece at 6.7 years and Malta at 6.3 years.

Working Lives Continue To Lengthen

Between 2016 and 2025, expected working life in Cyprus increased by 3.5 years, placing the country among the strongest performers in the EU over the period. Men’s expected working life rose by 3.3 years, while women’s increased by 3.6 years.

Across the EU, every member state recorded an increase. Malta posted the largest gain at 4.9 years, followed by Hungary and Ireland at 4.2 years each, and the Netherlands at 4.1 years.

Malta’s increase was driven largely by women, whose expected working life rose by 7.8 years, the biggest increase recorded across the bloc.

By comparison, Romania, Spain, Italy, Germany and Austria recorded gains of two years or less over the same period.

Women’s Working Lives Increase Faster Across Europe

Women’s expected working life increased faster than men’s in most EU countries. Denmark, Romania, Sweden and Greece were the main exceptions.

In Cyprus, gains for men and women were broadly similar, alongside Bulgaria, Belgium and Slovenia.

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