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US Congress Moves to Fortify Ties with Cyprus Through New Legislation

by News Editor

May 16, 2025

A recent legislative initiative in the United States Congress aims to bolster the nation’s connections with Cyprus through the ‘Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act.’

Introduced by Congressman Brad Schneider from Illinois, and backed by Greek-American legislators, this bill seeks to strengthen ties across the Eastern Mediterranean, recognized as an emerging strategic hub linking Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

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Schneider stated, “This region is rapidly becoming a critical node for energy and infrastructure, necessitating stronger US diplomatic engagements with countries like Greece, Cyprus, and Israel.”

While details of the bill remain limited, it underscores the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a pivotal connection for global trade and energy supply chains, as highlighted by co-sponsor Gus Bilirakis from Florida.

Though Cyprus is not a signatory to IMEC’s initial memorandum, this bill could elevate its regional influence, especially within forums like the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Alliance. Cyprus’s strategic positioning is further emphasized in the context of US foreign policy interests.

Lifting of Arms Embargo on Cyprus

A related legislative effort aims to permanently lift the long-standing US arms embargo on Cyprus, a move set to change the regional security dynamics and investment prospects in Cyprus.

This legislative package, if enacted, will likely make Cyprus an even more crucial ally in the US’s strategic endeavors across the eastern Mediterranean.

The bill’s implementation could mark a turning point, transforming Cyprus into a central figure in regional infrastructure and security collaborations.

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Evel Elects New President As Maria Theocharous Takes Over For 2026–2029 Term

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 12, 2026

Maria Theocharous has been elected president of the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Evel), taking over from Yiannis Tsouloftas for a three-year term covering 2026–2029. Theocharous previously served as the chamber’s vice-president for tourism.

The leadership transition marks a new chapter for one of Cyprus’ main regional business organisations, with the new board set to represent the district’s key economic sectors.

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New Leadership Emphasises Cooperation

The chamber’s annual meeting brought together government, business and local authority representatives, including Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister Michael Damianos, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) president Stavros Stavrou, Limassol district local government organisation president Yiannis Tsouloftas and Limassol mayor Yiannis Armeftis.

Speakers highlighted the importance of closer cooperation between public authorities and businesses in supporting Limassol’s economic development.

Representatives of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) also congratulated Theocharous on her election and thanked the outgoing president for his cooperation. The CSC described Evel as a longstanding partner, noting the chamber’s contribution to Limassol’s business development over more than six decades.

Tsouloftas Reviews Six Years As President

In his final address, Tsouloftas reviewed the chamber’s work between 2020 and 2026, highlighting its advocacy for major infrastructure projects and efforts to address development challenges across the district.

He also outlined initiatives to remove obstacles facing local businesses, accelerate development plans and improve the conditions for economic activity.

Tsouloftas will remain involved as immediate past president, providing continuity during the transition.

New Board Covers Key Business Sectors

The new board includes representatives responsible for the chamber’s main portfolios:

Ilikos Charalambous, vice-president for commerce
Vasos Demetriades, vice-president for industry
Christos Nicolaou, vice-president for services
Nicolas Agiomamitis, vice-president for tourism
Ilias Theodorou, vice-president for finance
Demosthenes Mavrellis, vice-president for innovation and technology
Ilias Neocleous, honorary secretary

Other board members are Minos Agathocleous, Marios Antoniou, George Demetriou, Anastasios Kounoudis, Marios Constantinou, Xanthos Nemptsas, Antonis Pappas, Charalambos Pattichis, Chrysis Petousis, Farah Shammas, Andreas Tsouloftas and Kyriacos Hadjiathanasiou.

Costas Ioannides, Agathi Katsi, Anna Petraki, Filippos Filis and Tonis Hadjiloucas have been appointed members by distinction. The chamber also highlighted the growing participation of women in business leadership and decision-making.

Chamber Recognises Longstanding Contributions

The annual meeting also recognised businesses and individuals for their contributions, including members who have maintained continuous membership for 50 years.

Tributes were paid to three former contributors to the chamber, Tonis Antoniou, Dimi Mavropoulos and Andreas Laou, in recognition of their service.

Under Theocharous’ leadership, Evel begins its 2026–2029 term with a board covering commerce, industry, services, tourism, finance and innovation. Its priorities include continuing to represent Limassol businesses and advocating for the investment and cooperation needed to support the district’s economic growth.