State of the Union: Absences and Highlights

President Nikos Christodoulides presented the State of the Union, focusing on foreign policy, the economy, and social benefits. The event was marked by the absence of most political leaders due to a simultaneous parliamentary session.

President Christodoulides mentioned strengthening relations with Israel and the United States, upgrading Cyprus as a regional player, addressing immigration, and positive economic assessments from international firms.

Despite mentioning various issues, the President did not comment on the recent videogate scandal, which led to the resignation of his Office Director. Irene Pikis, Deputy Minister to the President, explained that the results of the criminal investigation are awaited.

The lack of reference to the issue drew criticism from the opposition. Onoufrios Koullas, press representative of DISY, stressed the need for actions, not just words, while Giorgos Loukaidis of AKEL described the conference as communication-oriented.

In the area of social benefits, the creation of three desalination units and the construction of 500 housing units on state land were announced. In education, a pilot program of free breakfast in kindergartens will be implemented, and a Social Worker will be introduced in schools. In health, 145 million euros will be allocated to public hospitals, and the construction of a new hospital in Polis Chrysochous and the creation of a pulmonology clinic in Paphos will begin.