The arrival today in Cyprus of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and French President Emmanuel Macron for a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides, the impact of the war on the Cypriot economy, the request to suspend the culling of animals under foot-and-mouth disease measures, and an anti-war event organised by women from PEO and POGO are among the topics featured on the front pages of Cypriot newspapers.
Alithia, under the headline “No sign of de-escalation”, reports in its main story on missile exchanges, air strikes and fears of a broader escalation, noting that Macron and Mitsotakis arrive in Cyprus today for coordination and further support for the island. In another report, the newspaper writes that livestock farmers have become increasingly frustrated and have intervened in the work of the Veterinary Services, halting the culling of animals. Elsewhere, it reports on protests and internal tensions within the competitive electricity market.
Politis, with the headline “Under the microscope of rating agencies”, reports in its main story that the war in the Middle East threatens the Cypriot economy. Senior analysts from rating agencies told the newspaper that the scale of the impact will depend on the duration of the crisis. In another report, it refers to a European “shield” around Cyprus, noting that in a move of strong symbolism the leaders of Greece and France are arriving today for a meeting with President Christodoulides. The newspaper also reports that one in three women are victims of sexual harassment.
Phileleftheros, under the headline “Trilateral solidarity”, reports in its main story on the significance of today’s meeting between Macron, Mitsotakis and Christodoulides in Paphos, noting that the arrival of the Greek and French leaders in Cyprus aims to send multiple messages. In another report, the newspaper writes that tensions in the Middle East are dangerously high. It also reports that the President has asked the President of the European Commission for a derogation to save the livestock sector, while the culling of animals infected with foot-and-mouth disease has been suspended until Cyprus’ request to Brussels is clarified.
Haravgi, under the headline “Bases out – Stop the war”, reports that strong messages in favour of peace and solidarity, and against war, were delivered by women at a mass event marking International Women’s Day organised by the Women’s Department of PEO and POGO. Elsewhere, it reports that AKEL is attempting to establish protections for borrowers and guarantors through seven legislative proposals, with a major debate expected today in the Parliamentary Finance Committee. The newspaper also notes that Mitsotakis and Macron are arriving in Cyprus amid increased military activity.