Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ Real Estate Development Association pledged support for efforts to promote affordable housing at EU level during a meeting this week with Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou. Officials also highlighted priorities linked to Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union, as well as plans to expand digital public services.
Affordable housing discussions with Interior Minister
According to the association’s announcement, the discussion focused on housing, particularly affordability, described as one of the most pressing challenges facing European societies.
Association president Yiannis Misirlis said coordinated interventions are needed to substantially increase the supply of affordable homes. He said Cyprus has both the opportunity and the responsibility to contribute to the broader European effort.
Misirlis said Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union offers a platform to strengthen cooperation between member states and advance common policies on affordable housing.
Shipping priorities ahead of EU Council Presidency
Cyprus aims to balance decarbonisation with competitiveness during its EU Council Presidency, Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said at the 9th Capital Link Cyprus Shipping Forum in Limassol. She cited registry growth and rising shipmanagement activity as evidence of sector resilience.
Hadjimanolis delivered a keynote presentation followed by a discussion titled “Cyprus Maritime Cluster in the Spotlight – Strength, Resilience & Growth” with Nicolas Montanios.
She said global shipping remains under pressure due to geopolitical instability, market volatility and the accelerating green and digital transition, while adding that shipping has shown an ability to adapt and lead. She said Cyprus shipping has delivered tangible results.
According to Hadjimanolis, the Cyprus registry increased total tonnage by 23 per cent, reaching its highest level in 25 years. She attributed the performance to regulatory predictability, high safety and compliance standards and continuous service improvement, alongside targeted incentives supporting the green and digital transition without undermining competitiveness.
Plans to expand digital public administration in 2026
Cyprus has outlined a broader push to digitalise public administration in 2026 after expanding online services last year, aiming to simplify procedures for citizens and businesses and move state operations onto upgraded technological infrastructure.
What measures would you like to see prioritised to improve housing affordability in Cyprus?