Nicosia, Cyprus. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Friday that commitment to freedom of the press and freedom of expression is an obligation of every government, not a priority of any single administration. He made the remarks at the traditional Vasilopita cutting of the Union of Cyprus Journalists (Esk).
Remarks at journalists’ event
Letymbiotis wished attendees a productive and hopeful year and expressed the hope that it would be “the year our homeland is finally freed.” He said that, even if the wish is often repeated, it is the highest that the state and individuals can express at the start of a new year.
Institutional dialogue and pluralism
Referring to cooperation with the journalists’ union, Letymbiotis stressed the importance of dialogue based on shared ground, adding that differing approaches among institutions are legitimate and necessary. He said pluralism in journalism is desirable and that constructive criticism contributes to improving the work of the executive and legislative branches, adding that different views should stem from shared goals, aligned visions and unwavering hopes.
EU presidency and media challenges
Letymbiotis referred to Cyprus assuming the presidency of the Council of the European Union and highlighted challenges faced by the media sector in recent years, as well as the state’s efforts to support it. He reiterated that commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression is an obligation for every government.
Government support and new pressures
Speaking on behalf of the president, Letymbiotis said the government would continue to stand by the media and would welcome constructive proposals, criticism and evaluation. He said such engagement helps strengthen institutions, particularly as rapid technological developments and artificial intelligence pose new challenges for an already strained sector.
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