Since January, 'cat island' Cyprus has lost hundreds of thousands of its feline population to a fatal strain of coronavirus called the Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).

While the coronavirus strain is not transmittable to humans, it has wrecked havoc on the nation's cat population.

Now, to save the beloved cats that roam the island, unused coronavirus vaccination meant for human use will be made available to the furry residents of Cyprus, announced officials on Thursday.&nbsp;

<h2>Human vaccines for felines</h2>

As per an AFP report, the government has given the green light to this vaccination use after receiving a recommendation from the nations'&nbsp;agriculture ministry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-strain-of-coronavirus-turning-cyprus-into-island-of-dead-cats-can-the-virus-infect-humans-614427">Explained: Strain of coronavirus turning Cyprus into 'island of dead cats'. Can the virus infect humans?</a>

"Stocks of preparations that were used to treat human coronavirus cases and are no longer used can be made available," said Cyprus' cabinet in a statement.

It will be supplied through veterinary services in the form of anti-Covid pills.

<h2>The death toll</h2>

Animal advocates claim that an estimated 300,000 cats have been lost to the coronavirus strain since January.&nbsp;

In the southern part of the island, Dinos Ayiomamitis, head of Cats PAWS Cyprus and vice-president of Cyprus Voice for Animals, estimates that a third of the cats have succumbed to the virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-identify-248-million-year-old-lizard-like-creature-that-survived-what-dinosaurs-couldnt-623945">Scientists identify 248 million-year-old lizard-like creature that survived what dinosaurs couldn't</a>

However, the island's veterinary association argues that this number is an exaggeration and has put the number at under 10,000.

As the FIP outbreak continues to spread, animal rights organisations have raised the concern that Cyprus may soon come to be known as "the island of dead cats."&nbsp;

<h2>What is Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)?</h2>

As per the Cornell University website, Feline infectious peritonitis is a viral disease in cats caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus.

While most feline strains of coronavirus, known as feline enteric coronavirus (FeCV), are found in the gastrointestinal tract do not cause significant disease, in some cases it can become the dangerous disease known as FIPV.

As per the website, in about 10 per cent of FeCV-infected cats, the virus can mutate, infecting white blood cells and spreading throughout the cat's body. This triggers an intense inflammatory reaction, often in the abdomen, kidney, or brain, leading to the development of FIP.

Once a cat develops clinical FIP, the disease is usually progressive and almost always fatal.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Since January, 'cat island' Cyprus has lost hundreds of thousands of its feline population to a fatal strain of coronavirus called the Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).

Since January, 'cat island' Cyprus has lost hundreds of thousands of its feline population to a fatal strain of coronavirus called the Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). While the coronavirus strain is not transmittable to humans, it has wrecked havoc on the nation's cat population. Now, to save the beloved cats that roam the island, unused coronavirus vaccination meant for human use will be made available to the furry residents of Cyprus, announced officials on Thursday. Human vaccines for felines As per an AFP report, the government has given the green light to this vaccination use after receiving a recommendation from the nations' agriculture ministry. Also read | Explained: Strain of coronavirus turning Cyprus into 'island of dead cats'. Can the virus infect humans? "Stocks of preparations that were used to treat human coronavirus cases and are no longer used can be made available," said Cyprus' cabinet in a statement. It will be supplied through veterinary services in the form of anti-Covid pills. The death toll Animal advocates claim that an estimated 300,000 cats have been lost to the coronavirus strain since January. In the southern part of the island, Dinos Ayiomamitis, head of Cats PAWS Cyprus and vice-president of Cyprus Voice for Animals, estimates that a third of the cats have succumbed to the virus. Also read | Scientists identify 248 million-year-old lizard-like creature that survived what dinosaurs couldn't However, the island's veterinary association argues that this number is an exaggeration and has put the number at under 10,000. As the FIP outbreak continues to spread, animal rights organisations have raised the concern that Cyprus may soon come to be known as "the island of dead cats." What is Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)? As per the Cornell University website, Feline infectious peritonitis is a viral disease in cats caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus. While most feline strains of coronavirus, known as feline enteric coronavirus (FeCV), are found in the gastrointestinal tract do not cause significant disease, in some cases it can become the dangerous disease known as FIPV. As per the website, in about 10 per cent of FeCV-infected cats, the virus can mutate, infecting white blood cells and spreading throughout the cat's body. This triggers an intense inflammatory reaction, often in the abdomen, kidney, or brain, leading to the development of FIP. Once a cat develops clinical FIP, the disease is usually progressive and almost always fatal. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cyprus to use human Covid vaccine to save cat population from fatal coronavirus strain

A British man, David Hunter, who was found guilty of killing his terminally ill wife in Cyprus, has been released from prison after being effectively sentenced to time already served.&nbsp;

The case has drawn attention to the sensitive issue of assisted dying in Cyprus and may prompt further discussions on the topic within the country's legal system that does not allow it.&nbsp;

76-year-old Hunter, a retired miner, was accused of murdering his wife, Janice Hunter, 74, in December 2021.&nbsp;

Janice suffered from a rare type of blood cancer and experienced constant pain. She repeatedly pleaded with her husband of over 50 years, David, to help her end her life.

<h2>Verdict and sentence</h2>

On July 21, the court in Paphos cleared David Hunter of premeditated murder but found him guilty of manslaughter.&nbsp;

This distinction was crucial, as premeditated murder carries a mandatory life sentence, whereas manslaughter comes with a lesser penalty.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-roaring-success-in-tiger-conservation-grows-spotlight-with-latest-numbers-620999">Bhutan's roaring success in Tiger conservation grows spotlight with latest numbers</a>

The court concluded that his action was not premeditated but rather an "impulsive act" by a tormented man.

<h2>Discussion of Euthanasia&nbsp;in Cyprus</h2>

The verdict may carry significant weight in the future as Cyprus's parliament discusses the topic of euthanasia under medical supervision after the summer.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/song-about-going-to-prison-plays-as-trump-takes-to-stage-in-rally-620990">Song about 'going to prison' plays as Trump takes to stage in rally</a>

The country currently prohibits assisted dying, and this case might be a catalyst for potential changes in legislation.

<h2>Pleased with outcome</h2>

Michael Polak, representing the advocacy group Justice Abroad, expressed satisfaction with the court's decision.&nbsp;

He stated that the sentencing was a complex matter, as it was the first of its kind in Cyprus, involving a case where a person helped a terminally ill spouse die.

Watch | UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission

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"The sentencing exercise was not a simple one given that a case like this has never come before the courts of Cyprus before," he said adding, "We are very pleased with the sentence of the Court today, which means that David will be free immediately."

During Monday's hearing, the criminal court in Paphos sentenced David Hunter to two years in jail, which was equivalent to the time he had already spent in custody.&nbsp;

In Cyprus, a prison year typically amounts to nine calendar months, and prisoners can receive up to six days a month in remission&nbsp;for good behaviour.

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A British man, David Hunter, who was found guilty of killing his terminally ill wife in Cyprus, has been released from prison after being effectively sentenced to time already served.

A British man, David Hunter, who was found guilty of killing his terminally ill wife in Cyprus, has been released from prison after being effectively sentenced to time already served. The case has drawn attention to the sensitive issue of assisted dying in Cyprus and may prompt further discussions on the topic within the country's legal system that does not allow it. 76-year-old Hunter, a retired miner, was accused of murdering his wife, Janice Hunter, 74, in December 2021. Janice suffered from a rare type of blood cancer and experienced constant pain. She repeatedly pleaded with her husband of over 50 years, David, to help her end her life. Verdict and sentence On July 21, the court in Paphos cleared David Hunter of premeditated murder but found him guilty of manslaughter. This distinction was crucial, as premeditated murder carries a mandatory life sentence, whereas manslaughter comes with a lesser penalty. Also Read | Bhutan's roaring success in Tiger conservation grows spotlight with latest numbers The court concluded that his action was not premeditated but rather an "impulsive act" by a tormented man. Discussion of Euthanasia in Cyprus The verdict may carry significant weight in the future as Cyprus's parliament discusses the topic of euthanasia under medical supervision after the summer. Also Read | Song about 'going to prison' plays as Trump takes to stage in rally The country currently prohibits assisted dying, and this case might be a catalyst for potential changes in legislation. Pleased with outcome Michael Polak, representing the advocacy group Justice Abroad, expressed satisfaction with the court's decision. He stated that the sentencing was a complex matter, as it was the first of its kind in Cyprus, involving a case where a person helped a terminally ill spouse die. Watch | UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission × "The sentencing exercise was not a simple one given that a case like this has never come before the courts of Cyprus before," he said adding, "We are very pleased with the sentence of the Court today, which means that David will be free immediately." During Monday's hearing, the criminal court in Paphos sentenced David Hunter to two years in jail, which was equivalent to the time he had already spent in custody. In Cyprus, a prison year typically amounts to nine calendar months, and prisoners can receive up to six days a month in remission for good behaviour. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Cyprus: British man released after sentence for killing terminally ill wife

David Hunter, the man who made headlines for killing his terminally ill wife in Cyprus, has been cleared of murder charges. However, on Friday (July 21st), the Cyprus court found Hunter guilty of a lesser charge of manslaughter, which as per his daughter is "the best we could have hoped for in the circumstances."&nbsp;He will now be sentenced on 27 July.

The 75-year-old has repeatedly claimed that his wife had begged him to end her misery.

<h2>A mercy killing</h2>

74-year-old Janice Hunter, as per Sky News, died of asphyxiation at the couple's retirement home near Paphos in December 2021.&nbsp;

At the time, David admitted to killing her but denied it was a murder. He told the Cyprus court that Janice was suffering from blood cancer and had "begged him" to take her life, relieve her of the pain.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-18-year-old-mom-tries-to-hire-hitman-to-kill-her-3-year-old-son-arrested-618212">An 18-year-old mom tries to hire hitman to kill her 3-year-old son, arrested</a>

During the trial, while testifying, he reportedly broke down and said he would "never in a million years" have killed Janice unless she didn't ask him to.

"She wasn't just my wife, she was my best friend," he exclaimed.

<h2>'Best we could have hoped for'</h2>

Lesley Cawthorne, Janice and David's daughter told Sky News she was relieved that her father has been cleared of murder charges.

"It's the best we could have hoped for in the circumstances, and I really hope the judges can extend their compassion and be lenient in their sentencing."

In June 2022, she told BBC that her mother had been "in absolute agony" in her final months.

As per David, his wife had been begging him to relieve her of the pain&nbsp;for weeks.

"For five or six weeks before she died, she was asking me to help her. She was asking me more every day," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/are-you-a-true-crime-fan-woman-reveals-details-of-her-date-with-alleged-gilgo-beach-serial-killer-618177">'Are you a true crime fan': Woman reveals details of her date with alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer</a>

"In the last week, she was crying and begging me. Every day she asked me a bit more intensely to do it."

He claimed that he kept hoping she will change her mind but that he finally gave in to her pleas and covered her mouth and nose after she got "hysterical". Following this, he also tried to take his own life.

Despite opposition from the defence, the court had allowed his confession, deeming it lawfully obtained.&nbsp;

<h2>Not a pre-planned act</h2>

As per BBC, Hunter's lawyer Michael Polak, the verdict meant there was a "very good chance" his client would receive a suspended sentence and be able to return to the UK to live with his daughter.

"This wasn't a pre-planned act," said Polak, adding that his client "acted on the spur of the moment because she (Janice) was in so much pain."

According to the lawyer, judges also accepted Hunter had a "loving" and "dream" relationship with his wife of more than 50 years and "on that morning she asked him to end her life".

(With inputs from agencies)

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David Hunter, the man who made headlines for killing his terminally ill wife in Cyprus, has been cleared of murder charges. However, on Friday (July 21st), the Cyprus court found Hunter guilty of a lesser charge of manslaughter, which as per his daughter is "the best we could have hoped for in the circumstances.

David Hunter, the man who made headlines for killing his terminally ill wife in Cyprus, has been cleared of murder charges. However, on Friday (July 21st), the Cyprus court found Hunter guilty of a lesser charge of manslaughter, which as per his daughter is "the best we could have hoped for in the circumstances." He will now be sentenced on 27 July. The 75-year-old has repeatedly claimed that his wife had begged him to end her misery. A mercy killing 74-year-old Janice Hunter, as per Sky News, died of asphyxiation at the couple's retirement home near Paphos in December 2021. At the time, David admitted to killing her but denied it was a murder. He told the Cyprus court that Janice was suffering from blood cancer and had "begged him" to take her life, relieve her of the pain. Also read | An 18-year-old mom tries to hire hitman to kill her 3-year-old son, arrested During the trial, while testifying, he reportedly broke down and said he would "never in a million years" have killed Janice unless she didn't ask him to. "She wasn't just my wife, she was my best friend," he exclaimed. 'Best we could have hoped for' Lesley Cawthorne, Janice and David's daughter told Sky News she was relieved that her father has been cleared of murder charges. "It's the best we could have hoped for in the circumstances, and I really hope the judges can extend their compassion and be lenient in their sentencing." In June 2022, she told BBC that her mother had been "in absolute agony" in her final months. As per David, his wife had been begging him to relieve her of the pain for weeks. "For five or six weeks before she died, she was asking me to help her. She was asking me more every day," he said. Also read | 'Are you a true crime fan': Woman reveals details of her date with alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer "In the last week, she was crying and begging me. Every day she asked me a bit more intensely to do it." He claimed that he kept hoping she will change her mind but that he finally gave in to her pleas and covered her mouth and nose after she got "hysterical". Following this, he also tried to take his own life. Despite opposition from the defence, the court had allowed his confession, deeming it lawfully obtained. Not a pre-planned act As per BBC, Hunter's lawyer Michael Polak, the verdict meant there was a "very good chance" his client would receive a suspended sentence and be able to return to the UK to live with his daughter. "This wasn't a pre-planned act," said Polak, adding that his client "acted on the spur of the moment because she (Janice) was in so much pain." According to the lawyer, judges also accepted Hunter had a "loving" and "dream" relationship with his wife of more than 50 years and "on that morning she asked him to end her life". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Man who 'mercy' killed his terminally ill wife cleared of murder charges

Caused by a coronavirus strain, Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has claimed the lives of 300,000 cats in Cyprus since January, according to animal advocates who are pleading the government take effective measures in order to curb the epidemic that struck the island, whose history is intrinsically linked to that of felines.

Feline coronavirus strain kills 300,000 cats in Cyprus

On 'cat island' Cyprus, a strain of coronavirus is wreaking havoc on the cat population. In recent months, the disease, which is a feline strain of the coronavirus has rapidly spread across the island. The island's cats, most of which are strays and are known for their human-friendly nature, have been severely affected by the coronavirus strain known as Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

The disease has already killed a significant number of felines on the "island of cats" and as per an AFP news agency report, is spreading across cat populations in nearby Lebanon, Israel and Turkey.

Can the feline coronavirus impact humans? Should you be worried? Here's all you need to know.

<h2>What is Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)?</h2>

As per the Cornell University website, Feline infectious peritonitis is a viral disease in cats caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus.

While most feline strains of coronavirus known as feline enteric coronavirus (FeCV), are found in the gastrointestinal tract do not cause significant disease, in some cases it can become the dangerous disease known as FIPV.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bees-outgun-humans-in-making-swift-better-decisions-for-things-that-matter-to-them-study-614077">Bees outgun humans in making swift, better decisions for things that matter to them: Study</a>

As per the website, in about 10 per cent of FeCV-infected cats, the virus can mutate, infecting white blood cells and spreading throughout the cat's body. This triggers an intense inflammatory reaction, often in the abdomen, kidney, or brain, leading to the development of FIP.

Once a cat develops clinical FIP, the disease is usually progressive and almost always fatal.

<h2>Can this strain of coronavirus infect humans?</h2>

It is widely believed that the COVID-19 virus which brought the world to its knees some time ago could've originated in bats and crossed the species barrier into humans.

Last year, the World Health Organization also warned that as climate change contributes to the rapidly changing weather, animals, humans and even viruses and pathogens are changing their behaviour.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/amid-monkeypox-outbreak-who-warns-about-rising-number-of-zoonotic-diseases-heres-what-it-means-484510">Amid Monkeypox outbreak, WHO warns about rising number of 'zoonotic' diseases. Here's what it means</a>

At the time, the international health agency's emergencies director Mike Ryan, who leads WHO's response to disease outbreaks, humanitarian crises and other public health emergencies warned that diseases that normally infect animals are now infecting people due to 'ecological fragility'.

So, could the feline coronavirus jump species and infect humans? Thankfully, no.

According to Cornell's Feline Health Center, "to our knowledge, coronaviruses cannot be passed from infected cats to humans." AFP too reports that the virus is not transmissible to humans. However, as per a Cyprus based animal lover it may soon turn Cyprus into "the island of dead cats".

<h2>Is there no cure for Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)?</h2>

AFP reports that to contain the spread of FIP, two treatment options are being considered.

One is molnupiravir, an anti-Covid pill that officials say cannot be authorised for use on animals in Cyprus. The other option is GS-441524, an antiviral tablet similar to the COVID-19 treatment remdesivir, which is approved for animal use in Britain but not readily available in Cyprus due to its high cost of 3,000 to 7,000 euros (about $3,300-$7,700) per cat.

Talking to AFP, Demetris Epaminondas, vice president of the Pancyprian Veterinary Association said that efforts are underway to obtain government authorisation for molnupiravir, which would cost a more affordable 200 euros per cat.

The Cyprus agriculture ministry said that is exploring various therapeutic preparations available on the European market to address the issue.

However, in the meantime, some desperate pet owners have reportedly resorted to purchasing medicines on the black market, risking legal consequences to save their beloved animals.

Speaking to AFP on the condition on anonymity, one Cypriot said: "We bought our medicines on the black market online, or from Facebook groups. But we keep our suppliers secret so that we can continue to treat our animals."

<h2>The danger to Cyprus's cat population</h2>

The official number of FIP cases reported by the agriculture ministry in the southern part of the island stands at 107. However, animal advocates claim that the actual number of cats dying from the disease is much higher, with an estimated 300,000 cats lost since January.

The contagious nature of FIP has made it challenging to diagnose and document, especially with the large population of stray cats on the island. Experts estimate that the cat population in Cyprus is equal to or even exceeds the human population of just over one million. In the southern part of the island, Dinos Ayiomamitis, head of Cats PAWS Cyprus and vice-president of Cyprus Voice for Animals, estimates that a third of the cats have succumbed to the virus.

As the FIP outbreak continues to spread, there are concerns that Cyprus may become known as "the island of dead cats." Animal advocates and veterinarians are urging swift action to address the crisis and save the island's beloved feline population. 
 
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On 'cat island' Cyprus, a strain of coronavirus is wreaking havoc on the cat population. In recent months, the disease, which is a feline strain of the coronavirus has rapidly spread across the island.

On 'cat island' Cyprus, a strain of coronavirus is wreaking havoc on the cat population. In recent months, the disease, which is a feline strain of the coronavirus has rapidly spread across the island. The island's cats, most of which are strays and are known for their human-friendly nature, have been severely affected by the coronavirus strain known as Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). The disease has already killed a significant number of felines on the "island of cats" and as per an AFP news agency report, is spreading across cat populations in nearby Lebanon, Israel and Turkey. Can the feline coronavirus impact humans? Should you be worried? Here's all you need to know. What is Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)? As per the Cornell University website, Feline infectious peritonitis is a viral disease in cats caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus. While most feline strains of coronavirus known as feline enteric coronavirus (FeCV), are found in the gastrointestinal tract do not cause significant disease, in some cases it can become the dangerous disease known as FIPV. Also read | Bees outgun humans in making swift, better decisions for things that matter to them: Study As per the website, in about 10 per cent of FeCV-infected cats, the virus can mutate, infecting white blood cells and spreading throughout the cat's body. This triggers an intense inflammatory reaction, often in the abdomen, kidney, or brain, leading to the development of FIP. Once a cat develops clinical FIP, the disease is usually progressive and almost always fatal. Can this strain of coronavirus infect humans? It is widely believed that the COVID-19 virus which brought the world to its knees some time ago could've originated in bats and crossed the species barrier into humans. Last year, the World Health Organization also warned that as climate change contributes to the rapidly changing weather, animals, humans and even viruses and pathogens are changing their behaviour. Also read | Amid Monkeypox outbreak, WHO warns about rising number of 'zoonotic' diseases. Here's what it means At the time, the international health agency's emergencies director Mike Ryan, who leads WHO's response to disease outbreaks, humanitarian crises and other public health emergencies warned that diseases that normally infect animals are now infecting people due to 'ecological fragility'. So, could the feline coronavirus jump species and infect humans? Thankfully, no. According to Cornell's Feline Health Center, "to our knowledge, coronaviruses cannot be passed from infected cats to humans." AFP too reports that the virus is not transmissible to humans. However, as per a Cyprus based animal lover it may soon turn Cyprus into "the island of dead cats". Is there no cure for Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)? AFP reports that to contain the spread of FIP, two treatment options are being considered. One is molnupiravir, an anti-Covid pill that officials say cannot be authorised for use on animals in Cyprus. The other option is GS-441524, an antiviral tablet similar to the COVID-19 treatment remdesivir, which is approved for animal use in Britain but not readily available in Cyprus due to its high cost of 3,000 to 7,000 euros (about $3,300-$7,700) per cat. Talking to AFP, Demetris Epaminondas, vice president of the Pancyprian Veterinary Association said that efforts are underway to obtain government authorisation for molnupiravir, which would cost a more affordable 200 euros per cat. The Cyprus agriculture ministry said that is exploring various therapeutic preparations available on the European market to address the issue. However, in the meantime, some desperate pet owners have reportedly resorted to purchasing medicines on the black market, risking legal consequences to save their beloved animals. Speaking to AFP on the condition on anonymity, one Cypriot said: "We bought our medicines on the black market online, or from Facebook groups. But we keep our suppliers secret so that we can continue to treat our animals." The danger to Cyprus's cat population The official number of FIP cases reported by the agriculture ministry in the southern part of the island stands at 107. However, animal advocates claim that the actual number of cats dying from the disease is much higher, with an estimated 300,000 cats lost since January. The contagious nature of FIP has made it challenging to diagnose and document, especially with the large population of stray cats on the island. Experts estimate that the cat population in Cyprus is equal to or even exceeds the human population of just over one million. In the southern part of the island, Dinos Ayiomamitis, head of Cats PAWS Cyprus and vice-president of Cyprus Voice for Animals, estimates that a third of the cats have succumbed to the virus. As the FIP outbreak continues to spread, there are concerns that Cyprus may become known as "the island of dead cats." Animal advocates and veterinarians are urging swift action to address the crisis and save the island's beloved feline population. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: Strain of coronavirus turning Cyprus into 'island of dead cats'. Can the virus infect humans?

Israel's Mossad spy agency released a statement on Thursday saying that it "apprehended" an Iranian plotting to kill an Israeli in Cyprus, with his interrogation "on Iranian soil" leading to arrests by Cypriot security forces.

The statement came after the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday appreciated "the thwarting of the Iranian terrorist attack in Cyprus against Israeli targets," without providing much details.

Cypriot authorities declined to comment on the matter, however, local media, mentioning unidentified sources, reported a foiled plan to attack Israeli or Jewish targets by suspects that were operating from a breakaway statelet, recognised only by Turkey, in the north of the divided Mediterranean island.

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Breaking: In a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil, the Mossad apprehended the head of a terror cell which planned on attacking Israelis in Cyprus, thwarting the attack. 
 
Senior Mossad official: "We will reach whoever foments terrorism against Jews and Israelis around the… <a href="https://t.co/UKZDVQNe11">pic.twitter.com/UKZDVQNe11</a>
— Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1674464357453840384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Mossad said an Iranian man named Yusef Shahabazi Abbasalilu was "apprehended" in "a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil".

<h2>Iranian man confesses to 'receiving weapons'</h2>

According to the Israeli agency, during cross-questioning Abbasalilu confessed to having "received detailed instructions and weapons from senior Revolutionary Guards personnel in Iran" regarding an Israeli businessman he was to assassinate in Cyprus.

As per AFP reports, a video that was circulated by the Mossad, which the news agency could not verify, showed a man, called Abbasalilu, detailing his arrival in Cyprus and making preparations to kill an Israeli with the help of 'Pakistanis'&nbsp;there.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-national-intelligence-claims-to-have-exposed-mossad-ring-working-against-iran-595614">Turkey’s intelligence claims to have exposed Mossad ring working against Iran</a>

The man then recalls being ordered by his Iranian handlers to return to Iran since the Cypriot police were on his tail.

"In the wake of the information that he gave to investigators, the cell was dismantled in an operation by the Cypriot security services," the Mossad said, noting "a series of arrests in Cyprus last week".

The Israeli agency said it had exposed part of "a continuing effort to carry out terrorist attacks and harm Israelis and Jews around the world".

Earlier this month, Netanyahu said that the vast majority of Israel's "security problems stem from Iran and its proxies".

Israel also condemned its arch-foe for seeking to obtain nuclear arms. Iran denies the claim.

While speaking at a military ceremony on Thursday, Netanyahu said that Israel would not be bound by any international agreement of Tehran's nuclear programme, adding: "We will retain our right and duty to defend ourselves, by ourselves, from any threat."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Israel's Mossad spy agency released a statement on Thursday saying that it "apprehended" an Iranian plotting to kill an Israeli in Cyprus, with his interrogation "on Iranian soil" leading to arrests by Cypriot security forces.

Israel's Mossad spy agency released a statement on Thursday saying that it "apprehended" an Iranian plotting to kill an Israeli in Cyprus, with his interrogation "on Iranian soil" leading to arrests by Cypriot security forces. The statement came after the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday appreciated "the thwarting of the Iranian terrorist attack in Cyprus against Israeli targets," without providing much details. Cypriot authorities declined to comment on the matter, however, local media, mentioning unidentified sources, reported a foiled plan to attack Israeli or Jewish targets by suspects that were operating from a breakaway statelet, recognised only by Turkey, in the north of the divided Mediterranean island. Breaking: In a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil, the Mossad apprehended the head of a terror cell which planned on attacking Israelis in Cyprus, thwarting the attack. Senior Mossad official: "We will reach whoever foments terrorism against Jews and Israelis around the… pic.twitter.com/UKZDVQNe11 — Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) June 29, 2023 × The Mossad said an Iranian man named Yusef Shahabazi Abbasalilu was "apprehended" in "a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil". Iranian man confesses to 'receiving weapons' According to the Israeli agency, during cross-questioning Abbasalilu confessed to having "received detailed instructions and weapons from senior Revolutionary Guards personnel in Iran" regarding an Israeli businessman he was to assassinate in Cyprus. As per AFP reports, a video that was circulated by the Mossad, which the news agency could not verify, showed a man, called Abbasalilu, detailing his arrival in Cyprus and making preparations to kill an Israeli with the help of 'Pakistanis' there. Also read: Turkey’s intelligence claims to have exposed Mossad ring working against Iran The man then recalls being ordered by his Iranian handlers to return to Iran since the Cypriot police were on his tail. "In the wake of the information that he gave to investigators, the cell was dismantled in an operation by the Cypriot security services," the Mossad said, noting "a series of arrests in Cyprus last week". The Israeli agency said it had exposed part of "a continuing effort to carry out terrorist attacks and harm Israelis and Jews around the world". Earlier this month, Netanyahu said that the vast majority of Israel's "security problems stem from Iran and its proxies". Israel also condemned its arch-foe for seeking to obtain nuclear arms. Iran denies the claim. While speaking at a military ceremony on Thursday, Netanyahu said that Israel would not be bound by any international agreement of Tehran's nuclear programme, adding: "We will retain our right and duty to defend ourselves, by ourselves, from any threat." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel's spy agency Mossad nabs man in Iran for planning attack in Cyprus

High school students and their tutors in Cyprus have developed a prototype robot, called AInstein. This robot is powered with ChatGPT artificial intelligence technology, which aims to harness and improve teaching experiences in the classroom.

Robot with ChatGPT shakes up Cyprus classrooms

On the rugged shoreline of Cyprus' north coast, seven whales mysteriously washed up dead. Alyson Le Grange tells you about what is being done to understand such strandings.

The mystery behind Whale strandings on shores of Cyprus

Nikos Christodoulides was declared the victor of the Sunday (February 12) presidential election in Cyprus,&nbsp;following a second and final round of voting. He pledged to form a government of national unity with the aim of resuming peace negotiations with the estranged Turkish Cypriots. Christodoulides, 49, received 51.9 per cent&nbsp;of the vote, according to the official figures, while Andreas Mavroyiannis, 66, received 48.1 per cent.&nbsp;

The vote on Sunday put career diplomat Mavroyiannis, a former main negotiator in the peace negotiations with Turkish Cypriots, against former foreign minister Christodoulides. Mavroyiannis was also a former permanent representative of Cyprus to the UN.

Right-of-centre and centre-leaning parties supported Christodoulides' independent campaign.

As the government's spokesperson or until early 2022 as foreign minister, Christodoulides has regularly been at the forefront during the previous ten years, often presenting the image of a youthful, dynamic politician with many ideas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mohammad-shahabuddin-chuppu-poised-to-become-the-next-president-of-bangladesh-561180">Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu poised to become the next president of Bangladesh</a>

Mavroyiannis congratulated Christodoulides and conceded defeat.&nbsp;

"Tonight is the end of a long but nice journey ... I want to thank from the bottom of my soul all those who travelled with me," he said.

The issues that await the next president vary from the fallout from corruption scandals and a spike in migration that has left authorities dealing with thousands of asylum applications to the deadlock in reunification talks with Turkish Cypriots on the ethnically divided island and labour disputes amid runaway inflation.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION in ground zero Syria: Miraculous tales of survival continue

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Cyprus hold a presidential election every five years.&nbsp;Since 2013, Nicos Anastasiades, a conservative leader of the governing DISY party, has been in office after being re-elected in 2018. He isn't allowed to run for a third term by law.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nikos Christodoulides was declared the victor of the Sunday (February 12) presidential election in Cyprus, following a second and final round of voting. He pledged to form a government of national unity with the aim of resuming peace negotiations with the estranged Turkish Cypriots.

Nikos Christodoulides was declared the victor of the Sunday (February 12) presidential election in Cyprus, following a second and final round of voting. He pledged to form a government of national unity with the aim of resuming peace negotiations with the estranged Turkish Cypriots. Christodoulides, 49, received 51.9 per cent of the vote, according to the official figures, while Andreas Mavroyiannis, 66, received 48.1 per cent. The vote on Sunday put career diplomat Mavroyiannis, a former main negotiator in the peace negotiations with Turkish Cypriots, against former foreign minister Christodoulides. Mavroyiannis was also a former permanent representative of Cyprus to the UN. Right-of-centre and centre-leaning parties supported Christodoulides' independent campaign. As the government's spokesperson or until early 2022 as foreign minister, Christodoulides has regularly been at the forefront during the previous ten years, often presenting the image of a youthful, dynamic politician with many ideas. Also read | Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu poised to become the next president of Bangladesh Mavroyiannis congratulated Christodoulides and conceded defeat. "Tonight is the end of a long but nice journey ... I want to thank from the bottom of my soul all those who travelled with me," he said. The issues that await the next president vary from the fallout from corruption scandals and a spike in migration that has left authorities dealing with thousands of asylum applications to the deadlock in reunification talks with Turkish Cypriots on the ethnically divided island and labour disputes amid runaway inflation. Also watch | WION in ground zero Syria: Miraculous tales of survival continue Cyprus hold a presidential election every five years. Since 2013, Nicos Anastasiades, a conservative leader of the governing DISY party, has been in office after being re-elected in 2018. He isn't allowed to run for a third term by law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Cyprus: Ex-foreign minister wins presidential election, becomes youngest president of the country

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be on a three-day visit to Cyprus from Thursday, during which he will hold talks with his Cypriot counterpart Ioannis Kasoulides as both sides firm up ties on a range of issues from trade to connectivity. This is the first ever visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Cyprus in more than a decade, the last being of Pranab Mukherjee in May 2007.

The visit comes in a year when India, Cyprus mark 60 years of diplomatic ties and will see discussions on "economic cooperation of the two countries, EU-India relations.." and "Turkey's provocative actions against Cyprus" according to a release by Cyprus foreign ministry. Historically, Turkiye and Cyprus relationship remains strained over Ankara's backing of Northern Cyprus as a separate state and other historical issues. Last year, India was quick to support Cyprus after Turkiye was seen violating UNSC resolutions by opening the ghost town of Varosha.

Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey. &nbsp;The invasion led to the division of the country into two-- Republic of Cyprus and the northern--Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) recognized only by Ankara

Both the foreign ministers will hold talks on Thursday and sign Memorandum of Understanding on defense and military cooperation and a pact to include Cyprus into the India Headquartered International Solar Alliance. They will also sign a Declaration of Intent to start negotiations on a pact on immigration and mobility. Pact on mobility allows easier movement of people and India has signed many such pact including with Germany earlier this month.

This will be the 3rd meeting between Minister Jaishankar and his counterpart minister Ioannis. Both earlier met on the sidelines of CHOGM 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda in June this year and at the sidelines of 77th UNGA in New York in September. Connectivity will be another key focus even as Cyprus readout pointed that "prospect of India's participation in a regional mechanism with countries of the region" will be discussed. Remember, Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf.

The two Ministers will address the Cyprus-India business forum that will take place in Limassol. EAM's other engagements include an interaction with the Indian Diaspora and call on with President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou.&nbsp;Cyprus supports India on crucial issues including India’s bid for UNSC, the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, the NSG and the IAEA. The Mediterranean country backed India after Pokhran-II tests in 1998, removal of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

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India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be on a three-day visit to Cyprus from Thursday, during which he will hold talks with his Cypriot counterpart Ioannis Kasoulides as both sides firm up ties on a range of issues from trade to connectivity.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be on a three-day visit to Cyprus from Thursday, during which he will hold talks with his Cypriot counterpart Ioannis Kasoulides as both sides firm up ties on a range of issues from trade to connectivity. This is the first ever visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Cyprus in more than a decade, the last being of Pranab Mukherjee in May 2007. The visit comes in a year when India, Cyprus mark 60 years of diplomatic ties and will see discussions on "economic cooperation of the two countries, EU-India relations.." and "Turkey's provocative actions against Cyprus" according to a release by Cyprus foreign ministry. Historically, Turkiye and Cyprus relationship remains strained over Ankara's backing of Northern Cyprus as a separate state and other historical issues. Last year, India was quick to support Cyprus after Turkiye was seen violating UNSC resolutions by opening the ghost town of Varosha. Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey. The invasion led to the division of the country into two-- Republic of Cyprus and the northern--Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) recognized only by Ankara Both the foreign ministers will hold talks on Thursday and sign Memorandum of Understanding on defense and military cooperation and a pact to include Cyprus into the India Headquartered International Solar Alliance. They will also sign a Declaration of Intent to start negotiations on a pact on immigration and mobility. Pact on mobility allows easier movement of people and India has signed many such pact including with Germany earlier this month. This will be the 3rd meeting between Minister Jaishankar and his counterpart minister Ioannis. Both earlier met on the sidelines of CHOGM 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda in June this year and at the sidelines of 77th UNGA in New York in September. Connectivity will be another key focus even as Cyprus readout pointed that "prospect of India's participation in a regional mechanism with countries of the region" will be discussed. Remember, Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf. The two Ministers will address the Cyprus-India business forum that will take place in Limassol. EAM's other engagements include an interaction with the Indian Diaspora and call on with President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou. Cyprus supports India on crucial issues including India’s bid for UNSC, the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, the NSG and the IAEA. The Mediterranean country backed India after Pokhran-II tests in 1998, removal of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Türkiye, ISA & military MoU on agenda during India, Cyprus Foreign Minister talks

Amid the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, the United Kingdom has been supporting Volodymyr Zelensky and his troops with arms and ammunition. While UK's military aid to Ukraine has reached $2.8 billion so far, a rather secret military route appears to have opened up to allegedly supply arms, and it involves Pakistan. 
 
Curiously enough, the reports in this regard came out even as Pakistan Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa visited UK, as part of a global trip that also includes stops at Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. He is also expected to visit the US.

A Twitter handle by the name of 'The Intel Consortium' recently <a href="https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1559420896456097792.html">published </a>a tweet thread using open source intelligence, where it was revealed that Britain’s Royal Air Force (RAF) was supplying some kind of military equipment to the war-torn country via a running air bridge. The original tweet appears to have disappeared, but screenshots and tweet thread are still available online.

The running air bridge has three points which RAF's C-17A Globemaster III (call sign: ZZ173) has been using to make daily trips. According to the thread, the Globemaster is using the Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, Pakistan to Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport in Romania via RAF base Akrotiri in Cyprus.

According to data sourced from commercially available flight tracking software, the aircraft made daily trips on this route from August 6 to August 15, till the report was published.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that while entering Pakistan, the Globemaster avoided Iran and Afghanistan airspace and used the air route through Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Oman.&nbsp;

Moreover, the military aircraft spent an average of one hour and 30 minutes at the Romanian Airport, about three-four hours in Cyprus and almost 12-20 hours at the Pakistani garrison city of Rawalpindi.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-us-now-britain-to-send-multiple-launch-rocket-systems-to-ukraine-485401">After US, now Britain to send multiple-launch rocket systems to Ukraine</a>

However, no official word has been released by the authorities of the three countries regarding this rather secretive air route. It is also not clear what kind of equipment the cargo plane was carrying.

The Twitter account, however, had its own theory regarding the military piece of equipment being ferried.&nbsp;

“Ukrainian war planners have said the best aid they can get is 155mm artillery ammunition. The US recently sent 75,000 rounds of it to Ukraine. Guess who else makes that ammunition: Pakistan Ordinance Factory,” 'the Intel Consortium said in a tweet.

“Pakistan also has over 320 Ukrainian T-80UD tanks in service, and a completely developed ecosystem of their maintenance, operation, ammunition, and spare parts,” the account further claimed.

The account noted that the Globemaster can carry C-17A can carry 77,500 kilogrammes of cargo in one trip and so far, with six round trips, it had carried almost 465,000 kilogrammes of 'something' to Romania and beyond.&nbsp;

Officially, the UK has sent&nbsp;three M270 multiple-launch rocket systems with M31A1 precision munitions,&nbsp;5,000&nbsp;light anti-tank weapons, hundreds of&nbsp;Brimstone missiles,&nbsp;120 armoured vehicles,&nbsp;heavy lift T-150 unmanned aerial vehicle (drones),&nbsp;six air defence systems, including Starstreak missiles and&nbsp;six Stormer vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, the United Kingdom has been supporting Volodymyr Zelensky and his troops with arms and ammunition. While UK's military aid to Ukraine has reached $2.

Amid the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, the United Kingdom has been supporting Volodymyr Zelensky and his troops with arms and ammunition. While UK's military aid to Ukraine has reached $2.8 billion so far, a rather secret military route appears to have opened up to allegedly supply arms, and it involves Pakistan. Curiously enough, the reports in this regard came out even as Pakistan Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa visited UK, as part of a global trip that also includes stops at Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. He is also expected to visit the US. A Twitter handle by the name of 'The Intel Consortium' recently published a tweet thread using open source intelligence, where it was revealed that Britain’s Royal Air Force (RAF) was supplying some kind of military equipment to the war-torn country via a running air bridge. The original tweet appears to have disappeared, but screenshots and tweet thread are still available online. The running air bridge has three points which RAF's C-17A Globemaster III (call sign: ZZ173) has been using to make daily trips. According to the thread, the Globemaster is using the Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, Pakistan to Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport in Romania via RAF base Akrotiri in Cyprus. According to data sourced from commercially available flight tracking software, the aircraft made daily trips on this route from August 6 to August 15, till the report was published. It is pertinent to note that while entering Pakistan, the Globemaster avoided Iran and Afghanistan airspace and used the air route through Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Oman. Moreover, the military aircraft spent an average of one hour and 30 minutes at the Romanian Airport, about three-four hours in Cyprus and almost 12-20 hours at the Pakistani garrison city of Rawalpindi. Read more: After US, now Britain to send multiple-launch rocket systems to Ukraine However, no official word has been released by the authorities of the three countries regarding this rather secretive air route. It is also not clear what kind of equipment the cargo plane was carrying. The Twitter account, however, had its own theory regarding the military piece of equipment being ferried. “Ukrainian war planners have said the best aid they can get is 155mm artillery ammunition. The US recently sent 75,000 rounds of it to Ukraine. Guess who else makes that ammunition: Pakistan Ordinance Factory,” 'the Intel Consortium said in a tweet. “Pakistan also has over 320 Ukrainian T-80UD tanks in service, and a completely developed ecosystem of their maintenance, operation, ammunition, and spare parts,” the account further claimed. The account noted that the Globemaster can carry C-17A can carry 77,500 kilogrammes of cargo in one trip and so far, with six round trips, it had carried almost 465,000 kilogrammes of 'something' to Romania and beyond. Officially, the UK has sent three M270 multiple-launch rocket systems with M31A1 precision munitions, 5,000 light anti-tank weapons, hundreds of Brimstone missiles, 120 armoured vehicles, heavy lift T-150 unmanned aerial vehicle (drones), six air defence systems, including Starstreak missiles and six Stormer vehicles to Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan may be helping UK ferry military equipment to Ukraine via Cyprus, Romania

Following two years of the pandemic, Tourist numbers have rebounded in Cyprus. Bars in the resort town are hosting foam dance parties.

Tourist numbers rebound in Cyprus following two years of the pandemic

Israel and UK military bases helped fight wildfire in the island country of Cyprus. As per reports, 2,600 acres of land have been affected from the fire so far.

Israel & UK military bases help fight wildfire in the island country of Cyprus

Cyprus has discovered a new variant called 'Deltacron' which is a combination of Delta & Omicron. The global case tally meanwhile has breached the 307 million mark. India alone added 179,000+ cases on Sunday. Palki Sharma gets you a detailed report.

Gravitas: Amid Omicron surge, Deltacron discovered in Cyprus

Scientists in Cyprus have detected a new variant of coronavirus dubbed as 'Deltacron'- combining both the Delta and Omicron variants.

As per reports, 25 cases have been detected so far. Out of 25, 11 patients were hospitalised while the remaining were from the general public.&nbsp;

Leondios Kostrikis, professor of biological sciences at the University of Cyprus and head of the Laboratory of Biotechnology and Molecular Virology during an interview said, "There are currently omicron and delta co-infections and we found this strain that is a combination of these two."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-ray-of-light-amid-pandemic-here-is-what-an-expert-says-443406">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron 'ray of light' amid pandemic? Here is what an expert says</a>

As per statistical analysis, the relative frequency of the variant is higher among patients hospitalised due to Covid-19.

The sequences of the 25 deltacron cases were sent to GISAID on January 7. GISAID is the international database that tracks changes in the virus.

The newly discovered variant is said to have Omicron-like genetic signatures within the Delta genomes. Also, as per experts, it is not a cause of concern yet.&nbsp;

The experts are yet to find out if the strain is more pathological, contagious and if it will prevail at all.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists in Cyprus have detected a new variant of coronavirus dubbed as 'Deltacron'- combining both the Delta and Omicron variants. As per reports, 25 cases have been detected so far.

Scientists in Cyprus have detected a new variant of coronavirus dubbed as 'Deltacron'- combining both the Delta and Omicron variants. As per reports, 25 cases have been detected so far. Out of 25, 11 patients were hospitalised while the remaining were from the general public. Leondios Kostrikis, professor of biological sciences at the University of Cyprus and head of the Laboratory of Biotechnology and Molecular Virology during an interview said, "There are currently omicron and delta co-infections and we found this strain that is a combination of these two." Also read | Omicron 'ray of light' amid pandemic? Here is what an expert says As per statistical analysis, the relative frequency of the variant is higher among patients hospitalised due to Covid-19. The sequences of the 25 deltacron cases were sent to GISAID on January 7. GISAID is the international database that tracks changes in the virus. The newly discovered variant is said to have Omicron-like genetic signatures within the Delta genomes. Also, as per experts, it is not a cause of concern yet. The experts are yet to find out if the strain is more pathological, contagious and if it will prevail at all. (With inputs from agencies)

New Covid variant called 'Deltacron' detected in Cyprus; 25 cases so far

Dubbed as 'Deltacron,' scientists in Cyprus have detected a strain of Coronavirus that they say combines both Delta and Omicron. As per reports 25 cases of Deltacron have been detected so far.

Scientists in Cyprus detect new strain of COVID combining both Delta, Omicron variants

Pope Francis arrived in Cyprus on Thursday, beginning a five-day trip that would also bring him to Greece and its island of Lesbos, where in 2016 he made a defining visit to refugees living in horrid conditions and brought some back to Rome on his plane.

The trip, the 35th abroad for Francis, who turns 85 later this month, reflects his determination to maintain a global focus on the plight of migrants and lands torn by strife, despite the world’s preoccupation this week with the omicron variant of the coronavirus.

His journey will include other hallmarks of the Francis papacy, including encouraging tiny Catholic minorities and reaching out to other religious leaders, this time in the Greek Orthodox Church. He is expected to help relocate to Italy some migrants in Cyprus — and possibly Lesbos again — this time.

“Europe cannot ignore the Mediterranean Sea that hosted the spread of the Gospel and the development of great civilizations,” Francis said in a video message before the trip. He lamented the sea becoming a “great cemetery” and said that in the age of the pandemic and climate change, it was imperative to “sail together, and not to split up by going our separate ways.”

The trip is the third this year for the pope, who is believed to have received a booster shot, though that has not been confirmed. He made a historic pilgrimage to Iraq in March and a politically symbolic trip to Hungary and Slovakia in September during which he appeared to speak out against nationalism.

This trip, which refocuses attention on the priorities of his pontificate, including opening borders and welcoming the destitute, comes as migrants are again facing awful conditions and tragic deaths, including at the Belarus-Poland border and in the English Channel, where at least 27 people died last week. But it also comes at an unpredictable and deeply concerning phase of the pandemic as countries around the world shut their borders to try to protect their populations from a variant whose effects are still very much unknown.

“The recommendation in general is prudence,” Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesperson, said when asked about coronavirus precautions and worries that the new variant would eclipse the main themes of the trip.

Francis is the second pope, after his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, to visit Cyprus, and Thursday he will meet with local Catholic priests and the president and diplomats in Nicosia, the capital. On Friday, he will visit with the Orthodox archbishop and celebrate a holy Mass at an outdoor stadium.

He will end the day with a prayer at a parish church with migrants, and the Vatican has arranged to have about 50 migrants relocated to Italy.

Francis will stay at a Franciscan monastery in Nicosia — the divided capital of Cyprus. The medieval city is separated by a U.N.-protected buffer zone.

He will then spend Saturday reaching out to Orthodox leaders and meeting with officials before travelling on Sunday to Lesbos, which Bruni said had “become a symbolic place.”

Bruni said that the Cyprus visit would allow Francis to underline key themes of his pontificate, as it had over the centuries been “Europe’s outermost border to the Middle East, a laboratory of coexistence and a land of encounter with orthodoxy.”

Still, Cyprus is far from a tranquil place.

With Turkey to the north, Syria to the East, Israel to the South and Greece to the West, Cyprus is a small, stingray-shaped island between worlds and a crossroads for cultures and migrations.

The country has effectively been partitioned since 1974, with its Greek and Turkish communities — and its capital, Nicosia — separated by a buffer zone known as the Green Line.

The internationally recognized government of the Republic of Cyprus controls only the southern two-thirds of it, and the remaining third is the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey.

Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004, but the island is still divided along ethnic lines. Unification efforts start and stop periodically, most recently in 2017, but the talks broke down over Turkey’s refusal to remove its troops. They led to Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, declaring, “Turkey will be in Cyprus forever,” and rejecting a unified federation.

A recent uptick in migrant arrivals has intensified hard-right, nationalist sentiment and the resistance of the Republic of Cyprus government, which has appealed to the European Union for permission to stop processing asylum requests. But the spike in numbers, and suspicions that Turkey is funnelling the migrants to the border, have deepened the animosity between the north and the south.

Nearly 80% of the island’s population is Orthodox Christian, and about 20% is Sunni Muslim. There is only a tiny population of Catholics, about 38,000, who mostly fall under the jurisdiction of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and who trace their roots to the Crusades. That is less than the estimated number of Turkish troops based in the north.

Rev. Georgios Armand Houry, a Cypriot priest, said that many Catholics were hoping that the pope would help members of the faith “return home” to uninhabited towns after displacement earlier during the conflict.

During Benedict’s 2010 trip, Archbishop Chrysostomos II, the leader of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus, accused Turkey of an “obscure plan” to take over the entire island and called for the pope’s “active cooperation” in resolving the long-standing dispute.

The north continues to use the Turkish lira and has an economy closely tied to the Turkish mainland.

In recent years, tensions have risen after the discovery of rich natural gas deposits under the eastern Mediterranean. Greece, with its islands scattered in the area, claims that it has sole drilling rights. The potential for enormous wealth from the deposits has created a profit-sharing unity among surrounding nations, including Greece, Israel, Israel, Egypt, Italy and Jordan.

But Turkey has used northern Cyprus as its toehold, sending drilling ships, accompanied by warships, to explore for gas off Cyprus; that, in turn, has prompted retribution by the European Union against Turkish companies. The prospect of a clash between Greece and Turkey, two NATO allies with centuries of bad blood, has proved worrying.

“It’s a wound that has been open for some time,” Bruni said. “The Holy See undoubtedly supports every effort to strengthen bilateral talks, which are the only solution for the island and its people.” He suggested Francis would indirectly take those issues on, saying that he would touch on environmental themes by speaking of the horrible fires that burned Greece’s forests this summer but also “the exploitation of the seabed.”

Cyprus is an ancient Christian land. Tradition holds that St. Paul arrived here around A.D. 46 to preach the Gospel with Barnabas, a Cypriot and a saint.

Francis, in his video message, said he would come “in the footsteps of the first great missionaries,” and for the chance “to drink from the ancient wellsprings of Europe: Cyprus, the outpost of the Holy Land on the continent; Greece, the home of classical culture.”

Pope Francis arrived in Cyprus on Thursday, beginning a five-day trip that would also bring him to Greece and its island of Lesbos, where in 2016 he made a defining visit to refugees living in horrid conditions and brought some back to Rome on his plane.

Pope Francis arrived in Cyprus on Thursday, beginning a five-day trip that would also bring him to Greece and its island of Lesbos, where in 2016 he made a defining visit to refugees living in horrid conditions and brought some back to Rome on his plane. The trip, the 35th abroad for Francis, who turns 85 later this month, reflects his determination to maintain a global focus on the plight of migrants and lands torn by strife, despite the world’s preoccupation this week with the omicron variant of the coronavirus. His journey will include other hallmarks of the Francis papacy, including encouraging tiny Catholic minorities and reaching out to other religious leaders, this time in the Greek Orthodox Church. He is expected to help relocate to Italy some migrants in Cyprus — and possibly Lesbos again — this time. “Europe cannot ignore the Mediterranean Sea that hosted the spread of the Gospel and the development of great civilizations,” Francis said in a video message before the trip. He lamented the sea becoming a “great cemetery” and said that in the age of the pandemic and climate change, it was imperative to “sail together, and not to split up by going our separate ways.” The trip is the third this year for the pope, who is believed to have received a booster shot, though that has not been confirmed. He made a historic pilgrimage to Iraq in March and a politically symbolic trip to Hungary and Slovakia in September during which he appeared to speak out against nationalism. This trip, which refocuses attention on the priorities of his pontificate, including opening borders and welcoming the destitute, comes as migrants are again facing awful conditions and tragic deaths, including at the Belarus-Poland border and in the English Channel, where at least 27 people died last week. But it also comes at an unpredictable and deeply concerning phase of the pandemic as countries around the world shut their borders to try to protect their populations from a variant whose effects are still very much unknown. “The recommendation in general is prudence,” Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesperson, said when asked about coronavirus precautions and worries that the new variant would eclipse the main themes of the trip. Francis is the second pope, after his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, to visit Cyprus, and Thursday he will meet with local Catholic priests and the president and diplomats in Nicosia, the capital. On Friday, he will visit with the Orthodox archbishop and celebrate a holy Mass at an outdoor stadium. He will end the day with a prayer at a parish church with migrants, and the Vatican has arranged to have about 50 migrants relocated to Italy. Francis will stay at a Franciscan monastery in Nicosia — the divided capital of Cyprus. The medieval city is separated by a U.N.-protected buffer zone. He will then spend Saturday reaching out to Orthodox leaders and meeting with officials before travelling on Sunday to Lesbos, which Bruni said had “become a symbolic place.” Bruni said that the Cyprus visit would allow Francis to underline key themes of his pontificate, as it had over the centuries been “Europe’s outermost border to the Middle East, a laboratory of coexistence and a land of encounter with orthodoxy.” Still, Cyprus is far from a tranquil place. With Turkey to the north, Syria to the East, Israel to the South and Greece to the West, Cyprus is a small, stingray-shaped island between worlds and a crossroads for cultures and migrations. The country has effectively been partitioned since 1974, with its Greek and Turkish communities — and its capital, Nicosia — separated by a buffer zone known as the Green Line. The internationally recognized government of the Republic of Cyprus controls only the southern two-thirds of it, and the remaining third is the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey. Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004, but the island is still divided along ethnic lines. Unification efforts start and stop periodically, most recently in 2017, but the talks broke down over Turkey’s refusal to remove its troops. They led to Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, declaring, “Turkey will be in Cyprus forever,” and rejecting a unified federation. A recent uptick in migrant arrivals has intensified hard-right, nationalist sentiment and the resistance of the Republic of Cyprus government, which has appealed to the European Union for permission to stop processing asylum requests. But the spike in numbers, and suspicions that Turkey is funnelling the migrants to the border, have deepened the animosity between the north and the south. Nearly 80% of the island’s population is Orthodox Christian, and about 20% is Sunni Muslim. There is only a tiny population of Catholics, about 38,000, who mostly fall under the jurisdiction of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and who trace their roots to the Crusades. That is less than the estimated number of Turkish troops based in the north. Rev. Georgios Armand Houry, a Cypriot priest, said that many Catholics were hoping that the pope would help members of the faith “return home” to uninhabited towns after displacement earlier during the conflict. During Benedict’s 2010 trip, Archbishop Chrysostomos II, the leader of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus, accused Turkey of an “obscure plan” to take over the entire island and called for the pope’s “active cooperation” in resolving the long-standing dispute. The north continues to use the Turkish lira and has an economy closely tied to the Turkish mainland. In recent years, tensions have risen after the discovery of rich natural gas deposits under the eastern Mediterranean. Greece, with its islands scattered in the area, claims that it has sole drilling rights. The potential for enormous wealth from the deposits has created a profit-sharing unity among surrounding nations, including Greece, Israel, Israel, Egypt, Italy and Jordan. But Turkey has used northern Cyprus as its toehold, sending drilling ships, accompanied by warships, to explore for gas off Cyprus; that, in turn, has prompted retribution by the European Union against Turkish companies. The prospect of a clash between Greece and Turkey, two NATO allies with centuries of bad blood, has proved worrying. “It’s a wound that has been open for some time,” Bruni said. “The Holy See undoubtedly supports every effort to strengthen bilateral talks, which are the only solution for the island and its people.” He suggested Francis would indirectly take those issues on, saying that he would touch on environmental themes by speaking of the horrible fires that burned Greece’s forests this summer but also “the exploitation of the seabed.” Cyprus is an ancient Christian land. Tradition holds that St. Paul arrived here around A.D. 46 to preach the Gospel with Barnabas, a Cypriot and a saint. Francis, in his video message, said he would come “in the footsteps of the first great missionaries,” and for the chance “to drink from the ancient wellsprings of Europe: Cyprus, the outpost of the Holy Land on the continent; Greece, the home of classical culture.”

Pope Francis heads to Cyprus, aiming to highlight plight of migrants

Cyprus is a country blessed with sunlight throughout the year, yet it has been struggling to generate solar power, why is that? Our next report has some answers.

Cyprus struggles to generate solar power, unable to provide electricity after sunset

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Tuesday warned Turkey to stop 'aggressive posturing' over maritime dispute and engage in talks. His statement came during a visit to Saudi Arabia made with an aim of strebngthening ties with Gulf countries.

The PM warned that Greece had "drawn our lines very, very clearly" after signing defence deals with the United States and France earlier this month.

"We are secure. I don't think there is a geopolitical threat," Mitsotakis told the elite annual meeting dubbed 'Davos in the Desert', with Prince Mohammed in the audience.

"And I think at the end of the day Turkey will also realise that this aggressive posturing in the eastern Mediterranean is not going to lead anywhere."

Tensions between Greece and Turkey soared last year when Turkey sent gas exploration ship and small navy flotilla to hunt for resources in waters Greece considers its own under treaties.

In July, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan endorsed a formal partition of Cyprus, which Ankara invaded in 1974 in response to a coup engineered by Greece's then military junta.

Greece also blames Turkey for not taking sufficient action to curb smugglers who send out migrants in unsafe boats and dinghies from its shores.

According to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, more than 2,500 people have crossed the Aegean from neighbouring Turkey this year, compared to over 9,700 in 2020.

"I think we've set up our alliances, we've drawn our lines very, very clearly," Mitsotakis said.

"And I do hope that at some point, Turkey will constructively engage with us to resolve the one main outstanding issue we have which is the delineation of maritime shores."

He added: "We're always open for dialogue, but we will not be intimidated and we will not accept our sovereign rights to be compromised."

(With inputs from agencies)

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Tuesday warned Turkey to stop 'aggressive posturing' over maritime dispute and engage in talks. His statement came during a visit to Saudi Arabia made with an aim of strebngthening ties with Gulf countries.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Tuesday warned Turkey to stop 'aggressive posturing' over maritime dispute and engage in talks. His statement came during a visit to Saudi Arabia made with an aim of strebngthening ties with Gulf countries. The PM warned that Greece had "drawn our lines very, very clearly" after signing defence deals with the United States and France earlier this month. "We are secure. I don't think there is a geopolitical threat," Mitsotakis told the elite annual meeting dubbed 'Davos in the Desert', with Prince Mohammed in the audience. "And I think at the end of the day Turkey will also realise that this aggressive posturing in the eastern Mediterranean is not going to lead anywhere." Tensions between Greece and Turkey soared last year when Turkey sent gas exploration ship and small navy flotilla to hunt for resources in waters Greece considers its own under treaties. In July, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan endorsed a formal partition of Cyprus, which Ankara invaded in 1974 in response to a coup engineered by Greece's then military junta. Greece also blames Turkey for not taking sufficient action to curb smugglers who send out migrants in unsafe boats and dinghies from its shores. According to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, more than 2,500 people have crossed the Aegean from neighbouring Turkey this year, compared to over 9,700 in 2020. "I think we've set up our alliances, we've drawn our lines very, very clearly," Mitsotakis said. "And I do hope that at some point, Turkey will constructively engage with us to resolve the one main outstanding issue we have which is the delineation of maritime shores." He added: "We're always open for dialogue, but we will not be intimidated and we will not accept our sovereign rights to be compromised." (With inputs from agencies)

Greece warns Turkey to stop 'aggressive posturing'

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people to people engagement.

Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Cyprus FM said, "We have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to international law and rules-based international system". The foreign minister had a bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During the meet, FM Nikos extended invite to EAM to visit Cyprus.

The Cyprus FM also slammed Turkey for "militarisation" of its foriegn policy and "violating International law". He thanked India for "active and major" role when Turkey was seen violating United Nations Security council resolutions on Cyprus by opening Varosha. Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey.&nbsp;

WION: How will you characterise India Cyprus relations?

Nikos Christodoulides: If I would characterise the relationship between India and Cyprus, I will use 3 words--strong, strategic, and indispensable. Traditionally and historically, we have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to International Law and rules-based international system. I am very glad; I had the chance to meet my colleague here in New York not only to discuss our bilateral relations but also to work together to enhance our bilateral relations. We exchanged views on regional developments, I have to say, I have been always looking forward to the assessment of my colleague who has a very good knowledge of the region.&nbsp;

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Third, we discussed the relationship between European Union and India. Cyprus is a strong supporter of the enhancement of the relationship between Brussels and New Delhi and we need to work together with India, not only on economic and political issues but also, on the region. Because for us, India and EU are pillars of stability in a region of great geo-strategic importance. So, we need to work together with India and I am glad that very recently, we had with us in Portugal, who had the presidency of the EU, our Indian colleague was also there to he gave assessment for the development of the region and how to work together for enhancement of EU-India relations.

WION: How can Cyprus be launch pad for Indian businesses?

Nikos Christodoulides: Cyprus for India is the gateway for Europe and European union, and that is why we are working together with my colleague to enhance people to people contact, to enhance our business relations and Europe is a huge market and can give opportunity to Indians. Also, for Europe, Europeans, European companies to invest in India. Its a huge market, a market that can give lot to European citizens and European companies.

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WION: You had a meeting with EAM Jaishankar. India and Cyprus are working on many things, we saw conversation on Turkish side not respecting United Nations Security council resolutions..

Nikos Christodoulides: First of all I would like to thank my Indian colleague, I would like to thank Indian govt through our discussions for their active and major role during the recent discussions regarding the Cyprus problem and the Turkish illegal actions in Cyprus. When the issue was discussed at the security council, have to say India's leading role, it was crucial, in order to have positive result from the security council.&nbsp;

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It is something that we recognise, it is something we are grateful for. At the same time, recognising the role of India in the region I extended an invitation to my colleague to participate in the regional developments in the eastern Mediterranean and the greater Middle East. Right now, there is an effort from all of the countries of the region, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, UAE, Jordan to come together to not only better tackle the challenges in the region but also take advantage of the opportunities of the region. I invite my Indian colleague to participate in this discussion, in these regional discussions, and I believe and I hope that soon India will be part of these regional developments. I know, this is what the countries of the region will like to see.

WION: Turkey has been concern for Cyprus and for India as well. How is it changing the geo-political situation in and around Cyprus?

Nikos Christodoulides: Unfortunately, Turkey's behavior is violating International law, they don't respect international law, they don't respect rules-based international system. Turkey has problem with all its neighbours. It is not only Cyprus-- Greece, Syria, Libya, Iraq, even India. What we want and the message we are sending to Turkey is, we don't exclude any country from our cooperation, we want excellent bilateral relations with all countries. What we need though from turkey is to respect International Law, respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity for the countries of the region. However, we see from Turkish action, the militarisation of the Turkish foreign policy and this an issue of great concern for all the countries in the region.

WION: It doesn't look like Turkey is giving any positive vibes or actions in region, plans to recognise northern Cyprus with Turkish allies like Pakistan trying to give feelers.

Nikos Christodoulides: First of all you are right that we dont see positive vibes from Turkey. We see sometime few positive statements, but we dont see positive actions. We need positive actions. Regarding the issue you raised, recognition of an illegal regime in the north of Cyprus, as you know very well the Security Council was clear that such an action is going to be against International Law, and we expect from all countries of the international system not to proceed with such an action.

WION: Will you again go to United Nations Security council if Turkey is seen violating UNSC resolutions, as it has been?

Nikos Christodoulides: Of course, and actually recent dicussions that took place were because of the illegal actions of Turkey. It was the 3rd time we appealed to Security Council, and if there is a need again, we will do of course and we are looking forward for support from India and we know very well, having in mind that the foreign policy of India is based on International Law, that we will have your support.

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people to people engagement.

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people to people engagement. Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Cyprus FM said, "We have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to international law and rules-based international system". The foreign minister had a bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During the meet, FM Nikos extended invite to EAM to visit Cyprus. The Cyprus FM also slammed Turkey for "militarisation" of its foriegn policy and "violating International law". He thanked India for "active and major" role when Turkey was seen violating United Nations Security council resolutions on Cyprus by opening Varosha. Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey. WION: How will you characterise India Cyprus relations? Nikos Christodoulides: If I would characterise the relationship between India and Cyprus, I will use 3 words--strong, strategic, and indispensable. Traditionally and historically, we have excellent relations, based on our strong commitment to International Law and rules-based international system. I am very glad; I had the chance to meet my colleague here in New York not only to discuss our bilateral relations but also to work together to enhance our bilateral relations. We exchanged views on regional developments, I have to say, I have been always looking forward to the assessment of my colleague who has a very good knowledge of the region. Also Read | Nepal, India agree to further promote existing cooperation between countries Third, we discussed the relationship between European Union and India. Cyprus is a strong supporter of the enhancement of the relationship between Brussels and New Delhi and we need to work together with India, not only on economic and political issues but also, on the region. Because for us, India and EU are pillars of stability in a region of great geo-strategic importance. So, we need to work together with India and I am glad that very recently, we had with us in Portugal, who had the presidency of the EU, our Indian colleague was also there to he gave assessment for the development of the region and how to work together for enhancement of EU-India relations. WION: How can Cyprus be launch pad for Indian businesses? Nikos Christodoulides: Cyprus for India is the gateway for Europe and European union, and that is why we are working together with my colleague to enhance people to people contact, to enhance our business relations and Europe is a huge market and can give opportunity to Indians. Also, for Europe, Europeans, European companies to invest in India. Its a huge market, a market that can give lot to European citizens and European companies. Also Read | India, Oman ink pact to boost maritime security cooperation WION: You had a meeting with EAM Jaishankar. India and Cyprus are working on many things, we saw conversation on Turkish side not respecting United Nations Security council resolutions.. Nikos Christodoulides: First of all I would like to thank my Indian colleague, I would like to thank Indian govt through our discussions for their active and major role during the recent discussions regarding the Cyprus problem and the Turkish illegal actions in Cyprus. When the issue was discussed at the security council, have to say India's leading role, it was crucial, in order to have positive result from the security council. Also Read | New German govt expected to continue strong ties with India: German envoy It is something that we recognise, it is something we are grateful for. At the same time, recognising the role of India in the region I extended an invitation to my colleague to participate in the regional developments in the eastern Mediterranean and the greater Middle East. Right now, there is an effort from all of the countries of the region, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, UAE, Jordan to come together to not only better tackle the challenges in the region but also take advantage of the opportunities of the region. I invite my Indian colleague to participate in this discussion, in these regional discussions, and I believe and I hope that soon India will be part of these regional developments. I know, this is what the countries of the region will like to see. WION: Turkey has been concern for Cyprus and for India as well. How is it changing the geo-political situation in and around Cyprus? Nikos Christodoulides: Unfortunately, Turkey's behavior is violating International law, they don't respect international law, they don't respect rules-based international system. Turkey has problem with all its neighbours. It is not only Cyprus-- Greece, Syria, Libya, Iraq, even India. What we want and the message we are sending to Turkey is, we don't exclude any country from our cooperation, we want excellent bilateral relations with all countries. What we need though from turkey is to respect International Law, respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity for the countries of the region. However, we see from Turkish action, the militarisation of the Turkish foreign policy and this an issue of great concern for all the countries in the region. WION: It doesn't look like Turkey is giving any positive vibes or actions in region, plans to recognise northern Cyprus with Turkish allies like Pakistan trying to give feelers. Nikos Christodoulides: First of all you are right that we dont see positive vibes from Turkey. We see sometime few positive statements, but we dont see positive actions. We need positive actions. Regarding the issue you raised, recognition of an illegal regime in the north of Cyprus, as you know very well the Security Council was clear that such an action is going to be against International Law, and we expect from all countries of the international system not to proceed with such an action. WION: Will you again go to United Nations Security council if Turkey is seen violating UNSC resolutions, as it has been? Nikos Christodoulides: Of course, and actually recent dicussions that took place were because of the illegal actions of Turkey. It was the 3rd time we appealed to Security Council, and if there is a need again, we will do of course and we are looking forward for support from India and we know very well, having in mind that the foreign policy of India is based on International Law, that we will have your support.

Ties with India are strong, strategic and indispensable: Cyprus FM Christodoulides

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become a "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people-to-people engagement.

Support enhancement of ties between Brussels & New Delhi: Cyprus FM Nikos Christodoulides

Hours after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a close ally of Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue in his address at the UN General Assembly in New York, India called for respecting UN Security Council resolutions on Cyprus.

In his address on Tuesday, Erdogan said, “We maintain our stance in favour of solving the ongoing problem in Kashmir for 74 years, through dialogue between the parties and within the framework of relevant United Nations resolutions.”

Last year also, Erdogan in his pre-recorded video statement to the General Debate, had made a reference to Kashmir.

Hours after the Turkish president’s speech, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during a bilateral meeting with his Cyprus counterpart Nikos Christodoulides, emphasised the need to adhere to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions with respect to the east Mediterranean island.

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Tweeting about his meeting, Jaishankar on Wednesday said,&nbsp;“Working to take our economic ties forward. Appreciated his regional insights. Important that relevant UN Security Council resolutions in respect of Cyprus are adhered to by all”.

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Delighted to meet FM <a href="https://twitter.com/Christodulides?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Christodulides</a> of Cyprus. 
 
Working to take our economic ties forward. 
 
Appreciated his regional insights. 
 
Important that relevant UN Security Council resolutions in respect of Cyprus are adhered to by all. <a href="https://t.co/pZXPefT9Sj">pic.twitter.com/pZXPefT9Sj</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1440424567663521799?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Cyprus was split in a Turkish invasion in 1974 after a brief Greek-inspired coup. North Cyprus is recognised only by Turkey, while the Republic of Cyprus, run by Greek Cypriots, is internationally recognised.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-bilateral-ties-destined-to-move-ahead-says-indias-envoy-to-us-taranjit-singh-sandhu-414790">Exclusive-Bilateral ties destined to move ahead, says India's envoy to US Taranjit Singh Sandhu</a>

In his address on Tuesday, the Turkish president also referred to China's minority Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang and Myanmar's Rohingya.

Erdogan said that within China's territorial integrity perspective, we do believe that more efforts need to be displayed regarding the protection of the basic rights of the Muslim Uyghur Turks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hours after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a close ally of Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue in his address at the UN General Assembly in New York, India called for respecting UN Security Council resolutions on Cyprus.

Hours after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a close ally of Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue in his address at the UN General Assembly in New York, India called for respecting UN Security Council resolutions on Cyprus. In his address on Tuesday, Erdogan said, “We maintain our stance in favour of solving the ongoing problem in Kashmir for 74 years, through dialogue between the parties and within the framework of relevant United Nations resolutions.” Last year also, Erdogan in his pre-recorded video statement to the General Debate, had made a reference to Kashmir. Hours after the Turkish president’s speech, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during a bilateral meeting with his Cyprus counterpart Nikos Christodoulides, emphasised the need to adhere to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions with respect to the east Mediterranean island. Also read | Chinese President Xi vows to stop funding coal projects overseas at UNGA Tweeting about his meeting, Jaishankar on Wednesday said, “Working to take our economic ties forward. Appreciated his regional insights. Important that relevant UN Security Council resolutions in respect of Cyprus are adhered to by all”. Delighted to meet FM @Christodulides of Cyprus. Working to take our economic ties forward. Appreciated his regional insights. Important that relevant UN Security Council resolutions in respect of Cyprus are adhered to by all. pic.twitter.com/pZXPefT9Sj — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 21, 2021 × Cyprus was split in a Turkish invasion in 1974 after a brief Greek-inspired coup. North Cyprus is recognised only by Turkey, while the Republic of Cyprus, run by Greek Cypriots, is internationally recognised. Also read | Exclusive-Bilateral ties destined to move ahead, says India's envoy to US Taranjit Singh Sandhu In his address on Tuesday, the Turkish president also referred to China's minority Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang and Myanmar's Rohingya. Erdogan said that within China's territorial integrity perspective, we do believe that more efforts need to be displayed regarding the protection of the basic rights of the Muslim Uyghur Turks. (With inputs from agencies)

Hours after Erdogan rakes up Kashmir at UNGA, India calls for respecting UNSC resolutions on Cyprus

Cyprus&nbsp;will&nbsp;give&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;booster&nbsp;jabs to those&nbsp;over&nbsp;65 and care home residents whose full vaccination is more than six months old, Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantelas said Thursday.

The decision comes after the cabinet approved Covid-19 vaccine&nbsp;booster&nbsp;shots for the elderly, vulnerable groups and health professionals.

Hadjipantelas said people&nbsp;over&nbsp;65, those living in care homes, the immunosuppressed of all ages and health professionals would be given a third dose, provided it has been at least six months since their second&nbsp;jab.

The decision comes after the European Medicines Agency said that additional doses should be considered for people with severely weakened immune systems as part of their primary vaccination.

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The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, however, said there is no urgency for boosters to be administered to the general public.

Health authorities in&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;have contained the fourth wave of infections driven by the virus's Delta variant, which triggered a record 1,152 daily cases in mid-July.

"Important steps have been taken to stop the Delta variant and to curb the reluctance of those to get vaccinated," Hadjipantelas said.

He said&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;had the second-lowest coronavirus mortality rate among European Union countries after Finland, with 507 deaths and 114,131 cases since the outbreak began in March 2020.

As of August 31, 74.2 per cent of the population have been fully vaccinated, and 79 per cent have received one shot.

Cyprus will give Covid-19 booster jabs to those over 65 and care home residents whose full vaccination is more than six months old, Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantelas said Thursday.

Cyprus will give Covid-19 booster jabs to those over 65 and care home residents whose full vaccination is more than six months old, Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantelas said Thursday. The decision comes after the cabinet approved Covid-19 vaccine booster shots for the elderly, vulnerable groups and health professionals. Hadjipantelas said people over 65, those living in care homes, the immunosuppressed of all ages and health professionals would be given a third dose, provided it has been at least six months since their second jab. The decision comes after the European Medicines Agency said that additional doses should be considered for people with severely weakened immune systems as part of their primary vaccination. Also read | Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, however, said there is no urgency for boosters to be administered to the general public. Health authorities in Cyprus have contained the fourth wave of infections driven by the virus's Delta variant, which triggered a record 1,152 daily cases in mid-July. "Important steps have been taken to stop the Delta variant and to curb the reluctance of those to get vaccinated," Hadjipantelas said. He said Cyprus had the second-lowest coronavirus mortality rate among European Union countries after Finland, with 507 deaths and 114,131 cases since the outbreak began in March 2020. As of August 31, 74.2 per cent of the population have been fully vaccinated, and 79 per cent have received one shot.

Cyprus to give booster jab to over 65s

Authorities have warned that an oil spill the size of New York City, that has spread across the Mediterranean, could reach Cyprus.

20,000 tonnes of fuel oil had spilled last week from a power plant in Baniyas, located on Syria's Mediterranean coast.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974. The Republic of Cyprus has effective control over the southern two-thirds of the island.&nbsp;

The government said Tuesday it had not "located" any sign of the oil spill in the areas under its control and that it had conveyed its readiness to help authorities in the north in tackling any pollution.

"Unfortunately... we have not received any information or any response from the authorities of the illegal regime, and so we remain alert," Environment Minister Costas Kadis told Cyprus News Agency.

The deputy head of the executive office in the Tartous governorate, Bassam Hamoud had said that the Tartous governor has formed a committee to deal with the pollution resulting from the leak as soon as the incident took place.

The committee was given full authority to contain the situation, he added.

Syria's electricity minister has said that the size of the leak ranged from two to four tonnes of fuel.

Although the Syrian government said the leak was small and limited, the minister of agriculture, rural development and environment in Cyprus, Costas Kadis, said on Monday that they are systematically monitoring the situation and are ready to intervene if necessary.

Syria suffers from huge fuel shortages that affects electricity. The country's government promotes the switch to alternative energy, especially solar power.

Authorities have warned that an oil spill the size of New York City, that has spread across the Mediterranean, could reach Cyprus. 20,000 tonnes of fuel oil had spilled last week from a power plant in Baniyas, located on Syria's Mediterranean coast.

Authorities have warned that an oil spill the size of New York City, that has spread across the Mediterranean, could reach Cyprus. 20,000 tonnes of fuel oil had spilled last week from a power plant in Baniyas, located on Syria's Mediterranean coast. Cyprus has been divided since 1974. The Republic of Cyprus has effective control over the southern two-thirds of the island. The government said Tuesday it had not "located" any sign of the oil spill in the areas under its control and that it had conveyed its readiness to help authorities in the north in tackling any pollution. "Unfortunately... we have not received any information or any response from the authorities of the illegal regime, and so we remain alert," Environment Minister Costas Kadis told Cyprus News Agency. The deputy head of the executive office in the Tartous governorate, Bassam Hamoud had said that the Tartous governor has formed a committee to deal with the pollution resulting from the leak as soon as the incident took place. The committee was given full authority to contain the situation, he added. Syria's electricity minister has said that the size of the leak ranged from two to four tonnes of fuel. Although the Syrian government said the leak was small and limited, the minister of agriculture, rural development and environment in Cyprus, Costas Kadis, said on Monday that they are systematically monitoring the situation and are ready to intervene if necessary. Syria suffers from huge fuel shortages that affects electricity. The country's government promotes the switch to alternative energy, especially solar power.

Authorities warn oil spill the size of New York City can reach Cyprus

Turkey has decided to partially reopen a town for resettlement of the separate ghost town of Varosha. The move has sparked outrage amongst western powers. Varosha is a town that was abandoned by Greek Cypriots in 1974.

Turkey to partially reopen Cyprus ghost town of Varosha

France on Wednesday accused Turkey of&nbsp;a provocation after President&nbsp;Recep Tayyip Erdogan&nbsp;pressed for a two-state solution for Cyprus during a visit to the Turkish-occupied north of the Mediterranean island.

"France&nbsp;deeply regrets this unilateral move which was not coordinated and constitutes a provocation," the foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

"It undermines the restoration of the confidence necessary for the urgent resumption of negotiations for a just and lasting settlement of the Cyprus question."

Speaking to members of his ruling AK party via video conference, Erdogan had said&nbsp;"the only demand of the Turkish Cypriots at the table in international negotiations is the recognition of the status of a sovereign state. All offers other than this have expired."

He also threw his weight behind plans to partially reopen a coastal resort that was emptied of its original Greek Cypriot residents.

France, which is currently chairing the UN Security Council, will raise the issue at discussions there on Thursday, the ministry said.

"France&nbsp;reaffirms its attachment to the framework endorsed by the UN Security Council, based on a bizonal and bicommunal federation, offering the two communities full guarantees of their political equality," it said.

The island is divided between the Greek Cypriot-run Republic of Cyprus and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Ankara.

Turkish troops seized Cyprus's northern third in 1974 in response to an aborted coup in Nicosia aimed at attaching the country to Greece.

(With inputs from agencies)

France on Wednesday accused Turkey of a provocation after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pressed for a two-state solution for Cyprus during a visit to the Turkish-occupied north of the Mediterranean island.

France on Wednesday accused Turkey of a provocation after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pressed for a two-state solution for Cyprus during a visit to the Turkish-occupied north of the Mediterranean island. "France deeply regrets this unilateral move which was not coordinated and constitutes a provocation," the foreign ministry said in a statement. "It undermines the restoration of the confidence necessary for the urgent resumption of negotiations for a just and lasting settlement of the Cyprus question." Speaking to members of his ruling AK party via video conference, Erdogan had said "the only demand of the Turkish Cypriots at the table in international negotiations is the recognition of the status of a sovereign state. All offers other than this have expired." He also threw his weight behind plans to partially reopen a coastal resort that was emptied of its original Greek Cypriot residents. France, which is currently chairing the UN Security Council, will raise the issue at discussions there on Thursday, the ministry said. "France reaffirms its attachment to the framework endorsed by the UN Security Council, based on a bizonal and bicommunal federation, offering the two communities full guarantees of their political equality," it said. The island is divided between the Greek Cypriot-run Republic of Cyprus and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Ankara. Turkish troops seized Cyprus's northern third in 1974 in response to an aborted coup in Nicosia aimed at attaching the country to Greece. (With inputs from agencies)

France accuses Turkey of 'provocation' after Erdogan presses two-state solution in Cyprus

A Turkish coastguard vessel on Friday fired warning shots at a Cyprus police boat. The boat was on patrol for undocumented migrants, said Cypriot media.

The incident came amid high tensions on the island as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan prepares to visit the breakaway Turkish Cypriot north next week to mark the anniversary of Turkey's 1974 invasion.

The Cypriot vessel spotted the Turkish coastguard some 11 nautical miles from the small fishing port of Kato Pyrgos, just west of the UN-patrolled armistice line separating government-held territory from the breakaway north, the Cyprus News Agency reported.

Christos Andreou, spokesman for Cyprus police told CNA that coastguard cutter was inside Cyprus' territorial waters. The incident took place at 0030 GMT, he said.

He further said that the boat was on regular patrol to check irregular migrants. The area is a dropping-off point for migrants coming from Turkey.

"The patrol boat’s three-member crew seeing the intentions of the Turkish coastguard tried to avoid any incident and headed toward the fishing shelter at Kato Pyrgos," he said.

"At a distance of four nautical miles from the shelter, the marine police boat received warning shots from the Turkish coastguard.

"Then, being a short distance from the shores, the Turkish coastguard left for the occupied territories" (of northern Cyprus), he said.

Tensions are high ahead of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the island next week. Greek Cypriots see this tour as provocative one. Erdogan will visit abandoned beach resort of Varosha, which was emptied of its Greek Cypriot residents by the Turkish invasion.

Cyprus police have stepped up both land and sea patrols since the government declared a "state of emergency" in May following an influx of Syrian migrants that has flooded its reception centres.

(With inouts from agencies)

A Turkish coastguard vessel on Friday fired warning shots at a Cyprus police boat. The boat was on patrol for undocumented migrants, said Cypriot media. The incident came amid high tensions on the island as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan prepares to visit the breakaway Turkish Cypriot north next week to mark the anniversary of Turkey's 1974 invasion.

A Turkish coastguard vessel on Friday fired warning shots at a Cyprus police boat. The boat was on patrol for undocumented migrants, said Cypriot media. The incident came amid high tensions on the island as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan prepares to visit the breakaway Turkish Cypriot north next week to mark the anniversary of Turkey's 1974 invasion. The Cypriot vessel spotted the Turkish coastguard some 11 nautical miles from the small fishing port of Kato Pyrgos, just west of the UN-patrolled armistice line separating government-held territory from the breakaway north, the Cyprus News Agency reported. Christos Andreou, spokesman for Cyprus police told CNA that coastguard cutter was inside Cyprus' territorial waters. The incident took place at 0030 GMT, he said. He further said that the boat was on regular patrol to check irregular migrants. The area is a dropping-off point for migrants coming from Turkey. "The patrol boat’s three-member crew seeing the intentions of the Turkish coastguard tried to avoid any incident and headed toward the fishing shelter at Kato Pyrgos," he said. "At a distance of four nautical miles from the shelter, the marine police boat received warning shots from the Turkish coastguard. "Then, being a short distance from the shores, the Turkish coastguard left for the occupied territories" (of northern Cyprus), he said. Tensions are high ahead of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the island next week. Greek Cypriots see this tour as provocative one. Erdogan will visit abandoned beach resort of Varosha, which was emptied of its Greek Cypriot residents by the Turkish invasion. Cyprus police have stepped up both land and sea patrols since the government declared a "state of emergency" in May following an influx of Syrian migrants that has flooded its reception centres. (With inouts from agencies)

Turkish coastguard fires warning shot at Cyprus police ship

The Cyprus Forestry Department said Monday that a deadly wildfire, the island's worst in decades, was now "under full control".

The blaze, fanned by strong winds, broke out Saturday and swept through parts of the Troodos mountain range, leaving four Egyptian labourers dead, before being reined in by water bombing by Greek and Israeli aircraft.

"The fire that broke out on Saturday... came under full control today Monday, July 5, 2021 at 08:00 am (0500 GMT)," the department said in a statement.

It added that firefighters were still deployed en masse around the village of Arakapas to tackle any potential further outbreaks.

The fire, described as the worst since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960, destroyed 50 homes, damaged power lines and forced the evacuation of 10 villages.

It burned an area of about 55 square kilometres covered with forest vegetation and crops.

Four Egyptian labourers died trying to escape the village of Odos.

AFP reporters saw thick gnarled trunks of ancient olive trees reduced to smouldering stumps and grey ash replacing yellowed scrub as far as the eye could see, as well as several burned out homes in Ora village.

A 67-year-old farmer was arrested and remanded in custody on suspicion of causing the blaze, a charge he denied.

Police said an eyewitness had seen him leaving Arakapas in his car at the same time the fire started there. He could face charges of recklessly causing four deaths.

More than 600 people from the emergency services and the army were involved in tackling the blaze, with a dozen aircraft and 70 fire trucks as well as a reconnaissance drone, the Forestry Department said.

Aircraft from Israel, Greece and the British bases on Cyprus were also deployed to help.

The Cyprus Forestry Department said Monday that a deadly wildfire, the island's worst in decades, was now "under full control". The blaze, fanned by strong winds, broke out Saturday and swept through parts of the Troodos mountain range, leaving four Egyptian labourers dead, before being reined in by water bombing by Greek and Israeli aircraft.

The Cyprus Forestry Department said Monday that a deadly wildfire, the island's worst in decades, was now "under full control". The blaze, fanned by strong winds, broke out Saturday and swept through parts of the Troodos mountain range, leaving four Egyptian labourers dead, before being reined in by water bombing by Greek and Israeli aircraft. "The fire that broke out on Saturday... came under full control today Monday, July 5, 2021 at 08:00 am (0500 GMT)," the department said in a statement. It added that firefighters were still deployed en masse around the village of Arakapas to tackle any potential further outbreaks. The fire, described as the worst since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960, destroyed 50 homes, damaged power lines and forced the evacuation of 10 villages. It burned an area of about 55 square kilometres covered with forest vegetation and crops. Four Egyptian labourers died trying to escape the village of Odos. AFP reporters saw thick gnarled trunks of ancient olive trees reduced to smouldering stumps and grey ash replacing yellowed scrub as far as the eye could see, as well as several burned out homes in Ora village. A 67-year-old farmer was arrested and remanded in custody on suspicion of causing the blaze, a charge he denied. Police said an eyewitness had seen him leaving Arakapas in his car at the same time the fire started there. He could face charges of recklessly causing four deaths. More than 600 people from the emergency services and the army were involved in tackling the blaze, with a dozen aircraft and 70 fire trucks as well as a reconnaissance drone, the Forestry Department said. Aircraft from Israel, Greece and the British bases on Cyprus were also deployed to help.

Cyprus says huge forest fire 'under full control' 

In Pics | Deadly forest fire in Cyprus finally brought under control

The European Union on Saturday deployed aerial assistance to help&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;contain a huge forest fire raging north of the cities of Limassol and Larnaca, a blaze one official called the worst on record.

The blaze, fanned by strong winds, affected at least six communities in the foothills of the Troodos mountain range, an area of pine forest and densely vegetated shrubland.

The EU's executive, the European Commission, said fire-fighting planes had departed from Greece to battle the fire and Italy was also planning to deploy aerial fire-fighters.

The EU's emergency Copernicus satellite was also activated to provide damage assessment maps of the affected areas, the Commission said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-military-plane-carrying-85-people-crashes-40-rescued-395665">Also read |&nbsp;Philippine military plane carrying 85 people crashes; 40 rescued</a>

"It is the worst forest fire in the history of&nbsp;Cyprus," Forestries Department Director Charalambos Alexandrou told&nbsp;Cyprus's Omega TV.

Attempts were being made to prevent the blaze from crossing the mountains and stop it before reaching Machairas, a pine forestland and one of the highest peaks in&nbsp;Cyprus.

Alexandrou said the perimeter of the fire was "at least 40 kilometres".

Dozens of properties were damaged, but no injuries were reported. There were widespread power cuts in the area. Plumes of smoke were visible in the capital Nicosia, some 75 km (45 miles) away.

Officials said that in addition to Greece's assistance with two aircraft, help was also expected from Israel.

"This is a very difficult day for&nbsp;Cyprus. All of the state's mechanisms are in gear, and the priority is for no loss of life," Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades tweeted.

Israel accepted Nicosia's plea for help, a statement from Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said, and will send firefighting aircraft to&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;on Sunday.

The cause of the fire, which started around midday, was unclear.&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;has experienced a heatwave this week, with temperatures exceeding 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). Police said they were questioning a 67 year old person in connection with the blaze.

"It passed through like a whirlwind, it destroyed everything," said Vassos Vassiliou, the community leader of Arakapas, one of the communities affected.

The European Union on Saturday deployed aerial assistance to help Cyprus contain a huge forest fire raging north of the cities of Limassol and Larnaca, a blaze one official called the worst on record.

The European Union on Saturday deployed aerial assistance to help Cyprus contain a huge forest fire raging north of the cities of Limassol and Larnaca, a blaze one official called the worst on record. The blaze, fanned by strong winds, affected at least six communities in the foothills of the Troodos mountain range, an area of pine forest and densely vegetated shrubland. The EU's executive, the European Commission, said fire-fighting planes had departed from Greece to battle the fire and Italy was also planning to deploy aerial fire-fighters. The EU's emergency Copernicus satellite was also activated to provide damage assessment maps of the affected areas, the Commission said in a statement. Also read | Philippine military plane carrying 85 people crashes; 40 rescued "It is the worst forest fire in the history of Cyprus," Forestries Department Director Charalambos Alexandrou told Cyprus's Omega TV. Attempts were being made to prevent the blaze from crossing the mountains and stop it before reaching Machairas, a pine forestland and one of the highest peaks in Cyprus. Alexandrou said the perimeter of the fire was "at least 40 kilometres". Dozens of properties were damaged, but no injuries were reported. There were widespread power cuts in the area. Plumes of smoke were visible in the capital Nicosia, some 75 km (45 miles) away. Officials said that in addition to Greece's assistance with two aircraft, help was also expected from Israel. "This is a very difficult day for Cyprus. All of the state's mechanisms are in gear, and the priority is for no loss of life," Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades tweeted. Israel accepted Nicosia's plea for help, a statement from Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said, and will send firefighting aircraft to Cyprus on Sunday. The cause of the fire, which started around midday, was unclear. Cyprus has experienced a heatwave this week, with temperatures exceeding 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). Police said they were questioning a 67 year old person in connection with the blaze. "It passed through like a whirlwind, it destroyed everything," said Vassos Vassiliou, the community leader of Arakapas, one of the communities affected.

EU deploys assistance for Cyprus as huge forest fire rages

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