Cyprus Forum 2025, one of the most important public policy conferences in the region, concluded with great success and the participation of leading international and local figures. The three-day conference, held from 1 to 3 October, brought together political leaders, EU technocrats, academics, business leaders, and civil society representatives to discuss the major challenges facing Cyprus, Europe, and the broader region — seeking solutions and innovative approaches.
Opening Ceremony and Peace & Democracy Award
The Forum kicked off at the Old Nicosia Town Hall, with a welcome address by Nicolas Kyriakides, Executive President and Founding Member of the Cyprus Forum. President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stressed the need for bold and ongoing reforms to strengthen the rule of law and combat corruption, while reiterating his cautious optimism for the resumption of Cyprus talks.
Key European officials, such as Commissioner for Oceans and Fisheries Costas Kadis and Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, presented the EU’s strategic priorities for shipping, oceans, and enlargement.
The first day concluded with the Peace and Democracy Award, presented posthumously to Xenophon Kallis and Türkan Aziz, in recognition of their contributions to democracy and reconciliation.
Digital Policy, Economy, and Social Cohesion
The second day featured several panels and discussions on topics including digital policy, artificial intelligence, wildfire prevention, migration, long-term care, and the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the EU in 2026.
Deputy Minister for Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Nicodemos Damianou, and Flavio Arzerello from Meta discussed the role of tech giants in democracies, while Minister of Labour Yiannis Panayiotou outlined the prospects of the labour market and social welfare. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos addressed the challenges and outlook of the new tax policy. Other key sessions focused on energy transition, gender equality, institutional independence, and press freedom.
The day closed with the Forum’s official dinner, where Mario Nava, Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion at the European Commission, delivered remarks.
Democracy, Foreign Policy, and Peaceful Cooperation
The third day focused on strengthening the parliamentary system, transparency, civic engagement, and the strategic importance of the Eastern Mediterranean. Key speakers included President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou, EU officials, and diplomats from the United Kingdom, India, and Israel.
Key discussions also addressed education, women’s leadership, democratic processes, and the sustainable energy and technological transition. Central topics included the Cyprus issue, intercommunal cooperation, and leveraging solar energy for peaceful development.
The Forum concluded with presentations on urban development in Cyprus, strengthening citizen participation, and promoting peace and stability in the region.
Cyprus Forum 2025 reaffirmed Cyprus’ role as a hub for dialogue on political and social challenges, enhancing its position on the European and international stage.
All discussions from Cyprus Forum 2025 are available HERE
