If there’s one place in the Mediterranean where politics, economics, and diplomacy meet over coffee and conviction, it’s Limassol every autumn. The Limassol Economic Forum, the region’s most prestigious platform for thought leadership and strategic dialogue, is back for its 16th edition — transforming the Parklane Resort & Spa into a mini Davos with a Mediterranean soul.
This year’s theme feels almost prophetic: “The World on Fire.”
No exaggeration there — we’re living through a world ablaze with crises. Wars, inflation, energy instability, and political polarisation are reshaping the global order. But in the midst of this chaos, the Forum gathers those who don’t just survive uncertainty — they decode it.
Geopolitics & Diplomacy: Europe in Search of Its Voice
The Forum opens with geopolitics front and centre. Annita Demetriou, President of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Cyprus, takes the stage to address Europe’s existential question: Can the continent act as one in an increasingly fragmented world?
Then, Ambassador (ret.) Jonathan R. Cohen dissects the cracks in the post-war international system, while the Ambassadors of the UK and India bring fresh diplomatic insights on peace, balance, and Cyprus’ evolving role as a strategic hub in the Eastern Mediterranean. If you ever thought diplomacy was dull, this session might just change your mind.
The World on Fire – Business Under Pressure, Brilliance Underway
Inflation. Geopolitical risk. Market volatility. For some, these are warning signs. For others — opportunities.
Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki, will explore how Cyprus is using strategic reform and investment to build resilience and competitiveness. Then, business heavyweights Elias Neocleous (Elias Neocleous & Co LLC), George Pantelides (Deloitte) and Dr Charis Pouangare (Bank of Cyprus) will discuss how leadership evolves when the world refuses to sit still.
Spoiler: keeping your cool might just be the ultimate business strategy.
Global & European Economics – Who’s Paying the Bill?
From the decline of neoliberalism to the birth of a new economic paradigm, this session promises sharp insights and honest reflection.
Professor Larry Kramer, President of the London School of Economics, kicks things off with a look at what might replace the old economic order.
Then, former Finance Ministers Christos Staikouras and Harris Georgiades engage in a lively discussion about Europe’s economic transition — balancing growth, green policies, and fiscal realism.
Meanwhile, Georgios Georgiou (Allianz Global Investors) and Michalis Persianis (Fiscal Council) debate whether government debt is a benign addiction… or a ticking bomb.
To wrap things up, Anthony Miller from the UK Department for Business and Trade offers a distinctly British perspective on geopolitics and global economics.
Security & Defense – Europe’s Wake-Up Call
Security is no longer theoretical — it’s existential. Jamie Shea (Friends of Europe), Dr Georgios Kolliarakis (EU P2P Export Control Programme), and Giuseppe Spatafora (EUISS) dive into what strategic autonomy truly means for Europe, how NATO and the EU can complement — or compete — and why the Eastern Mediterranean now sits at the heart of global energy and defense discussions.
In an age when innovation can be both a weapon and a shield, Europe’s challenge is as philosophical as it is tactical.
A Forum with Personality
The Limassol Economic Forum isn’t just another conference — it’s a real-time think tank, where ideas meet insight and strategy meets storytelling. Each year, it turns Cyprus into a regional hub of influence — where leaders debate, challenge, and sometimes even rewrite the narrative. Here, conversations aren’t just observed. They move markets, shape mindsets, and, occasionally, make history.
Conference Information
Organizers: IMH and IN Business magazine
Platinum Partners: Bank of Cyprus, Deloitte Cyprus, Elias Neocleous & Co LLC
In collaboration with: Cyprus LSE Alumni Association
Technology Partner: ASBIS
Supporters: Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Ιnvest Cyprus, National Betting Authority
Media Sponsors: Alpha Cyprus, Cyprus Business News (CBN), GOLD magazine
For more information and registrations, please contact IMH:
Tel: +357 77777741│ Fax: +357 22679820
Email: events@imhbusiness.com
