President Nikos Christodoulides has called on the newly-appointed members of the Cabinet to work tirelessly as they assume their duties, speaking at their swearing-in ceremony held at the Presidential Palace.
The new appointments include Energy Minister Michalis Damianos, Labour Minister Marinos Mousiouttas, Justice Minister Constantinos Fitiris, Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides, and Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Clea Hadjistephanou Papaellina. Marios Hartsiotis has also been appointed as Presidential Commissioner.
Addressing the new officials, President Christodoulides said they were taking over at a particularly demanding moment, marked by significant challenges “in the great effort to change our country,” noting that in just a few days the Republic of Cyprus will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
He urged them to work tirelessly, to fully familiarise themselves with all matters within their portfolios, and to make full use of the human resources and technocrats within their ministries. He also called on them to listen closely to citizens and society, and to respond to fair, legitimate and well-justified demands. The President further stressed the need to serve the public interest within the framework of legality, act with a firm commitment to transparency, and strictly adhere to the code of conduct.
Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed officials, new Energy Minister Michalis Damianos said they wish to be judged on the basis of transparency and respect for the values of democracy and meritocracy. He said they are determined to meet these expectations with integrity and professionalism.
“We are prepared to take difficult decisions for the good of the country, even if these carry political cost,” he said.
(Source: CNA)
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