The message that "the construction industry is not only projects, infrastructure and development. It is also people. It is social responsibility. It is an offering," was sent by the President of the Federation of Building Contractors Associations of Cyprus – OSEOK, Stelios Gavriel, in the context of the first OSEOK Gala Dinner.
The event, which took place on Thursday, 2 July, 2026, at the Hilton Nicosia, was dedicated to cooperation and social offering.
The Gala Dinner was attended by approximately 500 guests, representing the state, institutions and the entire construction industry.
President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides honoured the event with his presence.
The government's presence was significant with the participation of the Ministers of Interior, Defence and Agriculture, as well as the Government Spokesperson and the Deputy Minister to the President.
Also present were the General Secretary of AKEL, Stefanos Stefanou, the Vice President of DISY, Savia Orphanidou, as well as the President of the ALMA - Citizens for Cyprus movement, Odysseas Michaelides. Also present were the President of the Nicosia District Local Government Organisation, Constantinos Yiorkadjis, as well as the President of the Limassol District Local Government Organisation, Yiannis Tsouloftas.
Also present were members of parliament, mayors, representatives of institutional and professional bodies, as well as executives and professionals from the construction industry.
The broad presence of state and political leadership confirms the importance attributed to OSEOK and, more broadly, to the construction industry as one of the key pillars of development of the Cypriot economy.
This year's event had a special character, as OSEOK chose to support the Alkinoos Artemiou Foundation, which carries out important work for children with oncological and hematological diseases and their families.
The President of OSEOK, Stelios Gavriel, announced a contribution of €30,000 to support the Foundation's work.
In his speech, the President of OSEOK stated that "the construction industry is not only about projects, infrastructure and development. It is also about people. It is a social responsibility. It is an offering". At the same time, he stated that "professionals in the sector have learned to build projects that stand the test of time. Tonight, however, we are building something even more important: bridges of solidarity, offering and hope. Because the strongest foundations of a society are not made of concrete and iron. They are values, humanity and solidarity."
On his part, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, congratulated OSEOK for its long-standing and substantial contribution to the development of the country, while expressing the appreciation of both himself and the Government to all those who work daily for the progress of a sector that has long been a key driver of the development of the Cypriot economy. At the same time, he pointed out that the transition to a more sustainable development model is a common pursuit of the State, the Government and the private sector.
Referring to housing policy, Christodoulides emphasised that "we approach OSEOK as an essential and strategic partner for its implementation. Through continuous dialogue and cooperation, we can shape the conditions that will allow for the increase in housing supply, the containment of construction costs and the creation of sustainable housing developments for the benefit of our society."
In closing, he stated, "I am certain that he will continue to be a responsible interlocutor of the State and a valuable partner in our joint effort for a Cyprus with modern infrastructure, more opportunities for citizens and the main objective, a better quality of life for our citizens."
(Source: InBusinessNews)
