The Cyprus Organisation for Standardisation (CYS) highlighted the link between Cyprus’ cultural heritage, standardisation and innovation while strengthening European cooperation during the CEN and CENELEC Annual Meeting 2026.
According to a CYS press release, the high-level meetings provided opportunities to develop bilateral cooperation and advance Memoranda of Understanding between CYS and partner organisations, as well as among other national standardisation bodies at bilateral and regional level.
The contacts enhanced CYS’ position as an active and trusted partner in the European standardisation community and demonstrated its capacity to contribute to strategic cooperation and institutional dialogue, it said.
The meeting also provided a platform for networking and knowledge exchange among European and international stakeholders, facilitating the sharing of good practices and cooperation in addressing emerging regulatory, technological and market challenges.
Beyond its institutional role, the event promoted Cyprus’ cultural identity and heritage. Its official logo was inspired by the cross-shaped symbol of Pomos, an ancient Cypriot emblem associated with friendship, hospitality and the island’s long history and cultural wealth.
During the four-day programme, CYS worked with the Cyprus Handicraft Centre to host artisans who gave live demonstrations of traditional crafts, including Lefkaritika lace and Phythkiotika weaving.
Both forms of traditional craftsmanship are safeguarded through national Cypriot standards developed by CYS, the press release said.
Emphasis was also placed on passing traditional skills to younger generations. Students from Agios Neophytos Lyceum in Paphos presented contemporary uses of Phythkiotika textiles, demonstrating how tradition can inspire modern creative expression.
The programme also featured the first Cypriot standard in the field of historical and cultural heritage, concerning an ancient copper ingot from Marion. The presentation was accompanied by a live demonstration by a master coppersmith.
According to CYS, the activity offered delegates an insight into Cyprus’ centuries-old metallurgical and artisanal tradition, while illustrating the historical roots of standardisation on the island.
“Cypriot standardisation is not only about technical alignment, but also about preserving tradition, fostering innovation and connecting cultural heritage with modern industry and design,” CYS said.
It added that the parallel programme highlighted the close relationship between standardisation, culture and creativity, reinforcing Cyprus’ position as a country bridging tradition and innovation within Europe.
(Source: CNA)
