Europe is facing multiple crises — and has little room for error. Geopolitical tensions are putting pressure on markets, economic uncertainty is complicating long-term planning, and technological disruption is rewriting the rules of competition. At the same time, EU member states must finance the green and digital transitions, strengthen defence, protect their social models and reduce strategic dependencies.
Against this turbulent backdrop, Cyprus must demonstrate that a small state can maintain a resilient economy, pursue a clear strategy and contribute meaningfully to Europe’s collective decisions.
This will frame the address by Makis Keravnos, Minister of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus, at the 17th Limassol Economic Forum, taking place on Friday, 23 October 2026, at Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Limassol.
Under the title “Navigating Through Turbulent Times: The Role of the European Union and Cyprus,” the Minister will explore how Europe and Cyprus can respond to an environment in which politics, economics, security and technology have become inseparable.
Europe Searches for a Strategy
Brussels is no longer dealing with one isolated crisis. It must prepare for an era in which crises are more frequent, increasingly interconnected and considerably more expensive.
The European Union must strengthen economic resilience without undermining fiscal stability. It must improve competitiveness without dismantling its social model. And it must pursue greater strategic autonomy while maintaining strong international partnerships.
The easy answers have run out.
Keravnos is expected to highlight the importance of closer European cooperation, resilient economies and a more coordinated response to external pressures. At stake is Europe’s ability to remain competitive, credible and capable of shaping events rather than simply reacting to them.
The Cyprus Equation
For Cyprus, global turbulence is not a distant risk. As a small and open economy, it is directly exposed to changes in trade, investment, energy and international markets.
Its geographical position, however, is both a challenge and an opportunity. Located at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, Cyprus can serve as a hub for economic, investment and regional cooperation.
Turning geography into strategic value will require sound public finances, stronger investment, new skills and the effective use of technology.
Keravnos brings experience from both the public and private sectors. He has served as Minister of Labour and Social Insurance, Minister of Finance, a senior banking executive and a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of Cyprus.
His address comes as Europe faces a defining choice: continue reacting to each new crisis or prepare systematically for the next one.
For Cyprus, the objective is equally clear — to remain stable, competitive and present at the European decision-making table.
The turbulence is unlikely to disappear. The real test is who learns to navigate it.
Conference Information
Organizers: IMH and IN Business magazine
Platinum Partners: Bank of Cyprus, bbf:, Deloitte Cyprus, Elias Neocleous & Co LLC, Finstella Ltd
In collaboration with: Cyprus LSE Alumni Association
Mobility Partner: Toyota
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
