Chief Scientist presents Cyprus' advantages as emerging tech hub at Japan forum

Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology Demetris Skourides presented the incentives Cyprus offers foreign investors in the fields of research, innovation and technology at a business forum in Japan this week.

According to a press release, Skourides highlighted the opportunities for collaborations in the fields of robotics, energy, artificial intelligence, shipping, space and biotechnology, during a business delegation visit to Japan, held under the auspices of the Minister of Energy, of Commerce and Industry, George Papanastasiou.

The Chief Scientist also highlighted Cyprus’ important role as an international business centre in the EU, the announcement adds.

As noted, in the context of the visit to Tokyo, the Ministry of Energy, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the Cyprus-Japan Business Association, and the Trade Centre in Japan organized a business forum, attracting the interest of foreign investors and Japanese businessmen.

Among others, the Minister of Energy, Trade and Industry, George Papanastasiou referred to Cyprus' strategy for attracting international businesses and specialised personnel, as well as the operation of the Business Facilitation Unit, which is the "Point of Contact" for businesses wishing to operate or expand their activities in Cyprus. At the same time, he emphasised the excellent prospects that exist today in Cyprus, in specific sectors, regarding development of activities and strengthening of partnerships with Japan.

In a presentation on "Cyprus as an emerging technology centre", the Chief Scientist analysed the long-term strategy "Cyprus 2035", which aims to make Cyprus one of the most favourable countries to live, work and invest.

He also referred to the expanding pace Cyprus witnesses in the field of technology and the emerging ecosystem of research and innovation, as well as the strategy and goals of the Government for the digital transition. The Chief Scientist also analysed the state's digitisation strategy, with particular emphasis on the Digital Citizen initiative.

At the same time, he referred to the upcoming plans that take into account the key challenges of our time, such as big data and artificial intelligence, and concluded by referring to the role and importance of cyber security in the efforts to transform Cyprus into an information portal and a regional hub.

He also highlighted the important role of the 7 Centres of Excellence operating in Cyprus.

The presentation was followed by a discussion panel during which Skourides moderated a discussion with Cypriot technology companies.

The Chief Scientist also held important meetings and discussed in greater detail the actions initiated by Cyprus to attract start-up companies.

In discussion with Peter Fatelning, Ministerial Adviser for Science, Innovation, Digital Technologies and other EU policies, key issues such as the EU Data Act initiative were raised.

According to the press release, particularly important were also the meetings with executives from companies such as REIMEI, ARTEVITE, JAOPS, Kinsui, MANSEISYA, Wargaming, World Wide Media, as well as with a representative of the EU-Japan Centre.