President Nikos Christodoulides has called on the newly appointed members of his Cabinet and commissioners to begin work immediately, telling them they have “zero grace period” as they take over their portfolios.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony at the Presidential Palace, the President said the new appointees must move swiftly to implement the government’s programme and deliver results for citizens.
‘Zero grace period’ for new appointees
Welcoming the new members of the government, Christodoulides said he was confident they would work “tirelessly, methodically and effectively” in carrying out their responsibilities.
He reminded them that the government’s programme is based on the principles of social liberalism and focuses on resolving the Cyprus issue, strengthening defence and security, maintaining a strong economy, modernising the state, improving transparency and enhancing citizens’ quality of life.
President defends government’s record
Christodoulides said he was highly satisfied with the government’s performance over the past three and a half years, arguing that it had delivered or launched many of its key commitments.
He said Cyprus’ economy is recording some of its strongest performances in recent years, enabling the government to support households, businesses and workers while investing in healthcare, education, social welfare and housing.
The President also highlighted major reforms, including tax reform, changes to vocational education, the planned pension reform, the digitalisation of public services and efforts to reduce bureaucracy.
Optimism over the Cyprus issue
The President also pointed to recent developments on the Cyprus issue, saying progress in recent months vindicates the government’s efforts to restart negotiations.
He referred to the visit of the United Nations Secretary-General to Cyprus after a 16-year absence and the European Union’s involvement through the appointment of a special envoy.
Christodoulides said he remained cautiously optimistic that the goal of ending the island’s division and achieving reunification could be realised.
Tribute to outgoing ministers
During his address, the President thanked outgoing ministers Alexis Vafeades, Maria Panayiotou and Lina Kassianidou for their contribution to the government’s work.
He described Vafeades as someone who “would stand in front to take the bullet”, while praising Panayiotou’s work ethic and Kassianidou’s commitment and contribution throughout her time in office.
‘The public interest above all’
Addressing the new ministers, Christodoulides urged them to familiarise themselves immediately with their portfolios, cooperate closely with state institutions and remain in regular contact with citizens, including those living in remote communities.
He stressed that public office carries significant responsibility and called on all members of the government to place the public interest above all else, uphold the rule of law and adhere strictly to the Cabinet’s Code of Conduct.
‘Work 24 hours a day’
Concluding his speech, Christodoulides described his administration as a government with a “clear centre-right political identity” that nevertheless serves all citizens regardless of their political beliefs.
“I call on you to work tirelessly, 24 hours a day, so that when the time comes for the final assessment, we will have lived up to the expectations of our people,” he said.
He added that the government’s objective remains to ensure the prosperity, progress and security of the Republic of Cyprus through its European and Western orientation.
Also read: Swearing-in ceremony for new Cabinet members completed
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