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ANNUAL REPORT

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2017 ______

European Parliament Liaison Office in Cyprus

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Contents

Abbreviations of EP’s Political Groups ...... 4 Foreword by the Head of the Office ...... 5 Activity Summary for 2017 ...... 7 Flagship Events ...... 12 Conference of Freedom of Press ...... 12 Conference on Circular Economy in the EU ...... 14 Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Treaty of Rome ...... 16 Conference on Greening Beaches and Sustainable Tourism ...... 17 Conference on Energy Union ...... 19 Celebrating EU Day ...... 20 Celebrating EU Day in the Turkish Cypriot Community ...... 22 ‘‘Quo Vadis Europa?’’ - Part A’ ...... 24 ‘‘Quo Vadis Europa?’’ - Part B’ ...... 26 Multi-thematic Events ...... 28 Visits from the EP ...... 40 MEPs’ Dialogue with Stakeholders ...... 50 Events for the EP Prizes ...... 55 European Citizen's Prize ...... 55 LUX Films Screenings ...... 57 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought ...... 58 Media Actions ...... 59 Social Media ...... 77 Special Focus on Youth ...... 82 The Role of the EPLO ...... 102 The Staff of the Office ...... 103

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Abbreviations of EP’s Political Groups

EPP European People's Party S&D Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats ECR European Conservatives and Reformists ALDE Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe GUE/ NGL European United Left–Nordic Green Left Greens–EFA The Greens–European Free Alliance EFDD Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy ENF Europe of Nations and Freedom NI Non-attached members

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Foreword

Dear reader,

2017 was a very active year for the European Parliament Information Office (EPIO)/ European Parliament Liaιson Office (EPLO) in Cyprus. This booklet aims to present an overview of our EPLO’s main activities for 2017 in accordance with the principles of accountability and transparency which govern the European Parliament (EP) as a whole.

The EP in its continuous effort to bridge the gap with the European citizens decided in the end of 2017 to upgrade its representation in the member states. To this end, the EPIOs were renamed to European Parliament Liaison Offices representing the EP as a whole in the member state each EPLO operates and with the main function of informing and communicating locally on behalf of the EP in order to ensure citizens understand the impact of the institution on their lives.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to my colleagues in the EPLO for their valuable contribution towards the successful materialisation of our activities in 2017. I would also like to extend my deepest thanks to our stakeholders and especially to the journalists who contributed decisively in implementing and promoting our goals. It is very important for the EPLO to be in close cooperation with Cypriot journalists and the media in general as they inform Cypriot European citizens about the debates and decisions taking place at the EP in both Brussels and Strasbourg.

In particular, I would like to thank the President of the House of Representatives, as well as the Permanent Secretary of the House and her collaborators for their remarkable support in implementing important actions, even in the plenum of the national Parliament. Undoubtedly, the House of Representatives presents the most important institutional interlocutor for the EPLO in Cyprus.

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Besides, it would be an omission not to extend my warmest thanks to the Minister of Education and Culture and his collaborators who facilitated our mission in presenting the importance of the institutional role of the EP to thousands of pupils in primary and secondary schools across Cyprus. Our main aim has been to explain to students that the EU is above everything a peace project that safeguards fundamental human rights for all. Maintaining close cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Culture is also vital for us in order to implement the pioneering “European Parliament Ambassador School Programme”, which for the second time this year is being implemented in all EU Member States. For the current school year 2017-2018, this highly successful programme involves the participation of twenty Cypriot Lyceums and Technical-Vocational Schools.

Undoubtedly, it would not be possible to successfully implement the mission of our Office, without the staunch support from the Cypriot MEPs. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all six Cypriot MEPs for their invaluable confidence towards me and my colleagues at the EPLO in Cyprus. Without their important contribution, we would not be able to achieve our aims. The Cypriot MEPs are the Ambassadors of our Office and are always at the epicentre of our activities.

Andreas Kettis Head of the European Parliament Liaison Office in Cyprus

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Calendar of our main activities for 2017

6 February 2017 (Nicosia) Conference on Freedom of Press with MEP and first EP Vice President Maired MCGUINNESS (EPP, Ireland)

20-22 February 2017 (Pafos/ Nicosia) Visit of the EP Committee on Culture and Education, headed by the Chair of the Committee Petra KAMMEREVERT (S&D, Germany)

23 February 2017 (Nicosia) Discussion on Rare Diseases with MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

24 February 2017 (Limassol) Conference on Circular Economy in the EU with MEPs Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR, Cyprus) and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

9 March 2017 (Nicosia) Roundtable discussion on the Economic Empowerment of Women with MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D, Cyprus)

24 March 2017 (Nicosia) Public debate on “Europe and the Mediterranean towards a new agenda” with MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D, Cyprus)

30 March 2017 (Nicosia) Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Treaty of Rome

31 March 2017 (Famagusta) Seminar addressed to Turkish Cypriot teachers of ΚΤÖS union entitled “Train the Trainers”, with MEPs Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D, Cyprus) and Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

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8 April 2017 (Troodos) A two-day seminar for journalists on Gender Mainstreaming to mark IWD with MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

21 April 2017 (Nicosia) Working lunch of MEP Lefteris CHROSTOFOROU (EPP, Cyprus) with stakeholders on the emerging developments concerning taxation in the EU

28 April 2017 (Ayia Napa) Conference on Greening Beaches and Sustainable Tourism with MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR, Cyprus)

5 May 2017 (Larnaca) Conference on Energy Union with MEPs Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP, Cyprus) and Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

12 May 2017 (Nicosia) Press briefing of MEP Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE/NGL, Cyprus) with journalists on working conditions and precarious employment

13 May 2017 (Nicosia) Celebrations for Europe Day with MEPs Lefteris CHROSTOFOROU (EPP, Cyprus), Costas MAVRIDES (S&D, Cyprus), Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D, Cyprus) and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

20 May 2017 (Nicosia) Celebrations for Europe Day with stakeholders and members of the Turkish Cypriot Community

22 May 2017 (Nicosia) Working lunch of MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D, Cyprus) with stakeholders on the formation of the economic model in Cyprus in view of developments concerning the new corporate tax in the EU

22 May 2017 (Nicosia) Roundtable discussion on the gender perspective of youth unemployment with MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D, Cyprus)

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28 May 2017 (Nicosia) Supporting the Cyprus 4th Pride Parade with MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

9 June 2017 (Nicosia) Working lunch of MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D, Cyprus) with stakeholders on internet connectivity in local communities

10 June 2017 (Famagusta) Celebrations for Europe Day with stakeholders and members of the Turkish Cypriot Community

21 June 2017 (Nicosia) Supporting bi-communal events: “Bi-communal Choir for Peace in Cyprus - 20 Years of Peace Activities” with MEPs Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE/NGL, Cyprus) and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

30 June 2017 (Nicosia) Working lunch of MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR, Cyprus) with stakeholders on the effectiveness of the EU’s development policy

7-8 July 2017 (Nicosia) Visit of the EP Panama Papers Inquiry Committee, headed by MEP Werner LANGEN (EPP, Germany)

14 July 2017 (Nicosia) Press briefing of MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D, Cyprus) with journalists on internet connectivity in local communities

19 September 2017 (Nicosia) The first part of “Quo Vadis Europa?’’ Conference on the Future of the EU and the Youth

20 - 22 September 2017 (Larnaca, Nicosia) Visit of the EP Committee of Petitions, headed by MEP Pál CSÁKY (EPP, Slovakia)

22 September 2017 (Nicosia) Public event on the European Mobility Week

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29 September 2017 (Limassol) National Award Ceremony for the European Citizen's Prize 2017 to Dr Amerikos ARGYRIOU with MEPs Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D, Cyprus), Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE/NGL, Cyprus) and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus)

27 October 2017 (Nicosia) Press briefing of MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR, Cyprus) with journalists on the EU development policy and the role of EP

2 November 2017 (Nicosia) Economist conference with MEP and first EP Vice President Mairead McGUINNESS (EPP, Ireland)

7, 8, 9 November 2017 (Nicosia) Screenings of the three finalist films of the LUX Prize 2017

10 November 2017 (Nicosia) Working lunch of MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus) with stakeholders on the future of the accession of Turkey to the EU

28 November 2017 (Nicosia) Conference on “Fake News: Phenomenon of Manipulation in the Modern World” with MEP Stelios KOULOGLOU (GUE/NGL, Greece)

1 December 2017 (Nicosia) Press briefing of MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D, Cyprus) with journalists on the Banking Union and corporate taxation

8 December 2017 (Nicosia) Official visit of the President of the EP, Antonio TAJANI (EPP, Italy) to Cyprus

8 December 2017 (Nicosia) The second part of “Quo Vadis Europa?” Conference: A debate of EP President Antonio TAJANI (EPP, Italy) with young Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots on the future of the EU

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13 December 2017 (Nicosia) Televised programme on the EP Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought with MEP Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP, Cyprus)

15 December 2017 (Nicosia) Press briefing of MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL, Cyprus) with journalists on the Panama Papers and the EU - Turkey relations

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Flagship Events

Conference on Freedom of Press ______

6 February 2017

The EPIO in Cyprus co-organized the Ms MCGUINNESS emphasized that conference “Challenges of Freedom of the work of journalists should be Press: current situation in Cyprus and honored and supported. She pledged worldwide”. MEP and Vice-President that she will personally work very hard of the EP, Ms Maired MCGUINNESS to ensure that the Media in Europe (IE,EPP), through a video recorded remain free, and stated that outside of message elaborated that the EP Europe, the idea of a strong, strongly supports Media and Freedom independent and free press will be of Press. promoted.

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The speakers of the conference were Ms Dunja MIJATOVIC, Rapporteur of the OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) for Press Freedom Issues, Mr Jonathan LUNDQVIST, President of the Swedish Part of the Organization Reporters Without Borders, Mr Andrey RICHTER, Senior Representative Director of OSCE for Freedom of Press, Mr Janne VIRKUNEN, former editor of the newspaper 'Helsing Sanomat' Finland, Mr. George FRANGOU, President of the Union of Cyprus Journalists (UCJ), Mr Sami ÖZUSLU, President of Turkish Cypriot Journalists Union, Ms Maria ANGELI, Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies (MIGS) and Mr Mete HATAY from the PRIO Cyprus Centre.

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Conference on Circular Economy in the EU ______

24 February 2017

The conference “Cyprus in the between Cypriot and EU relevant Strategic Road to a Circular Economy” policies. The main message of the was organized by the EPIO in Cyprus, conference was the need to implement along with the Technological the innovative model of circular University of Cyprus and the Office of economy. the Environment Commissioner. The conference focused on the important MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR) role of the EU regarding Circular taking into account the draft Action Economy and the need for alignment Plan, underlined that the Republic of Cyprus must play a very active role in

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these new actions and that there will During the welcoming speech of the be many environmental, business and Head of the EPIO, Andreas KETTIS, financial benefits. relevant audiovisual material from EuroparlTV was projected. The On his behalf, MEP Takis conference was under the auspices of HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE) stated that the Mayor of Limassol, Nicos we should distinguish the concept of NICOLAIDES. globalization (which has terrible negative characteristics) from the concept of universality which means “a common Culture, a joint effort for science development, concerning waste issues and Circular Economy developments".

The conference was addressed by the Mayor of the Greek island of Tilos, Maria KAMMA - ALIFERI and her Specialist Collaborator, Efstathios KONTOS, who spoke about the "miracle" of the specific island, while presentations were made by the Environment Commissioner, Ioanna PANAYIOTOU, Associate Professor of Cyprus University of Technology, Theodoros ZACHARIADES, and Lecturer of the Open University of Cyprus, Antonis ZORPAS.

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Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of

the Treaty of Rome ______

30 March 2017

The Head of the EPIO in Cyprus and The EPIO in Cyprus and the EC the Head of the EC Representative Representation in Cyprus, along with also addressed the event. the Press and Information Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the People who attended the event, Embassy of Italy in Cyprus, jointly among them many diplomats, organized an event to honour the government officials and students, had completion of 60 years since the the opportunity to enjoy a rich signing of the Treaty of Rome. photographic exhibition on the historic anniversary of the Treaty of Rome. The importance of the Rome Treaty was analyzed by the Government Spokesman Nicos CHRISTODOULIDES as well as by professor Michalis ATTALIDES and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alexandros ZENON.

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Conference on Greening Beaches and Sustainable Tourism

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The event took place at Nissi Beach The panel included MEP Eleni Hotel in Ayia Napa under the auspices THEOCHAROUS (ECR), the of the Mayor of Ayia Napa and was Environment Commissioner Ioanna organized by the EPIO in cooperation PANAYIOTOU and the Chairman of with the Cypriot Commissioner of the Cyprus Association of Sustainable Environment and the Cyprus Tourism Initiative (CSTI), Philippos Sustainable Tourism Initiative (CSTI). DROUSIOTIS. The event was also

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addressed by the Mayor of Ayia Napa, During the event, leaflets were Yiannis KAROUSOS. distributed to the stakeholders containing information about “Green MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR) Beaches”. At the end of the event, a highlighted the fact that the sustainable cleaning campaign of Nissi Beach was tourism is very high on the agenda of carried out with the participation of the the European Union. panelists and pupils from Ayia Napa Elementary School.

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Conference on Energy Union ______

5 May 2017

The EPIO in cooperation with the b) The Importance of Energy Security Municipality of Larnaca and Europe for the EU Direct Larnaca organised a c) Presentation of the Project “Euro- conference, informing stakeholders on Asian Electrical Interconnection”. the latest developments concerning The two MEPs elaborated on the the issue of setting up an Energy Union Energy Union presenting the positions in the EU. of their political groups on the matter.

The following subjects were Academics and experts on energy presented, followed by a political union highlighted several aspects of discussion with two Cypriot MEPs the topic. The conference was held Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP) and under the auspices of the Mayor of Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE): Larnaca, Mr Andreas VYRAS, who a) The Legal status of the Exclusive made a welcoming address. Economic Zone (EEZ)

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Celebrating EU Day ______

13 May 2017

The EPIO, the EC Representation and covered the event and invited listeners the Press and Information Office to join. It is estimated that more than organised an open-air "informative 2.500 people participated at the event" at the Park of Acropolis - Europe Day celebrations. Nicosia in order to celebrate Europe Day. PR and information material stressing the actions of the EP were distributed.

MEPs Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP), Costas MAVRIDES (S&D), Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D), Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE), underlined the meaning and the symbolism of the EU Day during a radio live link.

The 15 EU Embassies that participated at the event, offered culinary experiences as well as information and the national contact points dealing with European programmes, distributed leaflets and gave information to interested citizens.

Volunteering organisations also participated at the event. A live link

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Celebrating EU Day in the Turkish Cypriot Community ______Institutions and the principles and 20 May 2017 and values of the EU. 10 June 2017 These two actions had the form of

“informal festivals” as they gave the The EPIO in Cyprus celebrated Europe opportunity to citizens to get Day participating in two events, open acquainted with general and specific to the public in the northern part of the information on the EU. The events took island which is not under the effective place at two -very busy for families, control of the Government of the students- public squares. Republic of Cyprus. The EPLO set up an info point to The two events - northern part of distribute PR and information material Nicosia 20/05/2017 and Famagusta highlighting the particular legislative 10/06/2017 - were organised by the and political role of the EP within the European Commission institutional setup of the Union. Representation in Cyprus in collaboration with the EU Project The EPLO, EC Representation and Support Office and around 10 other participants had interactive Embassies of EU countries in Cyprus. discussions with citizens focusing on The aim of the two events was the the role and priorities of the EU. promotion of the image of the EU

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‘‘Quo Vadis Europa?’’ Part A’ opening speech was made by the ______President of the House of Representatives, Demetris 19 September 2017 SYLLOURIS, who decorated the distinguished academician with the medal of the House of Representatives The ‘‘Quo Vadis Europa?’’ conference in recognition of her contribution in took place on 19 September 2017 and promoting European integration. was attended by significant number of citizens. This year's topic was “The MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE) Youth and the Future of the European attended the event. Union”. The well-known academician and President of the European Cultural Center of Delphi, Eleni GLYKATZI - ARVELER, was the key-note speaker attracting the keen interest of the media and of the citizens, who actively participated in a discussion that followed.

The Conference was organized by the EPIO in Cyprus, the University of Cyprus (Jean Monnet Chair 2001) and was held under the auspices of the President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus. The

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‘‘Quo Vadis Europa?’’ Part B’ ‘‘We need to believe in young people, by implementing specific policies and Debate of the EP President actions in Europe’’ he said stressing TAJANI with the Cypriot that ‘‘it is important for the youth to youth on the Future of have a job but most important of all is Europe to have a dream. Our responsibility in ______the EU is to give you this dream of a good future in a strong Europe»’’. 8 December 2017 President TAJANI urged young people to widen their horizons and turn towards expertise, research, tourism, The importance of investing in the and the digital technology adding that youth was one of the key messages ‘‘we must invest more in education and delivered by the EP President Antonio innovation in order to stop brain TAJANI during the event ‘‘Quo Vadis draining from Europe’’. Europa: Debate with the Cypriot youth on the Future of Europe’’ that was In the context of this lively exchange organised on 8 December 2017 at the with students and young Cypriots, EU House in Nicosia by the EPIO in President TAJANI admitted that Cyprus. Europe is not perfect and requires

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changes stressing at the same time that ‘‘to change Europe is not to kill Europe!’’. Without Europe, he said, ‘‘it is impossible to compete on a global level, to defend our interests, our values and our identity’’.

Replying to questions on the Cyprus issue, President TAJANI said that the position of the EP is clear on the matter underlining that ‘‘we want the unity of this country. But we need to respect the UN and EU rules’’ adding that the EP supports the dialogue between the two communities and ‘‘is against the presence of the occupying Turkish army in northern Cyprus’’.

On the role of the EU in the refugee crisis, President TAJANI argued that countries like Greece or Italy need more solidarity since this is not a Mediterranean but a European problem.

Speaking on the continent’s relations with its immediate neighbourhood, the President explained that in order for Europe to undertake a leading role, it must reform itself concluding that ‘‘it would be a mistake to leave the Middle East and Africa in the hands of Americans, Russians and the Chinese who understandably do not serve the interests of Europeans but their own national interests’’.

Furthermore, President TAJANI acknowledged that there is some distance between the European Institutions and the European citizens and stressed that his role is to reduce this distance in view of the European elections in 2019.

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Multi-thematic events

Workshop on Rare Diseases ______

23 February 2017

The EPΙO in Cyprus in collaboration with the Cyprus Alliance for Rare Diseases, organized a public event to discuss the need to adopt and implement strategies to deal and manage rare diseases.

MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE, Cyprus) attended the meeting, citing the European policy framework and suggested steps that must be taken on a national level.

It is worth noting that prior to the event, our Office helped for the organisation of a press conference where it was announced the establishment of a center for the purpose of informing and providing support and education for people with rare diseases.

Both the announcement and the subsequent discussion during the workshop, strengthened the effort of society awareness about the problems and the implications of rare diseases that patients, their families and the state face.

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Roundtable Discussion for the Economic Empowerment of Women ______

9 March 2017

The EPΙO in Cyprus organized a that are applicable throughout Europe, roundtable discussion concerning the and are specifically proposed by the Economic Empowerment of Women. EP. The event took place on 9 March at the EU House in Nicosia. Attendees had The current situation in Cyprus was the opportunity to discuss and presented by the Minister of Labour, exchange ideas on the current Welfare and Social Security, Mrs Zeta situation in Cyprus about women’s EMILIANIDOU. rights and make proposals for further improvements. Other participants such as representatives of women's political MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D), via a organizations and non-governmental video recorded message, referred to organizations discussed, in a lively policies on women’s rights debate, issues around the theme of the economic empowerment of women.

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Europe and the Mediterranean towards a new agenda ______

24 March 2017

The public debate “Europe and the problems and weaknesses, along with Mediterranean towards a new agenda” opportunities for improvement and focused on the challenges that the EU integration of the European project. is facing in the wider Mediterranean region and the next steps that need to The position and the role of the EP be taken. The discussion was jointly concerning the foreign and regional organized by the EPIO in Cyprus and policies were covered by MEP the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D) who as a Republic of Cyprus. member of the Committee of Foreign Affairs of the EP, expressed his own The guest of honor and keynote perspective and views on the matter. speaker was the former Foreign The event was attended by many Minister of Spain and former EU foreign and Cypriot diplomats as well Special Representative for the Middle as academics. East, Miguel Angel MORATINOS, who drew upon examples from his rich diplomatic experience in European affairs, and highlighted political

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Furthermore, they made reference to “Train the Trainers” seminar current developments regarding the in the Turkish Cypriot Cyprus issue and the prospects of community settlement. Both MEPs participated in a constructive dialogue with the ______Turkish Cypriot teachers.

31 March 2017 During the second part of the event the EPIO in Cyprus presented to the The EPIO in Cyprus and the Cyprus teachers a booklet for children, Turkish Teachers’ Trade Union containing information about the EU, (ΚΤÖS) organized an informative labelled: “Travelling and Learning seminar about the EU, exclusively for about Europe” The booklet was Turkish Cypriot teachers. translated into Turkish and is distributed to primary school pupils. In During the first part of the event MEPs a simple and interactive way this Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D) and booklet teaches pupils how the EU Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE) informed functions. A USB with a Power Point the attendees about the role of the EP presentation containing content from as well as their own personal goals as the booklet was also given to the MEPs. teachers.

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During the visit to Famagusta (which is the two MEPs also had the opportunity not under the effective control of the to be informed about programs and government of the Republic of Cyprus) projects financed by the EU.

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Roundtable discussion on the gender perspective of youth unemployment

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The EPIO along with the NGO Cyprus A representative from the Ministry of Gender Research Centre (CGRC) organized a roundtable discussion to Labour gave the local perspective present the findings of the CGRC while the President of the Cyprus research project on the gender Youth Organisation presented the perspective of youth unemployment. problems and challenges the youth is The event was under the auspices of facing. the Minister of Labour and Social Insurance, Mrs Zeta EMILIANIDOU. The objective of the discussion was to promote EP’s legislative role and in Cypriot MEP Costas MAVRIDES general EU’s policies on youth (S&D) elaborated on the EU policies unemployment. presenting EP’s legislation on labour and unemployment.

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Supporting the Cyprus Pride ______

28 May 2017

Cyprus’ fourth annual LGBTI Pride Parade took place in Nicosia under the slogan “Speak Love”. Almost 6.000 citizens and the Cyprus political leadership marched from the municipal gardens through the walled city of Nicosia.

The 2017 LGBTI pride parade aimed to combat homophobic and transphobic hate speech. As part of the Pride Days there were film screenings and theatre events, a human library, parties, panel discussions and even a free yoga course. The parade was held in the city centre and a party was held in the municipal gardens.

Among others, the EPIO Press Attaché Alexandra ATTALIDES and the Head of the EC Representation in Cyprus Georgios MARKOPOULIOTIS addressed the event which was under the auspices of the President of the

Republic of Cyprus.

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Supporting bi-communal music and songs important bi- events: communal events. Since 2000, the ‘‘Bi-communal Choir for choir has managed to become widely known and appeared in numerous Peace in Cyprus - 20 Years events both in Cyprus and abroad, of Peace Activities’’ at the including London, Istanbul, Athens, buffer zone in Nicosia Bratislava, Debrecen in Hungary and ______Lebanon. In 2007, it performed in an event at the EP premises in Brussels 21 June 2017 upon invitation from a Cypriot Member. In that context, the EPIO contributed to

the organization of the event in The Bi-communal Choir for Peace in recognition of the importance and role Cyprus organized a cultural event of this NGO. MEP Takis during which the 20 years activities of HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE) and Neoklis the choir were presented. The Bi- SYLIKIOTIS (GUE) addressed the communal Choir for Peace in Cyprus is event via a video message. an NGO, which was established back in May 1997 by Greek Cypriots and Beyond any doubt, the event gave the Turkish Cypriots who share the same opportunity to stakeholders and vision of a reunited and peaceful citizens to get acquainted with the role common country and at the same time of the EP as a soft power in promoting the same passion for music. peace and co-existence in Europe.

The event took place at the buffer zone During the last 20 years, this bi- in Nicosia, which is under the UN communal NGO has given more than (UNFICYP) control. 250 performances marking with their

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European Mobility Week Turkish and Greek for the two weeks ______prior to the event. Its aim was to inform the public about smart mobility. 22 September 2017

The European Mobility Week was once again celebrated this year by the EPIO in Cyprus. The event took place on 22 September 2017, at the Faneromeni Square in Nicosia and it was co- organized with the EC Representation in Cyprus, the Municipality of Nicosia, the Department of Environment and the Press and Information Office of Cyprus.

Special emphasis was given on “smart travel”, especially on Nicosia's smaller buses that circulate around the city centre daily, connecting the historical centre and the contemporary city with frequent itineraries.

As part of European Mobility Week, a trilingual online survey competition run on our social media channel in English,

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Annual Conference ‘‘The Economist’’ with the support of the

EPIO in Cyprus ______

2 November 2017

“In an increasingly polarized world and The 13th Cyprus Summit of The amongst people that are more Economist magazine, entitled “Europe polarized, the challenge is to highlight on the move, Cyprus in the fast lane?” the value of compromise and to was organized in Nicosia on 2 achieve good ones”. November in cooperation with the EPIO in Cyprus. The Summit was H.E. Mr Nikos ANASTASIADES, opened by the First Vice-President of President of the Republic of Cyprus, the European Parliament, Mairead also gave a speech during the McGUINNESS (EPP) referring to the conference. future of Europe and the main challenges ahead.

Mrs McGUINNESS expressed her conviction that the EU will overcome the challenges is faced with and will emerge even stronger in the future. Among others, she said the following:

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Visits from the EP

The EPLO has a role in accompanying official delegations from the EP. For example, when parliamentary committees / delegations, rapporteurs or the President of the Parliament come to visit. Rapporteurs are MEPs with a mandate from the EP to negotiate European legislation with Member States.

In 2017 the President of the EP, Antonio TAJANI, held an official visit to Cyprus.

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SYLLOURIS and participated in a joint Visit of the Committee on meeting with the House Standing Culture and Education Committee on Educational Affairs and ______Culture, as well as the House Standing Committee on Foreign and European 20-22 February 2017 Affairs.

Between 20-22 February a CULT Committee delegation headed by its Chair MEP Petra KAMMEREVERT (S&D) visited Pafos, one of the two 2017 Cultural Capitals of Europe.

The delegation had meetings with Members of the organising committee of Pafos2017, and visited cultural venues and activities organised in the framework of the Cultural Capital Project. The Mayor of Pafos, Phedonas PHEDONOS, accompanied them in a guided tour of Pafos archaeological sites and the Minister of Education and Culture Kostas KADIS hosted an official dinner for the delegation. The Committee was also received by the President of the House of Representatives Demetris

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The visit ended with a press issue at the EP for actions to protect conference at the EU House. The Cyprus cultural heritage. Chair of the Committee MEP Petra KAMMEREVERT (S&D) referred to The committee consisted of the Chair the very important work that was of the Committee MEP Petra implemented by Pafos2017, the KAMMEREVERT (S&D) and MEPs smallest ever city to participate in this Silvia COSTA (S&D), Andrzej programme. The media focused ZDROJEWSKI (EPP), Julie WARD particularly on her statements about (S&D), Momchil NEKOV (S&D), the delegation’s astonishment on the Jadwiga WISNIEWSKA (ECR), Helga extend of the destruction of the cultural TRÜPEL (Greens/EFA). The heritage of Cyprus in the areas which committee was accompanied by the are not under the control of the Cypriot MEPs Costas MAVRIDES Republic and their pledge to bring this (S&D) and Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D).

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Visit of the PANA Committee ______

7 - 8 July 2017

A delegation of the PANA Committee The delegation of the EP consisted of which examines the well-known case the chair MEP Werner LANGEN (EPP) of tax evasion "Panama Papers", and MEPs Frank ENGEL (EPP), Angel conducted an official visit to Cyprus on DZHAMBAZKI (ECR), Maité 7 and 8 July2017. PAGAZAURTUNDUA (ALDE), Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE), Jordi SOLE As part of its two-day stay in Cyprus (Greens - EFA), Barbara KAPPEL the delegation had separate meetings (ENL), Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU with the ministers of Finance and (EPP), Cătălin Sorin IVAN (S&D) and Commerce, Industry, Tourism and Costas MAVRIDES (S&D). Energy as well as with representatives of the Ministry of Interior. Furthermore, it had the opportunity to meet representatives of the banking sector in Cyprus.

The delegation also had a working dinner with the Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ioannis KASOULIDES.

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PETI Delegation visit ______Communications and Works; Agriculture, Rural Development and 20-22 September 2017 Environment. Furthermore the delegation of the EP met with the

representative of the Office of the The EP Delegation of the PETI Commissioner for the Environment, Committee conducted a fact-finding the Auditor General of the Republic mission to Larnaca, Cyprus on 20-22 and the members of the Parliamentary September 2017. The purpose of the Committee on the Environment and mission was to provide a follow-up to a the Transport Committee of the House series of petitions by local residents of of Representatives. Larnaca related to environmental and health concerns due to the creation of Before concluding its fact-finding an industrial port in Larnaca and the mission the delegation visited the consequences of its operation in the municipality of Aradippou, where it had broader area. The delegation initially meetings with the Mayor of Aradippou, had a meeting with the Mayor of Evangelos EVANGELIDES, the Larnaca, Andreas VYRAS, and Ombudswoman and the petitioners. afterwards a meeting with the citizens The delegation of the EP consisted of who submitted the petitions. the chair Pál CSÁKY (EPP) and MEPs

Miltiadis KYRKOS (S&D), Angela On the second day of its visit, the PETI VALLINA (GUE), Igor ŠOLTES committee held meetings with high (Greens) and was accompanied by level representatives of the Ministries MEPs Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D) of Energy, Trade, Industry and and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE). Tourism; Interior; Transport,

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Official visit of Antonio TAJANI

8 December 2017

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The President of the EP, Antonio the media the EP President TAJANI, paid an official visit to Cyprus addressed the plenary of the House of at the invitation of Demetris Representatives. SYLLOURIS, President of the House of Representatives. President TAJANI After his visit to the House of was received by the President of the Representatives, President TAJANI Republic of Cyprus, Nikos went to the House of the European ANASTASIADES, at the Presidential Union where he had a meeting with Palace. Following their bilateral Cypriot MEPs. A debate on the future meeting the two Presidents made of Europe with Greek Cypriot and statements to the Press. Turkish Cypriot young people followed with President TAJANI expressing his Afterwards President TAJANI went to positions on important European the House of Representatives and issues and answering related had a bilateral meeting with President questions. SYLLOURIS. After the statements to

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President TAJANI met President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos ANASTASIADES at the Presidential Palace

An official welcome ceremony added, saying that the EP supports the reserved for Heads of State was negotiations to solve the problem while organized at the Presidential Palace, sticking to the parameters of the UN. where the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos ANASTASIADIS, President ANASTASIADES said that welcomed President TAJANI. he informed his interlocutor about the latest developments on the Cyprus Following the bilateral meeting, issue, reiterating that a new President TAJANI stated that the EP is conference on Cyprus should be well supporting Cyprus in order to put an prepared. Speaking about the end to the military occupation by excellent state of relations between Turkey in northern Cyprus. "We are Cyprus and the EP, President convinced that with your own ANASTASIADES said that Cyprus is a determination the reunification of strong supporter of the key institutional Cyprus will be a tangible reality and the role played by the EP in bringing the island can become an independent EU closer to the citizens. and sovereign country as a whole" he

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TAJANI: ‘‘EP supports Cyprus’ efforts to put an end to the military occupation of the northern part of the island by Turkey’’.

ANASTASIADES: ‘‘Cyprus is a strong supporter of the key institutional role played by the EP’’.

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President TAJANI addressed the formal sitting of the House of Representatives

After the meeting with the President of island is recovering rapidly at a rate of the Republic of Cyprus, President growth higher than many other EU TAJANI visited the House of countries. The EP is by your side for a Representatives were he had a solution that will put an end to the meeting with Demetris SYLLOURIS, Turkish occupation of northern Cyprus President of the House, before and for a reunification that will be addressing a special plenary session based on the parameters of the United of the House. Nations and on the values and principles of the EU. National In his plenary address, President parliaments have an important role to TAJANI stated: “Over the past 10 play in reforming the EU so that it can years, our Union has been facing one continue to respond to the needs of of the worst economic crises and European citizens. We are united and Cyprus has paid a very high price. We committed to a Union of results”. are now on the road to recover and this

TAJANI: “The EP is next to you for a solution that will end the Turkish occupation”.

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MEPs’ Dialogue with

Stakeholders

A very interesting discussion between Working Lunch of MEP MEP Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP) Lefteris CHROSTOFOROU and stakeholders from the public and (EPP) with stakeholders private sector was conducted in the context of a working lunch that was organized by the EPIO in Cyprus at the “The emerging EU House in Nicosia. developments concerning taxation in the EU” The subject of the working lunch was ______“The emerging developments concerning taxation in the EU”. The 21 April 2017 MEP referred to the economic model of Cyprus and the pressure it undergoes d ue to the new EU policies following the outbreak of the financial crisis. Mr CHRISTOFOROU also briefed the stakeholders about the legislative initiatives of the EP in this area and the ongoing discussions in Brussels.

The MEP had the opportunity to hear the views and concerns of the stakeholders with a specific interest in tax issues.

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Working lunch of MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D) with stakeholders

“Formation of the economic model in Cyprus in view of the new corporate tax in the Mr MAVRIDES informed the EU” stakeholders about the developments ______in corporate tax issues so far, especially at the EP level. There was 22 May 2017 also an exchange of views on the management of possibly serious negative consequences for Cyprus in MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D) and the future, since the Cypriot economy stakeholders discussed the subject of relies heavily on offering services to corporate taxation at a working lunch companies that choose Cyprus as their held at the House of the EU in Nicosia. tax base because of given the low The consultation between Mr corporate tax rate offered. MAVRIDES and stakeholders examined the “Formation of the Finally, following an in depth exchange economic model in Cyprus in view of of views and a constructive debate, the the new corporate tax in the EU”, as a participants concluded that Cyprus result of two proposed directives on the together with other like-minded common corporate tax base and the member states have to promote their common consolidated corporate tax interests in the field in a more concrete base. and strengthened way.

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Working Lunch of MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D) with stakeholders

“Internet connectivity in local communities” ______

9 June 2017

A roundtable discussion with MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS and stakeholders took place at the EU House concerning the proposal of the Εuropean Commission for Internet connectivity in local communities.

MEP Demetris PAPDAKIS (S&D) is the shadow Rapporteur on the proposal in the Committee on Regional Development.

The aim of the proposal is to provide free and high-quality internet access to residents and visitors across the EU such as parks, squares, libraries and public buildings. The program, which named WiFi4EU, with a total budget of 120 million will finance municipalities with vouchers for free wireless connection in areas where there is no such connection from a public or private zone.

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Working lunch of MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR) with stakeholders

“The effectiveness of the EU’s development policy” ______

30 June 2017

A particularly interesting debate on the EU's Development Policy between MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR) and the relevant public and private stakeholders of Cyprus took place during a working lunch organized by the EPIO in Cyprus.

During the debate entitled “The effectiveness of the EU’s development policy” Ms THEOCHAROUS had the opportunity to inform the stakeholders about the EU development policy and related EU programs stressing among others that the EU is the biggest international aid donor but it could achieve much more. The MEP pointed out that EU financial assistance should bypass corrupted governments and should be channeled directly to the societies in order to achieve the objectives to a greater extent.

Ms THEOCHAROUS had the opportunity to hear the views and suggestions of the stakeholders coming from the public and private sector and the non-governmental organizations.

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MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE) Working lunch of MEP had the opportunity to discuss with Takis HADJIGEORGIOU specialists and academics about the (GUE) with stakeholders current state of Turkey's accession perspective. The discussion in the framework of a working lunch “Turkey’s accession organized by the EPLO in Cyprus took perspective” place on 10 November 2017 at the EU ______House.

10 November 2017 Mr HADJIGEORGIOU had the opportunity to exchange views on the matter whereas the fruitful discussion that followed showed the strong interest of Cypriot stakeholders in the accession perspective of the neighbouring country.

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Events for the EP Prizes

European Citizen's Prize ______

29 September 2017

The national award ceremony for the Dr ARGYRIOU, visibly touched, European Citizen’s Prize took place in thanked all those who proposed his Limassol on 29 September 2017. The candidacy while making special European Citizen’s Prize was awarded reference to the difficulties and to Dr Amerikos ARGYRIOU for his challenges that he encountered during contribution to science and society, as all these years. well as for upgrading the health standard and the medical profession in MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D), Cyprus. referred to the work of Dr ARGYRIOU and praised his valuable scientific and social contribution.

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The ceremony that took place at the former Commissioner Androulla Town Hall of Limassol was attended VASSILIOU and the Former President among others by MEPs Demetris of the Republic of Cyprus George PAPADAKIS (S&D), Neoklis VASSILIOU. SYLIKIOTIS (GUE), Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE), the Mayor of Limassol, Nikos NIKOLAIDES, the First Lady Andri ANASTASIADOU,

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LUX Films Screenings ______

7, 8, 9 November 2017

The EPLO welcomed the Cypriot cinema fans to the world of European Cinema. The screenings of BPM, SAMI BLOOD and WESTERN attracted many cinema fans at Pantheon Theater in Nicosia, and led to discussions and fruitful reflections on social as well as other current issues that concern the EU citizens.

The screenings of the films were conducted in collaboration with the Friends of Cinema Society and supported by the Embassy of Austria, the Embassy of Sweden, the French Institute and the Goethe Institute.

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Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought with an academic, a member of the ______national parliament as well as with students the role of the EP in the field 13 December 2017 of human rights and the Sakharov Prize, which for the year 2017 was awarded to the Democratic Opposition A special TV programme with the of Venezuela. MP Anna support of the EPIO in Cyprus was THEOLOGOU, academic Kalliopi broadcasted by public television AGAPIOU IOSIFIDOU and three (RIK2) on 13 December 2017 students from the University of Cyprus promoting the Sakharov Prize 2017 took part in the discussion. and highlighting the role of the EP in the protection of human rights worldwide. One of the core values of the EU is the respect of the human rights.

The EP supports human rights through its annual Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. MEP Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP) discussed

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Media actions

Conference and Press Briefing ‘‘Rare disorders: Their National and European Dimension’’ ______

23 February 2017

The EPLO in Cyprus and the Cyprus Alliance for Rare Disorders organised on 23 February a seminar and a press conference at the EU House, entitled “Rare disorders: Their National and European Dimension”. The conference and press briefing were under the auspices of MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL) key speaker on both occasions.

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Press Seminar: ‘‘Gender Mainstreaming in Legislation and Policies’’ ______

8 April 2017

A press seminar on ‘‘Gender The seminar included 4 workshops by Mainstreaming in Legislation and experts on: Policies’’ was organised by the EPLO 1) Gender Mainstreaming in Cyprus in collaboration with the 2) Women in Power Mediterranean Institute of Gender 3) Women in Peace Studies (MIGS) on 8 April. The 4) Violence against Women objective was to present the work and role of the EP in promoting gender The seminar concluded with a equality and to build capacity among presentation by MEP Takis key journalists. HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE) followed by a discussion with the journalists and the experts.

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Press Briefing with MEP Neoklis SYLYKIOTIS (GUE) ______

12 May 2017

The EPLO in Nicosia organised on 12 May a briefing for journalists with the participation of MEP Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE). MEP SYLIKIOTIS presented his report ‘‘Working conditions and precarious employment’’ and stressed that that social deprivation and setbacks in labour norms have forced the EP to adopt several reports on social dumping, the precarious employment of women and the EU social pillar.

He explained that his report aims to contribute to the political debate by establishing a minimum understanding of what constitutes precarious employment and by introducing the definition of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on decent employment. Representatives of all the major media in Cyprus attended the briefing.

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Press Briefing with MEP Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP) ______

16 June 2017

The EPLO in Nicosia organised on 16 June a briefing for journalists with the participation of MEP Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP) who analysed the important role of the EP in the adoption of the EU budget, the EP’s priorities for the 2017 EU budget, the latest developments on the EU taxation policy and the work of the EP Panama Papers Committee. Representatives of all the major media in Cyprus attended the briefing.

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Media Seminar on Security and Defence ______

28-29 June 2017 (Madrid)

The EPLO of Spain in collaboration with the EPLOs of Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Romania, France, Italy and Portugal organized an inter-regional conference on Security and Defence in Southern Europe.

The seminar took place in Madrid with the participation of MEPs from participating countries including MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR Cyprus), the spokesperson for the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), experts from the Ministry of Defence of Spain and journalists.

In the context of the seminar, participants visited the South Border Coordination Center in Madrid and the European Union Satellite Centre, Torrejón de Ardoz.

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Press Briefing with MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D) ______

14 July 2017

The EPLO in Nicosia organised on 14 of July a briefing for journalists with the participation of MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D). MEP PAPADAKIS - Shadow rapporteur of the opinion of the Committee on Regional Development - presented the WiFi4EU initiative and the report on the promotion of Internet connectivity in local communities. Representatives of all the major media in Cyprus attended the briefing.

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Press Seminar on the Future of Europe in Brussels ______

16-18 October 2017 (Brussels)

The Cyprus EPLO and EC Representation organized a Joint Press Seminar on The Future of Europe on 16-19 October in Brussels.

In the context of the programme, the journalists had meetings with Jaume DUCH, General Director of DGCOMM and EP Spokesman, Ioannis DARMIS, Acting Director of Media Services, MEPs Lefteris CHRISTOFOROU (EPP, CY), Costas MAVRIDES (S&D, CY), Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS (GUE, CY) and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE, CY), Reimer BÖGE (EPP, DE) Elissavet VOZEMBERG VRIONIDI (EPP, Cecilia WIKSTRÖM (ALDE, Sweden), Christos STYLIANIDES, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid & Crisis Management, Georges DASSIS - President of European Economic and Social Committee, Margaritis SCHINAS, EC Chief Spokesperson.

The journalists met with representatives of the Permanent Representation of Cyprus, Daniel FIOTT Security and Defence Editor at the EU Institute of Security Studies and Symeon ZAMBAS from the European Security and Defence College. The journalists had also the opportunity to visit the House of European History.

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Press Briefing with MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR) ______

27 October 2017

The EPLO in Nicosia organised on 27 of October a briefing for journalists with the participation of MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR). MEP THEOCHAROUS member of the DEVE Committee presented the role of the EP in the EU development policy. Representatives of all the major media in Cyprus attended the briefing.

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Media Seminar on Fake News ______

27 November 2017

The flagship media event of this year was the seminar organised by the EPLO in Cyprus, the Cyprus News Agency, the Union of Cyprus Journalists, the Cyprus Radio-Television Authority and the Cyprus Media Complaints Commission on FAKE NEWS: Phenomenon of Manipulation in the Modern World.

The seminar was attended by numerous journalists, students of journalism, academics and media stakeholders as well as representatives from major organisations of the public and private domain.

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The panel included MEP Stelios KOULOGLOU (GUE, Greece), Government Spokesman Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, Expert and CEO of com2go George ECONOMIDES, and George PAVLIDES, President of the Cyprus Media Complaints Commission with contributions from Alexandra ATTALIDES, EPLO Press Attaché, George FRANGOS, President - Union of Cyprus Journalists, Rona PETRI KASAPI, Chairwoman - Cyprus Radio Television Authority and Larkos LARKOU, Chairman of Board of Directors - Cyprus News Agency.

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Press briefing with MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D) ______

1 December 2017

The EPLO in Nicosia organised on December 1st a briefing for journalists with the participation of MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D).

The ECON Committee Member discussed with the journalists the latest developments on the banking union, the corporate taxation and the Structural Reform Support Programme (SRSP). Representatives of all the major media in Cyprus attended the briefing.

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Press briefing with MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE) ______

15 December 2017

The EPLO in Nicosia organised on 15 December a briefing for journalists with the participation of MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE), Member of EP PANA Committee who discussed with the journalists the report and recommendations of the PANA special inquiry committee.

MEP HADJIGEORGIOU discussed also with the journalists the latest developments in EU - Turkey relations. Representatives of all the major media in Cyprus attended the briefing.

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Media actions around visits to Cyprus by EP Officials or Delegations

Official Visit of the EP President to Cyprus ______

8 December 2017

The Official visit of the EP President to Cyprus generated an unprecedented amount of coverage by all kind of media sources in Cyprus. EP President’s meetings and statements were at the top of the agenda of all the media and were covered extensively and factually and in many cases quite positively. CyBC, the Public TV, broadcasted live all his meetings and his address at the House of the Representatives. We have traced more than 113 media reports (TV: 14 references, Radio: 8, Print: 21, Online media: 70).

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Official Visit of the EP The official visit of the EP CULT Committee on Culture and Committee received extensive and Education factual coverage (25 references) by all ______types of media including features on the prime news bulletins of public and private television stations. 20 - 22 February 2017

EP PETI Fact Finding Mission The EP PETI Fact Fining Mission to Cyprus was covered thoroughly by 39 to Cyprus 20-22 September media references in Cyprus reaching ______the prime time news bulletins.

20-22 September 2017

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In House Seminars for Media and journalists in Cyprus

The EPLO in Nicosia organised a series of in-House seminars for journalists and students of journalism which generally include:

. an introduction to the role of the EP in the EU decision making process, . the mission of the Media Services, . the facilities available to journalists by the EP, . EP sources of information, . an overview of the decisions and legislative priorities of 2017

Eurobarometer

. 16 media (TV: 3, Written Press: 3, Online Media: 10) in Cyprus cover extensively and factually the results of the April Eurobarometer based on the information provided by the EPLO Nicosia to the media.

. EPLO Cyprus Press Attaché Alexandra Attalides was invited to present during the main news bulletins of Sigma TV and Alpha TV, the findings of the latest Eurobarometer survey in extensive reportages

. The findings of the Eurobarometer were also presented to journalists during the press briefings we organized with the Cypriot MEPs.

Parlameter

. 21 media (TV: 3, Radio: 3, Written Press: 5, Online Media: 10) in Cyprus cover extensively and factually the results of the Parlameter based on the information provided by the EPLO Nicosia to the media.

. EPLO Cyprus Press Attaché Alexandra Attalides was invited by CyBC Radio Trito and Radio 107.6 to present the findings of the Parlameter

. The findings of the Parlameter were also presented to journalists during the press briefings we organized with the Cypriot MEPs.

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Involvement of Students of Journalism

session. During their visit the students

Students at the EP Plenary discussed with Cypriot MEPs and Commissioner STYLIANIDES the Session in Strasbourg current EU challenges and the future of the Union. Ioannis DARMIS, Acting

Director of the Media Services Unit had Eight journalism students from the a round table with them on the role of University of Nicosia and the Cyprus the EP and media services provided by Technology University were invited by the EP to journalists. The EP TV the EPLO Cyprus to attend and follow products and EP Audiovisual services the work of the July EP Plenary were presented to the students.

Students of journalism from the University Press Seminar on ‘‘Gender of Nicosia and the Cyprus Technology Mainstreaming in University were invited by the EPLO Cyprus to attend the press seminar titled Legislation and Policies’’ ‘‘Gender Mainstreaming in Legislation and Policies’’ that took place on 8th of

April in Troodos.

75 students of journalist from University Media Seminar on of Cyprus, University of Nicosia, the Fake News Cyprus Technology University and Frederick University attended the media seminar Fake news organized by the EPLO on 27 November 2017

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Quick Articles and interventions by statistics the Head of the Office on the role and decisions of the EP: 26

Media Coverage of events organized by Articles and EPLO Nicosia: interventions by Print: 106, Online: the Press Attaché 192, Radio: 33, on the role and TV: 51

decisions of the EP: 44

Number of Number of Cypriot Cypriot journalists at the journalists EP Plenary and attending the seminars events of the organised in EPLO Cyprus: Brussels and 269 Strasbourg: 82

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Number of National Angles: 18 Media Coverage of the central EP seminars: 18

Programmes and Interviews by Media in Cyprus using the EP AV facilities: 20

Media Editorials and Coverage of Inserts of the EP the EP Plenary: President/Human 1.448 Rights/Values Campaigns: 8

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Social Media

The EPLO Cyprus continues to have a dynamic and active presence on social media, ensuring there are daily updates across our accounts and that our events and promotion of the EP’s role and activities are accurately reflected on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube accounts. Communicating on platforms where citizens share and read information is a key element of our public outreach, and an important way to localise content and ensure it effectively reaches our stakeholders and the general public, and in particular the youth.

Another central aspect of our social media presence is to share legislative work of the EP and engage citizens with key decisions made at the EP, and with the work of Cypriot MEPs on the major campaigns and priorities.

Alongside key moments in the EP’s calendar (Women’s Day, LUX Prize, Sakharov Prize, Citizen’s Prize, Europe Day, Mobility Week, Press seminars and EP Ambassador Schools), we have also increased our production of videos in 2017, in order to increase engagement levels online.

Growth of the EPLO Cyprus’ social media pages in 2017:

Twitter: our account has 4,407 followers as of 31 December 2017, a growth of 17% in 2017.

Facebook: We have 7,789 fans on Facebook as of 31 December 2017 - an increase of nearly 20% in 2017.

Instagram: Our Instagram profile became much more active in 2017 and now has over 400 followers.

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Noteworthy social media initiatives in 2017

During 2017 our social media pages had steady growth, and expansion in fans and followers. We continued implementing our strategy of using more native video on our social media pages and creating our own videos rather than only relying on material from the EP’s central audiovisual service. We also produced short videos showing the work of MEPs in Cyprus.

Notable examples include a video message from MEP Takis HADJIGEORGIOU regarding Rare Diseases day in February 2017, a short film about MEPs Neoklis SYLIKIOTIS and Demetris PAPADAKIS visiting Famagusta in the northern part of Cyprus, where they spoke to Turkish Cypriot teachers and visited archaeological sites renovated with EU funding, and a video of MEP Eleni THEOCHAROUS attending a beach cleanup with young people in the popular tourist resort town of Ayia Napa as part of our event on ‘‘Greening Cyprus Beaches’’.

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Official visit of EP President Antonio TAJANI in Cyprus

We also introduced Facebook Live to our Facebook page, with the visit of EP President Antonio Tajani to Cyprus. The President held a debate with young people on the Future of the EU at EU House in Nicosia, and we promoted the event and streamed it live on Facebook. The Facebook live was watched by almost 1.900 people.

Conference ‘‘Fake News: Phenomenon of Manipulation in the Modern World’’

Another use of video to make our events as accessible as possible was the livestreaming of our conference entitled “Fake News: Phenomenon of Manipulation in the Modern World” in November 2017. Co-organised with the Cyprus News Agency, the Union of Cyprus Journalists, the Cyprus Radio- Television Authority and the Media Complaints Commission, this high- profile event was very well-attended and attracted distinguished speakers. We wanted to ensure as many people as possible could follow proceedings which is why we invested in live coverage of the event.

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EP Ambassador School shared photographs and videos of Programme visits to the House of Representatives in Cyprus, regional ceremonies We also ensured school and youth conducted by the schools and the activities were shared online, and in closing ceremony which took place at particular the EPAS Programme. We EU House.

Campaign #8WomenCY

The highlight of our social media The main aim of the campaign was to initiatives for 2017 was the highly present to the general public women successful International Women’s Day who could become an inspiration and video campaign on Women in a role model for other women because Business (8-12 March 2017.) The of their talent, their determination, European Parliament dedicated this resilience and tenacity to make a year's International Women's Day on difference. The videos were uploaded women’s economic empowerment and on all our social media platforms. The the EPLO in Cyprus decided to run a films also included subtitles in English social media campaign to promote this in order to be as inclusive as possible year's theme. We commissioned the for a diverse audience. production of 8 short films presenting 8 Cypriot women distinguished in various areas i.e. media, culture, financial etc.

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The #8WomenCY campaign as it was known reached 145,931 people on Facebook, and over 5,500 on Twitter. In the four days of the #8WomenCY campaign our Video views went up a huge 811%, Facebook post engagements went up 161%, our Organic Reach went up 294%, and our Page Likes increased by 230 (154%).

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Special focus on youth

European Parliament Ambassador School Programme

The European Parliament Ambassador School (EPAS) Programme, which was implemented for the first time during the school year 2016 - 2017 in all 28 EU member states aims to promote the idea of the European Union and European parliamentary democracy to young people, providing them with important knowledge about the EU and especially about the EP. The students (Junior Ambassadors) and teachers (Senior Ambassadors) who completed the programme have become aware of the EP’s decisive role within the European decision-making process.

The EPAS Programme was organised for the first time in Cyprus during the school year 2016-2017 by the EPLO in Cyprus in close cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Culture.

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School year 20016-2017

On 7 February 2017, the second seminar for the teachers (Senior Ambassadors) of the 14 participating schools took place at the European Union House in Nicosia. Andreas KETTIS, Head of the office, presented the role of the EP and of the EP Information Office in Cyprus, while the school-inspector Zoe ODYSSEOS - POLYDOROU addressed the attendees on behalf of the Minister of Education and Culture. MEP Costas MAVRIDES, (S&D), talked about the political actions and dynamics within the EP and engaged in a fruitful dialogue with the teachers, on how important it is for pupils to be aware of EU related issues.

Furthermore, the EPLO in Cyprus organised study visit at the House of Representatives in Nicosia with the participation of students who had the opportunity to be informed about the way the House of Representatives and the EP function. During the study visit that took place on 21 March 2017, the Members of the Parliament Giorgos GEORGIOU (AKEL) and Charalambos THEOPEMPTOY (Movement of Ecologists - Citizens' Co-operation) were among the attendants and engaged in a dialogue with the students. Former MEPs Andreas PITSILLIDES (EPP) and Kyriakos TRIANTAFYLLIDES (GUE/NGL) briefed the students on 24 and 29 of March respectively. The students had the opportunity to discuss with the MPs and former MEPs and express their personal concerns about the challenges the EU is facing today.

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Within the framework of the EPAS programme, the EPLO in Cyprus, in cooperation with Radio Astra, organised a live link on 27 March 2017 with the participation of ten students (Junior Ambassadors) from Livadia Regional Lyceum (Larnaca), Olympion Gymnasium (Nicosia) and Apostoles Peter and Paul Lyceum (Limassol). The discussion was held at the premises of Radio Astra in Aglantzia. MEPs Eleni THEOCHAROUS (ECR) and Takis HADJIGEORGIOU (GUE/NGL) and MPs Annita DEMETRIOU (DISY-EPP) and Stefanos STEFANOU (AKEL-GUE) participated at the live link. The debate focused on the future of Europe and more specifically on how young people in Cyprus want to shape this future.

MEP Demetris PAPADAKIS (S&D) and Junior Ambassadors from EPAS schools participated at a second live link of Radio Astra related to the future of Europe, which was organised this time at the EU House in Nicosia on 9 June 2017.

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Final Ceremony of the “European Parliament Ambassador School Programme” and awarding of the prizes to the distinguished students of the 1st Pancyprian Essay Competition on EU matters

The EPIO in Cyprus organised at the teachers from the rest of the 27 EU House in Nicosia on 19 June 2017 Member States. the closing ceremony of the EPAS Programme. The schools that participated and received the title ‘‘European The awarded schools retain the title Parliament Ambassador School’’ are "EPAS" for one school year and an the following: Kykkos Lyceum Paphos, honorary plaquette was placed on the Kykkos B’ Lyceum (Nicosia), Lefkara facade of their school building. Regional Gymnasium and Lyceum, Honorary diplomas were awarded to Technical School of Larnaca, Kolossi students and teachers who actively Regional Lyceum, Agios Antonios participated in all the relevant activities Lyceum, Apostoles Peter and Paul organised by the school unit. Students Lyceum, The International School of and teachers will participate at the Paphos, Livadia Regional Lyceum, Euroscola programme in Strasbourg Forum School Education, Olympion, and will experience thus, how it feels to Technical School A’ Nicosia, become a Member of the EP for a full Giannakis Taliotis Lyceum- day. Besides, three teachers had Geroskipou, Emporiki Scholi Mitsi- already the opportunity to take part in Lemythou. specialized seminars for educators at the EP in Brussels along with other

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At the same time, during the SYLLOURIS, the Minister of Education ceremony, awards were given to the and Culture Costas KADIS, the Head distinguished students of the 1st of the EPIO in Cyprus Andreas Pancyprian Essay Competition on EU KETTIS, the Chairman of the Youth matters. The awards were granted by Board of Cyprus Panayiotis the President of the House of SENTONAS, and former MEP Representatives H.E. Mr Demetris Kyriakos TRIANTAFYLLIDIS.

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School year 2017-2018

In June 2017, the first year of the EPAS program was completed, with the second year starting in the last trimester of 2017. The EPIO in Cyprus organised a training course for teachers (Senior Ambassadors) participating in the programme on 13 October 2017 at the EU House in Nicosia. MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D) and the Head of the European and International Affairs Office of the Ministry of Education and Culture, Niki PAPADOPOULOU-PAPA, addressed the participating Senior Ambassadors. The role of the EP and its Office in Cyprus was presented by the Head of the Office Andreas KETTIS. It is worth noting that twenty schools, including Technical Schools and Private schools, are participating in the programme this year (school year 2017-2018).

A live link was organised by Radio Astra on Friday 24/11/2017 at the EU House in Nicosia with the participation of MEP Costas MAVRIDES (S&D) and former MEP and current MP Adamos ADAMOU (AKEL-GUE) and students (Junior Ambassadors) from Latsia Lyceum, who are participating at the EPAS programme. The discussion focused, among others, on human rights, unemployment, gender equality, environment, European identity, protection of animal rights and migration. Opening the discussion, the Head of the EPIO in Cyprus underlined that the EPAS programme aims to teach young people the values and principles upon which the EU is founded as well as making them fully aware of the principles and benefits of parliamentary democracy. MEP MAVRIDES, on his part, remarked that citizens have serious responsibilities in a parliamentary democracy calling on the teachers to make their students active European citizens.

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Information briefings

The information briefings are organised for primary school pupils, secondary school and university students as well as secondary school teachers. The briefings are related to the way the European Parliament and the European Union is working and how the policies of the EU have a direct effect on the daily life of the citizens. New pedagogical ways have been used in order to further attract the interest of the students and to pass on the messages by using interactive methods. At the end of each presentation, there is a quiz with questions in order to summarize the context of the briefing and to help the students assimilate the information provided.

The briefings mainly target youngsters between the ages of 11 to 30 years old and focus on five main education levels:

1. Students between the age of 13-18 years old that will be first-time voters at the forthcoming European elections in 2019.

2. Students participating at the Euroscola programme have to follow a presentation at the EU House in order to be informed about the policies, values of the European Parliament before travelling to Strasbourg, where the Euroscola programme takes place.

3. Cypriot University students and European or International youngsters that live temporarily in Cyprus and interact with Cypriots e.g. via the Erasmus+ programme.

4. Pupils between 11 and 12 years old of the fifth and sixth grade of the elementary school. It is noteworthy to mention that these pupils welcome us with a lot of enthusiasm and their level of knowledge of EU matters is astonishing. The basics about the EU are covered in the geography class but their teachers thoroughly prepare them when there is an upcoming visit by an EPLO official at their school.

5. Apart from students, we put a lot of effort and emphasis on high school teachers (of different age groups) as they are opinion multipliers and are in direct contact with the students.

The EPLO speakers make a holistic presentation of the EU and the importance of the role the EP has as a co-legislator within the institutional setup of the Union. In addition, several concrete examples from everyday life are given (e.g. roaming, free movement of people within EU countries, e-Call, access for people with disabilities, recycling, renewable energy etc.) in order to raise awareness and help the students

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understand that the EU and the decisions of the EP have a direct impact on them, their families, regions, cities and country and that the Cypriot MEPs play a role in this.

Furthermore, reference is made to the EP values, human rights, migration policy, equal rights for men and women and emphasis is put on the concept behind the slogan of the EU ‘‘United in diversity’’

Last but not least, special emphasis is given on the fact that the EU was born out of European Cooperation after the Second World War. Awareness is raised among the youth of Cyprus that the EU, is above all, a peace project and that the institutions of the EU have managed to secure more than 60 years of uninterrupted peace for EU Member States.

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Source: google maps

In 2017 the EPIO in Cyprus gave 95 map is an indicative presentations of presentations at the EU House in the covered areas. The numbers show Nicosia and locally. By means of the the numbers of presentations in each briefings, the Euroscola programme municipality and the small blue and the other youth activities we hexagons show the areas of the managed to reach out more than 5.000 regional schools that have been students all over Cyprus (the involved. Government controlled areas). The

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‘‘Train the Trainers’’

Within the framework of our project ‘‘Train the Trainers’’ on 23/01/2017, 24/01/2017 and 12/12/2017, briefings were given by the EPIO in Cyprus and the Representation of the European Commission in schools in Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos. More specifically, presentations were given to the following schools:

Agia Varvara Gymnasium of Kato Polemidia, Agios Spyridonas Lyceum of Limassol, Livadia Lyceum of Larnaca, Empa Lyceum of Paphos, C’ Technical School of Limassol. Presentations were addressed to teachers and covered the role and actions of the EU and the EP.

Furthermore, detailed briefing was provided concerning European Youth Programmes.

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Euroscola Programme

In 2017, a total of 431 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students and 51 teachers participated in Euroscola sessions at the hemicycle of the EP in Strasbourg which simulate the work of the EP.

Euroscola offers an immersive experience in the Chamber of the EP in Strasbourg, allowing high-school students to learn about European integration by experiencing it first-hand. Students from the 28 EU Member States are selected to get in the role of the Members of the EP for one day. They take the floor in the plenary and committee sessions to debate and vote on resolutions on current EU affairs. At the same time they practise their language skills and exchange experiences with fellow students from other EU member states.

The students from Cyprus are mainly selected by Competitions that are organised in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Culture and ensure that representatives from almost all the schools of the Government controlled areas of

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the Republic of Cyprus participate every year. In addition, the EPIO is in close cooperation with two Turkish Cypriot Teachers’ Unions in order to ensure the effective participation of Turkish Cypriot students and teachers in Euroscola sessions.

The EPIO also organises special information sessions at the EU House for bicommnal Euroscola groups. These presentations have a dual role. On the one hand, to prepare the students for the Euroscola experience, and enrich their knowledge about the EP and on the other hand, to bring Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot teachers and students together, organise ice breaking games and give them the opportunity to interact with each other. In this way, we create the necessary osmosis and thus, make the participants perform in Strasbourg as one integral group.

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National School Competition 2016-2017

The EPIO in cooperation with the Representation of the EC in Cyprus and the Ministry of Education and Culture launched the third "National School Competition" in 2017. This year, 37 schools participated at this competition. The final round of the competition took place on 20 March 2017 taking the form of an EU Quiz.

The Quiz tested the knowledge of the students around the institutions and policies of the EU as well as its history. The Prize of the competition for the first four school groups (16 students and 4 teachers) was an educational trip to Strasbourg and participation at the Euroscola programme. The winning schools were the following: Linopetra Lyceum (Limassol), Acropolis Lyceum (Nicosia), Agios Georgios Lyceum (Larnaca) and Geroskypou Lyceum (Paphos).

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“Cyprus-Europe: Build cultural bridges with the company of Telis” Drawing book

Our Office in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Cyprus Telecommunications Authority - CYTA created an innovative drawing book, titled “Cyprus-Europe: Build cultural bridges with the company of Telis”. The activity book is addressed to primary school pupils and aims during art classes to familiarize and direct 62.000 Cypriot pupils in the world of culture and history of the European family. Quizzes, art competitions, pictures, maps and interesting short texts adjusted to the level of the pupils are included in the booklet.

The overarching aim of the publication is to create a common cultural identity, having in the background the several events organised by the Cypriot town of Pafos - European Capital of Culture for 2017. The booklet was distributed to all primary schools of the Republic of Cyprus.

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Quick

62.000 pupils statistics received the drawing booklet “Cyprus-Europe:

Building cultural 431 students and bridges with the 51 teachers company of Telis” participated at

the Euroscola programme in

Strasbourg in 2017 European Parliament

Ambassador School Programme:

47 schools and more than 1.635

students participated directly or indirectly

We have organised

95 school/university 3.870 students and 510 teachers briefings in 2017: 58 local visits and were briefed

37 at the EU House about the EP

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Schools and youth groups that visited EU House in Nicosia in 2017

12 January 2017 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot teachers participating at the Euroscola programme

17 January 2017 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students participating at the Euroscola programme

19 January 2017 Apostoles Peter and Paul Lyceum, Limassol

20 January 2017 Agioi Trimithias Primary School

25 January 2017 Paliometocho Regional Lyceum

26 January 2017 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students participating at the Euroscola programme

8 February 2017 Agias Paraskevis Gymnasium Geroskipou

9 February 2017  Stavrou Gymnasium, Nicosia  Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students participating at the Euroscola programme

14 February 2017 Acropoleos Lyceum, Nicosia

23 February 2017 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students participating at the Euroscola programme

28 February 2017 Agiou Vasileiou Gymnasium, Nicosia

6 March 2017 Aglantzia Gymnasium, Nicosia

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7 March 2017  Students of Journalism – University of Nicosia  Apostolos Marcos Lyceum, Nicosia

16 March 2017 Akaki Regional Gymnasium

24 March 2017 Kato Pyrgos Gymnasium - Lyceum

29 March 2017  Constantinoupoleos Gymnasium, Nicosia  Euroscola students

3 April 2017 Terra Santa Collage - Secondary School, Nicosia

25 April 2017 Terra Santa Collage – Primary School, Nicosia

26 April 2017 Lacatamia Primary School, Nicosia

9 May 2017 Apostoles Peter and Paul Lyceum, Limassol

16 May 2017 Palouriotissa Primary School, Nicosia

17 May 2017  Agios Antonios Primary School, Nicosia  Eleneio Primary School, Limassol  Ypsonas B’ Primary School, Limassol

20 September 2017 The Cyprus Friendship Programme (CFP)

28 September 2017 Youth Dynamics Informal Group

9 November 2017 Presentation to Erasmus+ group

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20 November 2017 Agios Theodoros Gymnasium A’, Paphos

22 November 2017 Troulloi Primary School, Larnaca

28 November 2017 Agios Dometios Primary School, Nicosia

29 November 2017 Kykkos A’ Lyceum, Nicosia

5 December 2017 Terra Santa College, Nicosia

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Local briefings to schools, universities and organised groups

11 January 2017 Kokkinochoria Gymnasium ‘Panos Ioannou’

16 January 2017 ‘Giannakis Talliotis’ Lyceum Geroskipou, Paphos

1 February 2017 Paralimni Gymnasium, Famagusta

8 February 2017 Primary School Katharis ‘Dimitri Liperti’, Larnaca

13 February 2017  Episkopi Gymnasium ‘Agios Ermogenis’, Limassol  Agia Fyla Primary School, Limassol

17 February 2017 ‘Vasas Sanidas’ Asgata Regional Primary School

22 February 2017 Agios Ioannis Gymnasium Kato Polemidia, Limassol

1 March 2017  Agios Ioannis Primary School, Larnaca  Vergina Gymnasium, Larnaca

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8 March 2017  Eirini and Eleftheria Gymnasium, Famagusta  Ormidia Primary School B’  Paralimni Lyceum, Famagusta

15 March 2017 Ypsonas B’ Primary School, Limassol

23 March 2017  Nikolaideio Gymnasium, Paphos  Emba Lyceum, Paphos  Agia Paraskevi Gymnasium Geroskipou, Paphos

24 March 2017  Paphos Primary School E’ - Agios Dimitrios  Paphos Primary School D’ - Kato Pervolion

5 April 2017 Agia Fyla Primary School, Limassol

27 April 2017 Youth for Exchange and Understanding (YEU) Cyprus

15 May 2017 Agios Georgios Primary School, Limassol

19 May 2017 Polis Chrysochous Primary School, Paphos

14 June 2017 Agios Kendeas Primary School, Paphos

25 September 2017 Latsia Lyceum, Nicosia

3 October 2017 Faneromeni Gymnasium, Nicosia

31 October 2017 Apostoles Peter and Paul Lyceum, Limassol

1 November 2017 Presentation to students of the University of Cyprus, Nicosia

7 November 2017 Presentation to postgraduate students of the University of Nicosia

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8 November 2017 Aradippou Lyceum ‘Tassos Mitsopoulos’, Larnaca

14 November 2017  Agios Nicolaos Lyceum, Limassol  Linopetra Lyceum, Limassol

16 November 2017 ‘Giannakis Taliotis’ Lyceum Geroskipou, Paphos

17 November 2017  Polis Chrysochous Primary School, Paphos  Polis Chrysochous Lyceum and Technical School, Paphos

24 November 2017 Apostoles Peter and Paul Lyceum, Limassol

6 December 2017  Kokkinochoria Lyceum ‘Foti Pitta’, Famagusta  Livadia Regional Lyceum, Larnaca

11 December 2017  Kolossi Primary School A’, Limassol  Agios Andonios Lyceum, Limassol

15 December 2017 Agios Georgios Primary School Kato Polemidia, Limassol

20 December 2017 Linopetra Lyceum, Limassol ______

‘‘Train the Trainers” presentations to teachers

23 January 2017  Agia Varvara Lyceum Kato Polemidia, Limassol  Agios Spyridonas Lyceum, Limassol  Livadia Lyceum, Larnaca

24 January 2017 Empa Lyceum, Paphos

12 December 2017  Technical School III, Limassol  Agios Spyridonas Lyceum, Limassol

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The role of the EPLO

The EP has Liaison Offices in all Member States of the EU. Their main function is to inform and communicate locally on behalf of the EP in order to ensure people understand the impact of the institution on their lives, thus helping bridge the gap with citizens.

Furthermore, the role of EPLO is to raise awareness of the EP and its Members by providing information, answering questions and building links with citizens, stakeholders and the media.

Besides, the Liaison Offices work closely with students and teachers, inviting them to take part in debates and seminars on European issues and providing teaching material on the European Union. They also help organise Euroscola, which gives students the opportunity to travel to the official seat of the EP in Strasbourg and experience the work of a Member of the EP.

Briefly, EPLOs undertake among other tasks, the following:

 reply to questions about the EP;

 provide information on EU policies and EP activities;

 hold debates with Members and stakeholders on issues featuring in the legislative agenda of the EP;

 organise events on EU principles and values, such as gender equality in the context of the International Women’s Day; Europe Day celebrations; debates on the SakharovPrize - Human Rights; LUX Film Days (multicultural Europe) etc.

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The staff of the Office

Andreas KETTIS Gina TSIORVA Head of the Office Administrative and Financial Sector

Alexandra ATTALIDES Nektarios NICOLAIDES Press Attaché Public Relations and Educational Sector Vaggelis VASILEIOU Public Relations Officer Matilta LOUKAIDOU Communication and Media Sector

Our trainees

Athina KONTOU Andreas ARISTEIDOU Lefteris POUTZOURIS Evie IOSIF

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Contact:

European Parliament Liaison Office in Cyprus House of the European Union 30 Byron Avenue, 1096 Nicosia, Cyprus

Tel: +357 22870500 Fax: +357 22767733 [email protected] www.europarl.cy

Follow us: Twitter: @EP_Cyprus Facebook: ep.cyprus Instagram: epcyprus

Published by: European Parliament Liaison Office in Cyprus Layout and design: Andreas Aristeidou, Evie Iosif Cover photo, photos pages 45-49, 71: Iakovos Hatzistavrou Photos: Sarah Malian

©2018

Liaison Office in Cyprus