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I am particularly pleased to
join you for the 30th Annual General Meeting of the Cyprus International
Business Association, taking stock of the important work done and the
continuous efforts dedicated to fostering the growth of business on an
international scale within Cyprus.
First and foremost, I would
like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to CIBA on reaching this
significant milestone. The journey that CIBA has embarked on since its
inception in 1993 is driven by its members' shared vision and commitment and
has transformed it into a force. For the past 30 years, CIBA has been at the
forefront of promoting Cyprus as a premier destination for global business,
serving as a beacon of excellence and fostering a vibrant business community.
Your tireless efforts are an integral part of shaping the economic landscape
of our country, attracting investment, creating jobs, and driving economic
growth.
In an era defined by rapid
technological advancement, geopolitical complexities, and environmental
concerns, it is vital for us to evolve by prioritizing research and
development investments, promoting collaboration between academia and
industry, and cultivating a culture of twin transition. Embracing
digitalization and emerging technologies is crucial, as they catalyse
economic growth and job creation.
I would like to stress that our
governance program prioritises these objectives driven by a vision for a modern
and innovative economic development model. We are strengthening the
competitiveness of the Cypriot economy through a targeted program that is
primarily guided by Vision 2035 and the Recovery and Resilience Plan of the
EU. These encompass comprehensive structural reforms and targeted investments
across all sectors of the economy and society, and it can establish Cyprus as
a player in the future digital economy. Significant initiatives within this
program include reforming the justice sector, generous subsidies to support
businesses in their digital and green investments, substantial funding
directed towards advancing e-governance, increased support for research and
innovation through enhanced subsidies, tax restructuring, and skill
enhancement programs for the workforce of Cyprus.
CIBA is pivotal in steering
Cyprus through these important transitions, and it can promote a favourable
economic environment, facilitating investment opportunities. It can
contribute significantly in encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable
practices and embrace the principles of social responsibility. At the same
time, CIBA has a role to play in supporting entrepreneurship, empowering
innovation, and actively engaging with its members to identify and seize
emerging opportunities in the global economy.
The 30th anniversary of CIBA is
both a celebration and a call to action, reminding us of our progress and the
challenges ahead. It is an opportunity to renew our commitment to
international business, innovation, and sustainable development, shaping
a future where Cyprus thrives as a business hub. By collaborating, we have
the potential to attract investments, generate employment opportunities, and
enhance the welfare of our society.
In my closing remarks, I would
like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the members of CIBA, past and
present, for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment. Your
collective dedication has been a catalyst in establishing Cyprus as a trusted
partner in the international business community. Let us seize this moment to
strengthen our collaboration, embrace new opportunities, and build a
prosperous future for Cyprus and its global business sector.
(ΡΜ/ΙΣ)
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