The visible footprint of the European Union in Cyprus, through projects co-financed by the Cohesion Policy Funds, was highlighted by the visit of the European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, Piotr Serafin.

In the framework of the "THALIA 2021-2027" program, Mr. Serafin made on-site visits to projects in old Nicosia and the University of Cyprus, underlining the positive impact of European funds on the daily lives of citizens and especially young people.

On Thursday 4 September, the Commissioner toured the historic centre of the capital and visited:

  • the Management Center of the "Smart City" project,
  • the renovated facilities of the Old Municipal Market, which houses the activities of the CYENS Research and Innovation Center,
  • and the project Regeneration of the Creative Business District Area.

On Friday, September 5, he visited the University of Cyprus, where he visited the "Stelios Ioannou" Library, the Photovoltaic Park and the research laboratories of the Faculty of Engineering, all with European co-funding. There, he exchanged views with students on the EU's contribution to everyday life and opportunities for young people.

The "THALIA 2021-2027" program has a total budget of €1.8 billion, with €969 million. coming from the EU and €842 million from the state budget. This is the largest funding ever received by Cyprus, with around €700 million already deployed and over 100 projects in progress or completed.