Cyprus’ improved corruption index position a recognition of our work, President says

The improvement of Cyprus' position in Transparency International's international corruption perception index is a recognition of the work we are doing on this issue, President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides has said.

He was speaking at the opening of the 12 February Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace, adding that the Government will continue to show no tolerance to such phenomena.

In his opening remarks at the Cabinet meeting, the President of the Republic first expressed satisfaction with the results of Transparency International.

"There has been a continuous improvement in our country's position in the corruption perception index with an increase of 3 points and 3 positions in one year, following last year's results. This is a particularly positive development, it is a recognition of the work we are doing on this issue. Of course we are not complacent but we continue our efforts," he noted.

He added that the international campaign for rebranding the country was also recently launched, noting that it is important to continue in this direction.

"Our approach as a government from day one has been no tolerance for such phenomena. And it is important that it is slowly being recognized by the society, with all the benefits that emerge for our country," he said in this regard.

He also said that today a decision will be taken to implement the evolution of the National Guard, regarding the provision of the possibility for women to voluntarily join the National Guard after completing secondary education.

"It is a decision with many dimensions. On the one hand, it strengthens the National Guard and at the same time women gain a right, the same right to contribute to military service, while also promoting the notion that the responsibility for the security of our country is a collective one. There are some specific incentives that will be given to women who choose to volunteer for military service and it is a landmark decision for the National Guard," she said.

In addition, President Christodoulides said that among the decisions to be taken is an amendment regarding the procedure for exercising disciplinary control over doctors, enhancing transparency and institutionalizing the continuous professional training of doctors.

In conclusion, he said that today a decision will also be taken on the institution of the Technical High School, by creating one in Nicosia and one in Limassol, "following the model of the successful institution of the Sports and Music High School, within the framework of linking education with the labour market".

(Source: CNA)