Economist Conferences – Greece
21st Annual Cyprus Summit
November 3rd and 4th 2025 | Hilton Nicosia
Bridging continents for security, business and energy
The international geopolitical landscape is dominated by profound instability, as the two wars in Ukraine and Gaza drag on, while other hotbeds of tension have been activated, such as the Indian subcontinent. The post-Cold War order is fragmenting. The new US administration agenda on trade raises concerns that powerful countries or blocs of countries might be entrenched behind a protectionist approach. In parallel, the much-needed global co-operation on climate goals is in decline. However, the momentum for technological transition, a driver of major social transformations, remains strong and encourages international partnerships.
Within this context, the importance of the eastern Mediterranean region is constantly increasing in areas such as diplomacy, security and energy. Cyprus, with its open economy and society can play a decisive role. As Europe is called to create a new defence and security architecture, Cyprus’s role emerges vital and critical due to its strategic position. A cohesive EU strategy as well as a closer co-operation between the EU, the US and the countries of the region can contribute to peace, stability and prosperity.
Within this context, Economist Impact has great pleasure in announcing the organisation of the 21st Annual Cyprus Summit entitled “Bridging continents for security, business and energy”, which is scheduled to take place on November 3rd and 4th 2025 in Nicosia.
In collaboration with
Speakers
George Aftias
Member of the European Parliament, EPP (via connection)
Andreas Andreou
Deputy secretary-general
Oren Anolik
Αmbassador of Israel in Cyprus
Mirna Arif
General manager, Middle East and Africa growth markets
Dimitris Avramopoulos
Former European commissioner for migration, home affairs and citizenship and former minister of foreign affairs
Richard Baldwin
Professor of international economics
Raheli Bindman
Chief communications and regulation officer
Tasos Chatzivasileiou
MP, Hellenic Parliament; former deputy minister of foreign affairs
Agenda
Registration and welcome coffee
The Economist’s outlook on the eastern Mediterranean region
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Opening session: The path from crisis to peace in the Middle East
The Abraham Accords, between Israel and several Arab States, should have paved the way for peace and stability in the region. Following the two year war in Gaza, this session will examine the new landscape in the Middle East after the recent signing of President Trump’s peace agreement. How will the 20 point peace plan agreement be implemented to achieve a peaceful coexistence?
Tzipi Livni, former minister of foreign affairs, Government of Israel (via connection)
Sameh Shoukry, former minister of foreign affairs, Government of Egypt
Oren Anolik, ambassador of Israel in Cyprus
Dimitris Avramopoulos, former European commissioner for migration, home affairs and citizenship; former minister of foreign affairs, Government of Greece
Arguments for creating a “small states club”
What is the secret of success for small states in the 21st century? Can small states play a bigger leadership role in an increasingly fragmented world? How can small states counter the dominance of major powers and be effective mediators in global conflicts? This session will discuss how an “S20” consortium of small states could play a big role in preventing war, promoting peace and tackling other global challenges.
The Economist in dialogue with:
Armen Sarkissian, former president and prime minister, Armenia
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
The EU's next long-term budget: adapting to new realities
Michael Hadjipantela, member of the European Parliament (recorded message)
George Aftias, member of the European Parliament, EPP (via connection)
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
End of sessions - Day 1
Cocktail reception
Dinner: How are America and Europe redefining their places in the world?
In view of the developments in American foreign and trade policy this session discusses how transatlantic relations are evolving and what impact it will have on the eastern Mediterranean region. What does the new American administration’s agenda signify for global trade, investment and energy security. The session will also address the growing influence of China and Russia on the world economy and artificial intelligence (AI) industry, and the implications for Europe’s strategic autonomy, sovereignty and economic resilience.
Guest of honour and keynote speaker:
Mike Pompeo, 70th US secretary of state, executive chairman, Impact Investments
Chaired by:
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
Registration and refreshments
Opening and keynote address
A strategic nexus in a strategic region
Cyprus’s pivotal position in the eastern Mediterranean's geopolitical landscape makes the country critical to the region’s energy, security and diplomacy. But the political division of the island continues to pose challenges. How can Cyprus fulfil its full potential in regional and international affairs?
Nikos Christodoulides, president, Republic of Cyprus
Chaired by:
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
Energy geopolitics in the eastern Mediterranean
European requirements for energy security and the role of the eastern Mediterranean as a strategic energy hub have attracted investors to the region. What should they expect to find?
Tasos Chatzivasileiou, MP, Hellenic Parliament; former deputy minister of foreign affairs, Government of Greece
Alexandros Costopoulos, chair, U.S. Greece Trade & Investment Council
Constantinos Filis, director, Institute of International Affairs, associate professor, American College of Greece
Chaired by:
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
Rethinking economic growth and banking in a fragmented world
The Economist in dialogue with:
Christodoulos Patsalides, governor, Central Bank of Cyprus
Chaired by:
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
AI in the fintech era
Αdvanced technologies & AI in the financial services sector are changing the way funds are transacted and managed. This session will consider the opportunities and challenges of AI in the era of fintech, smart finance and cyber security.
Paul Meeks, CFA, CAIA, head of technology research, Freedom Capital Markets
Gregory Dellas, group chief compliance and risk officer, ECOMMBX; chair, ACAMS Cyprus Chapter
Raheli Bindman, chief communications and regulation officer, One Zero Digital Bank
Chaired by:
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
Networking break with refreshments
Building a future-ready workforce
AI is revolutionising the skills workforces need for economic growth. This session will examine ways to enhance business capabilities in a changing world.
Athena Michaelidou, minister of education, sport and youth, Government of Cyprus
Nikolaos Mavridis, AI consultant & academic
Philippos Soseilos, chief executive and chairman, PwC Cyprus
Valentina Rzheutskaya, executive director, Capital.com
Achim Schmillen, lead economist for social protection and labor, World Bank
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
The prospects for capital markets in the eastern Mediterranean
This session will discuss the potential of capital markets within the current international and regional landscape as well as the opportunities presented by partnerships in the region.
George Theocharides, chairman, Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC)
Yosef Zinger, chairman, Israel Securities Authority
Michael Fekkas, A' vice-chair, Hellenic Capital Market Commission
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Investment opportunities in a volatile environment. New strategies – new synergies
Evgenios Evgeniou, chairman, Invest Cyprus
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Investing in turbulent times
The wisdom that successful investments require stability has been overturned by the turbulent geopolitical and economic developments of recent years. This session will consider the adaptability and resilience of the European economy within this new reality.
Andreas Andreou, deputy secretary-general, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Olga Eftychidou, head of legal, Sioufas & Associates Law Firm
Alakh Verma, strategic advisor AI and digital transformation, PwC; chief executive, BCentriqe.AI
Annely Koudstaal, programme manager Southern Europe, World Bank
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Tariff troubles: America vs. the EU
This session will assess the implications of trade frictions between America and Europe and explore the wider impact of tariffs on the global economy.
Richard Baldwin, professor of international economics, International Institute for Management Development, Switzerland
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Unlocking women’s potential in energy
As energy markets are shifting toward renewables and smarter energy systems, the industry is also becoming more diverse. This session will explore the role of women in shaping the energy landscape, highlighting how inclusive leadership and targeted upskilling programmes are transforming the industry.
Josie Christodoulou, commissioner for gender equality, Republic of Cyprus
Mirna Arif, general manager, Middle East and Africa growth markets, Microsoft
Alexandra Sdoukou, spokesperson, New Democracy (via connection)
Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Co-moderator
Enas Shabana, communications & media relations specialist, East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF)
Network resilience and security of supply
This session will explore the distinction between resilience and immunity in networks, examining both the challenges and potential solutions. The discussion will focus on the roles of technology, regulation and finance.
Amos Lasker, managing partner, Amrav Investment, chief executive, Israeli Energy Innovation Community
Chaired by:
John Peet, associate editor, special reports, The Economist
Networking Luncheon
End of conference
Sponsors
Delegrate registration
Option A: Conference sessions
€1.800 tax/VAT excl.
- Full 3-day conference
- 3 networking luncheons
- Coffee breaks
Option B: Conference sessions and dinners
€2.200 tax/VAT excl.
- Full 3-day conference 3
- networking luncheons coffee breaks and cocktail receptions
- 2 Gala Dinners
Corporate table
€7.500 tax/VAT excl./ table (8 seats)
- This option includes participation of 8 persons at: full 3-day conference 3 networking luncheons coffee breaks
Venue
Escape in a haven of relaxation and grandeur by the azure of the sea, delve in the pleasures of luxury and experience the epitome of indulgence in the dreamiest island-like resort of the Athenian Riviera. Nuzzled in a 72-acre private peninsula in the Athenian Riviera with stunning views to the Saronic Gulf, the 5 star Grand Resort Lagonissi exceeds all expectations of a luxury sea front summer resort.
Grand Resort Lagonissi 40th km Athens Sounion, Lagonissi Attica, Athens
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