22nd Annual Cyprus Summit

The conference chairs will present the Economist’s views on recent developments and the prospects for the broader eastern Mediterranean region, at a time of rapid geopolitical, technological and social shifts.

John Peet Associate editor, special reports, The Economist

Joan Hoey Europe consultant, EIU

The international system is undergoing its most profound transformation since the end of the Cold War. As Europe seeks greater strategic autonomy, strengthens its defence capabilities and rethinks its economic model, the eastern Mediterranean is emerging as a critical arena for diplomacy, investment, and security. In this region, the Republic of Cyprus is a strong supporter of security, peace and multilateral co-operation, as well as a regional model of an open economy and society. What opportunities lie ahead, and what challenges stand in the way?

Nikos Christodoulides President of the Republic of Cyprus

This panel will discuss the role of sustainable transport in advancing Europe’s strategic autonomy and strengthening its cohesion and competitiveness. What role can the countries of south-east Europe play within this context, given their strategic location at the crossroads of Europe?

Apostolos Tzitzikostas Commissioner for sustainable transport and tourism, European Commission (recorded message)

Britain is still searching for its footing in the post-Brexit era, while the United Kingdom faces renewed questions over its internal cohesion, from Scotland and Wales to Northern Ireland. What would it take to reset Britain’s economic and political trajectory and what might a new relationship with Europe look like? The Economist in dialogue with:

Sir Julian King Former EU commissioner for the security union

Investment has traditionally relied on stability and predictability – both of which have been profoundly challenged by the turbulent geopolitical and economic landscape of recent years. This session will explore how Europe’s investment ecosystem can build greater resilience and adaptability, while simplifying processes and removing barriers to unlock higher levels of growth.

Ioannis Tsakiris Vice-president, EIB

Evgenios Evgeniou Chairman, Invest Cyprus

Stavros Stavrou President, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Andreas Yiasemides Chief executive and chairman, PwC Cyprus

Christina Ioannidou Partner, Ioannides Demetriou

In recent years, relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the United States have strengthened significantly. The two countries increasingly view closer cooperation in defence and energy as an important pillar of security and stability in the wider region. What are the next steps in this strategic partnership, and what regional challenges will it need to navigate?

John Breslow U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Cyprus

While violence, confrontation and unilateral agendas continue to shape the Middle East, can political engagement and diplomacy offer a path out of the current deadlock? What diplomatic initiatives and regional or international efforts could help pave the way towards a lasting peace? What role could political developments within Israel play in this process?

Ehud Olmert Former prime minister of Israel

Amre Moussa Former secretary-general, League of Arab States

Keynote address:

Constantinos Kombos Minister of foreign affairs, Government of Cyprus

Russia’s war against Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and evolving transatlantic dynamics are accelerating Europe’s defence awakening – at least in theory. Can Europe develop credible deterrence and strategic autonomy, and under what conditions could this be achieved? Keynote message:

Loucas Fourlas Member, European Parliament (EPP)

Can Europe successfully navigate a period of intensified economic competition and technological disruption? Speakers in this session are invited to address this question, examining both the opportunities and the structural constraints that continue to hinder the flourishing of the European economy.

Tasos Chatzivasileiou Deputy minister of foreign affairs, Government of Greece

Olga Eftychidou Head of legal, Sioufas and Associates Law Firm

The recent crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has underscored the importance of energy security at a time when Europe is accelerating its decarbonisation efforts. Against this backdrop, what role can the eastern Mediterranean play in the emerging energy landscape, and what does this mean for Cyprus, Greece and the wider region?

Michael Damianos Minister of energy, commerce and industry, Government of Cyprus

Joe Saddi Minister of energy and water, Government of Lebanon

Osama Mobarez Secretary-general, East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF)

John Ardill Vice-president, global exploration, ExxonMobil

Basil Allam Country manager, Chevron Cyprus

U.S. foreign policy is being tested by the confrontation with Iran and the continuing stalemate over Ukraine, all against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. How are the prospects evolving for the geopolitical fronts weighing on the global economy in the aftermath of the U.S. midterm elections?

John Sitilides US geopolitical strategist, senior fellow for global risks, Center for the National Interest (via connection)

Designed to connect Greece, Cyprus and Israel, the Great Sea Interconnector is at the intersection of energy security, market integration, and geopolitics in the strategically sensitive region of Eastern Mediterranean. What will it take to make the investment commercially viable? How does the growing French presence reshape the project, and what challenges does Turkey’s opposition pose for it?

Harris Georgiades Chairman, Clerides Institute, former minister of finance, Government of Cyprus

Michalis Katrinis Member of the Hellenic Parliament, PASOK – Kinima Allagis Party

Kyriakos Kenevezos Former minister of education and culture, adjunct lecturer, European University Cyprus

Constantinos Filis Director, Institute of International Affairs, associate professor, American College of Greece

From ageing populations and pharmaceutical supply chains to health technology and the rising cost of care, health systems are increasingly intertwined with economic resilience and geopolitical stability. This panel will examine how the stakeholders can create more sustainable health systems, while fostering innovation and ensuring equitable access. It will also address the question how Europe can build resilience and sovereignty in health AI rather than renting intelligence.

Josep Figueras Director emeritus, European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies

Bart De Witte Co-founder and chief executive, Isaree, founder, Hippo AI Foundation, Germany