A groundbreaking “Digital Citizen” app, developed collaboratively by Cyprus and Greece, is set to launch on December 5, enabling digital issuance and storage of ID cards, driving licenses, and vehicle roadworthiness certificates. The announcement came from Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides during the “2nd Greece – Cyprus Summit | Advancing Together,” held in Nicosia. The event was organized by Boussias Cyprus in partnership with Invest Cyprus, under the auspices of the Republic of Cyprus and the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Strengthening Ties Between Cyprus and Greece
In his address, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the growing synergy between the two nations, underscoring their geostrategic significance in creating a robust business hub in Eastern Europe. “We aim to deepen our international footprint by leveraging the unique opportunities offered by our economies and shared position,” Mitsotakis stated.
President Christodoulides highlighted that this second Intergovernmental Summit builds on a successful foundation, following the 10 Memoranda of Cooperation signed after the first conference. These agreements, covering sectors like labor, environment, research, and innovation, have already shown tangible benefits.
Digital Transformation: A Key Pillar of Cooperation
The “Digital Citizen” app symbolizes this collaboration, merging technology with daily convenience. President Christodoulides revealed that additional documents and certificates would be integrated into the app over time, enhancing its functionality. He also lauded Greece’s support in Cyprus’s digitization efforts, which have seen a 16.3% improvement—well above the EU average of 3.1%.
The app’s interconnectivity with similar Greek systems is expected to streamline processes for citizens in both nations, a testament to what Christodoulides described as “practical outcomes of cooperation that directly benefit citizens.”
Economic Growth and Stability
Both leaders spoke highly of Cyprus’s economic progress. Christodoulides noted projections for a 3.8% growth rate in 2024, alongside unemployment dropping below 5% for the first time since 2009. Inflation is also expected to decrease to 2%, down from 3.5% in 2023. Public debt, which recently marked the largest reduction within the EU, is on track to fall below 60% of GDP by 2026.
These achievements have not gone unnoticed internationally. Moody’s recent upgrade of Cyprus to an A3 rating after 13 years reflects growing confidence in the nation’s fiscal policies and economic trajectory.
A Shared Vision for Economic Resilience
Prime Minister Mitsotakis praised Cyprus for weathering the economic crisis of the past decade with prudence and self-awareness, contrasting it with Greece’s more tumultuous journey. He highlighted bilateral trade and direct investments as areas of steady growth, with further potential in energy, shipping, and tourism.
Both leaders expressed a commitment to fostering partnerships across diverse sectors, particularly in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. “We want to see Cypriot businesses and capital play a role in Greece’s economic resurgence,” Mitsotakis stated.
A Unified Role in Europe
The leaders concluded by envisioning a united front in shaping European developments. As Mitsotakis noted, “Greece and Cyprus now contribute more than national priorities to the EU agenda. This enhances the prestige of Hellenism on the global stage.”
The summit reinforced the importance of their partnership, with the “Digital Citizen” app serving as a clear example of the tangible benefits of their collaboration.
Source: Stockwatch Cyprus