The economy of the Famagusta district is coming under growing strain from the fallout of developments in the Middle East, with Paralimni-Deryneia mayor Giorgos Nikolettos warning that the new tourist season will depend in part on how quickly Cyprus can restore confidence in key foreign markets. 

In a written statement, Nikolettos welcomed the government’s recently announced support measures, but said additional steps could still be taken so that assistance is applied more broadly across the tourism industry. 

He said the district’s economy was being “severely tested” by the regional situation, adding that the municipality was in constant contact with hoteliers, Ayia Napa municipality, Pasyxe, Etap Famagusta, airlines and tour agencies in an effort to push for targeted interventions at decision-making centres. 

According to Nikolettos, the priority now is to ensure that the state’s response is timely, substantial and effective, particularly as uncertainty continues to weigh on bookings and business planning ahead of the summer season. 

He also called for immediate clarification on how the announced support measures will be implemented, saying businesses need clear answers on whether the schemes cover units already in operation and what will apply to those due to open after April first.

“In a period where every day of operation entails significant costs and every decision directly affects employment and the viability of businesses, clarity is of crucial importance,” Nikolettos said. 

At the same time, he argued that Cyprus must step up efforts to project itself internationally as a stable and secure European destination, saying the country’s image abroad has a direct bearing on reservations, market confidence and the course of this year’s tourist season. 

He also said a special fund should be set aside for the targeted promotion of Cyprus, and especially the free Famagusta district, as a safe, organised and hospitable destination. 

In a separate post, Nikolettos said the municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia was pressing ahead with preparations for the start of the tourist season, as the area gets ready to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to choose it for their holidays this year. 

Nikolettos finally said works and interventions were continuing to improve infrastructure, upgrade public spaces and strengthen access for residents and visitors to beaches, leisure areas and tourist zones.