Cyprus Economy: Cyprus posted a €593.4m fiscal surplus in Jan–Apr 2026 (about 1.5% of GDP), with revenue up to €4.99bn and income/wealth tax receipts rising. Jobs & Labour: Unemployment fell to 4% in Q1 2026 (from 5% a year earlier), but youth unemployment remains high at 13.1% for ages 15–24. Housing & Development: Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou defended a pro-business housing approach, arguing the private sector can deliver faster than the state. Tourism: Paphos hotels are gearing up for a strong Kataklysmos weekend, with occupancy expected to top 90%, though the wider season still faces pressure. Shipping & Trade: Posidonia 2026 drew record global turnout as Cyprus pushes to strengthen its shipping footprint. Regional Connectivity: A Cyprus–Greece ferry returned for the season from Limassol, while a Cyprus–Lebanon ferry plan raised permit and safety concerns. Regulation & Finance: CySEC chair George Theocharides said crypto perps face differing legal views and stressed regulators aren’t there to “provide jobs.” Governance & EU: Cyprus’ EU Council presidency is framed around the next multiannual budget and science diplomacy direction. Agriculture: Livestock farmers plan another Nicosia protest over the foot-and-mouth response and compensation.