President Nikos Christodoulides has convened a critical meeting on Tuesday to discuss the future of Larnaca port, following weeks of controversy and a postponed protest over its temporary administration. The meeting, set to take place at 10am at the presidential palace, will include Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras, the President of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Stavros Stavrou, and Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis.

Speaking on the sidelines of Epiphany celebrations in Ayia Napa, the transport minister emphasised that the meeting, organised by the president, aims to address the development and strategic direction of the port.

“Our priority is to determine what is best for Larnaca and Cyprus as a whole,” said Vafeadis. He added, “We approach this discussion with an open mind, free from preconceived notions and are committed to making decisions that serve the interests of Larnaca and the country.”

A planned protest against the appointment of a private administrator for Larnaca port was postponed on December 13 after the president personally intervened, promising an “open agenda” meeting within two weeks. The protest, initially set for mid-December, has been rescheduled for January 11, 2025, depending on the outcomes of Tuesday’s discussion.

The protest was sparked by Larnaca’s development committee, which comprises municipal officials and MPs. They expressed strong objections to the government’s plan to temporarily hand over port operations to a private administrator, citing concerns about potential disruption to long-term projects and local interests.

The future of Larnaca port has been a topic of increasing significance, with stakeholders considering its role in economic development, trade and tourism.