The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, has ordered the deportation of eleven foreign nationals. These individuals were convicted of crimes. This decision aims to reduce overcrowding in prisons. It also helps to improve national security. These people will not be allowed to return to Cyprus. This is a measure to protect the public.
The deportations happen at the same time as a new government plan for 2026. This plan has more than fifty important goals. It aims to make the country modern. It also wants to improve the lives of citizens. The pardons were made official on a Friday. They are part of a larger plan. This plan is meant to make prisons less full.
Cyprus Central Prison has been very crowded for months. Living conditions are difficult. Cells are small. Sometimes four people share a small space. Some prisoners sleep on the floor. The Ministry of Justice says these actions follow the law. The goal is to improve life for prisoners. It is also to make the country safer.
This plan is part of a bigger vision for 2026. It is called "State of the Union 2026." It has five main parts. These include a strong foreign policy. It also focuses on a good economy. Modernizing the state and using digital tools are important. Fighting corruption is also a key goal. Improving health, education, and housing for citizens is also planned.
The 2026 plan includes many new digital services. A new "Digital Citizen" app will be available. Cyprus will also use artificial intelligence. A national supercomputer will be built. This will help Cyprus become a leader in technology. Online safety for children is also a focus. An app will help verify ages for social media.
President Christodoulides is hopeful about reuniting Cyprus. He wants to follow United Nations rules. He is ready to talk again. However, some media are critical. They say the government talks a lot. They worry about current economic problems. Low wages and high prices are issues. Reports about prison conditions may have helped the government act.