Energy Infrastructure Debate: Cyprus is urged to treat the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) as strategic infrastructure, not just a €50m cost, with experts arguing it could turn the island into an Eastern Mediterranean energy hub. Power Reliability: Blackouts hit parts of Cyprus after a coordination issue between solar farms and the supply system cut around 100MW, with restoration efforts underway. Inflation & Cost of Living: Cyprus inflation is running at 4.4% (July), among the EU’s highest, with sharp pressure on restaurant/hotel prices (+12%) and energy-related costs. Consumer Prices Watch: The Consumer Protection Service’s July observatory flags fresh vegetables up 32.4% year-on-year and overall essentials still climbing. Economy Snapshot: Cyprus GDP growth is confirmed at 3.3% for Q2, supported by trade, communications, finance and construction. Construction & Permits: Construction activity is mixed across Europe, while Cyprus sees a surge in building permits (+45.5%) alongside shifting tourism demand. Shipping & Policy: Limassol will host EU maritime ministers from Cyprus, Greece, Malta and Italy on Sept 9 to discuss competitiveness and decarbonisation. Urban Regeneration: Nicosia launches a competition to regenerate the historic Municipal Gardens (1901), with an estimated €4.1m study and restoration plan. Digital & Finance: Keve invites businesses to an EU-India AI and digital innovation webinar (Sept 4), while INGOT Group’s Rise app expands trading access and Capital.com moves toward UAE spot crypto services. Maritime/Industry Events: Gamescom 2026 sells out its exhibition floor for the first time, with Cyprus among new country pavilions.