A delegation from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, including the university's Rector and administrative officials, visited Cyprus today to meet with the President of the Republic. The meeting focused on the establishment and operation of a university branch in Cyprus.

The discussion took place at 11:15 AM at the Presidential Palace, with the Minister of Education, Athina Michaelidou, also in attendance.

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During the meeting, the President of Cyprus asked the university delegation to share their thoughts on potential locations for their branch in Cyprus. The university has already engaged in discussions with multiple municipalities regarding this initiative.

Last Thursday, while touring the Famagusta district, the President reaffirmed the government's support for establishing higher education institutions in the region. Following the recent passage of legislation allowing foreign universities to set up branches in Cyprus, he emphasized the government's commitment to facilitating such initiatives. He expressed a goal of establishing at least two higher education institutions in the area.

The path for Greek universities to expand into Cyprus was officially opened on December 12, when the House of Representatives passed legislation introduced by the Ministry of Education. This law introduces regulations governing the establishment and operation of foreign university branches in Cyprus.

In addition to the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, the National Technical University of Athens (Metsovio Polytechnic) has also expressed interest. Several municipalities have similarly indicated their willingness to host university branches within their jurisdictions.

In an interview with OffsiteNews, Paralimni-Deryneia Mayor Giorgos Nikolaou highlighted the municipality's readiness to support the creation, hosting, and operation of a university campus. He underscored the academic, professional, cultural, social, and economic benefits such an institution would bring to the Famagusta district.

He also noted that Famagusta is the only district in Cyprus without a university campus, making the initiative particularly important. The region's proximity to Larnaca International Airport (a 35-minute drive), low cost of living, ease of transportation, renowned beaches and landmarks, strong industrial and tourism sectors, and ample employment opportunities for students make it an attractive location for a university branch.

Previously, OffsiteNews reported that the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens had also been in discussions with Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras. Sources indicate that Larnaca has formally expressed interest in hosting the university branch.

Correspondence between Dr. Gerasimos Siasos and Mayor Vyras involved an exchange of views on the matter. In past statements to OffsiteNews, Mayor Vyras confirmed that specific locations were proposed as potential sites for the university branch.

With strong interest from multiple municipalities and the government's active support, the decision on the final location of the university branch in Cyprus is expected to take shape in the near future.