Cypriot, Greek, and EU officials inaugurated the first phase of the new Nicosia ring road on Wednesday, emphasizing the project’s expected benefits in reducing traffic congestion at the capital's entrance by 10%.

The project was inaugurated by Cyprus' Transport Minister, Alexis Vafeades. Greece’s Minister of Transport, Christos Staikouras, and the European Commission’s Deputy Director General for Mobility and Transport (DG Move), Herald Ruijters, also attended and addressed the ceremony.

The completion of Phase A of the new Nicosia ring road is expected to immediately reduce traffic congestion at the capital's entrance by 10%, according to Minister Vafeades. During the ceremony, he noted that the motorway will also decrease travel time by 10-15 minutes, reduce travel costs and emissions, and enhance road safety.

Staikouras and Ruijters highlighted the anticipated benefits for residents and businesses in Cyprus, noting the project’s role in the European Network of Transport, particularly the Western Balkans - Eastern Mediterranean (WBEM) Corridor and the Baltic Sea - Black Sea - Aegean Sea European Transport Corridor. Vafeades also emphasized that the motorway is the final segment of two European transport corridors, linking Cyprus with Austria and Finland.

Vafeades and Ruijters pointed out that the €55 million project received €44 million in funding from the European Commission. Vafeades further mentioned that the €35 million Phase B3 of the project is expected to launch at the beginning of 2025, with tenders for the €85 million Phase C to be announced around the same time.

Minister Staikouras underscored the EU’s significant role in supporting transport infrastructure in both Cyprus and Greece. He noted that Greece has seen a decrease in road accident fatalities, achieving the lowest rate in the EU, after implementing similar infrastructure projects. Staikouras also reaffirmed the European dimension of the Nicosia ring road, emphasizing that EU transport policies bring Greece and Cyprus closer to central and northern Europe and strengthen Cyprus' geostrategic role.

Deputy Director General Ruijters described the motorway as a crucial link for mobility and economic development across Cyprus. He added that the project aligns with Cyprus' broader vision for efficient transportation, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability. The new route will not only provide an alternative to reduce congestion in Nicosia but also improve travel times, enhance access to local businesses, and stimulate economic activity throughout the region.

Concluding his remarks at the inauguration, Ruijters reaffirmed the EU's commitment to promoting sustainable infrastructure and praised the collaborative efforts, innovation, and shared vision of all contributors involved in the project.