The Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus, Demetris Skourides, was honored with the title of Global Leader during the Global Business Conclave 2025 awards ceremony, according to a statement from his office.

The award ceremony took place at the House of Lords in Westminster, UK, in the presence of distinguished figures, including Lord Meghnad Desai, Baroness Sandip Verma, former ministers, and ambassadors. Keynote speeches highlighted the significance of leadership and the inspiration of future generations.

According to the announcement, the Global Business Conclave is a premier interdisciplinary forum that brings together globally influential leaders, government officials, opinion shapers, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and key figures from finance, technology, human resources, marketing, and communications. It also recognizes women leaders shaping the future of global business, technology, and sustainable development.

“The recognition of the Chief Scientist among the top 100 international leaders for 2025, selected from 5,000 nominations, is not just a personal achievement for Mr. Skourides. It also marks a significant distinction for Cyprus, acknowledging his efforts in internationalizing the country's research and innovation ecosystem with unprecedented impact in less than 18 months,” stated his office.

It further emphasized that through strategic partnerships, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and innovative programs, this recognition adds substantial value to Cyprus, creating major opportunities for the Cypriot business and innovation ecosystem.

“It is our responsibility to push boundaries and create new opportunities for Cyprus,” Skourides stated during the ceremony. “Beyond the nation’s high standards of research excellence, awards like this highlight Cyprus’ transformation into a key player in the global knowledge economy, services sector, research, and innovation. The country is becoming a hub for the development of cutting-edge ideas and high-level technological solutions, leveraging the exceptional talent of its local workforce,” he added.

Additionally, the announcement noted that Demetris Skourides was included in the Denim Club, G100, joining the Global Advisory Committee for Humanity, Innovation, and Technology as part of the G100 Mission Millions initiative of the Women Economic Forum as a Global Advisor. The Denim Club, G100, is an exclusive, high-impact network of leaders with direct influence over policymakers, international institutions, and economic forums.

Committee members are selected based on their contributions and expertise, forming a board of prominent figures in technology, governance, business, and academia. The G100 plays a crucial role in shaping policies that promote digital transformation, innovation, and sustainable economic growth worldwide.

Speaking about this distinguished recognition, Demetris Skourides expressed his deep appreciation to the event organizers, White Page International. He also conveyed his gratitude to all esteemed participants and visionaries whose work is shaping the industries of tomorrow.

“To stand among some of the world’s most innovative, pioneering, and influential leaders is both an honor and a responsibility,” he said. “It strengthens my commitment to building a future driven by cutting-edge technologies, sustainable progress, and global collaboration. Cyprus is not merely adapting to the future—it is actively shaping it. Together, we are laying the foundations for a thriving innovation ecosystem,” he added.

Finally, Skourides thanked the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, for his trust and support, as well as the Council of Ministers, his wife and family, the Research and Innovation Foundation, and the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy.