Makis Keravnos, head of the Ministry of Finance, and Nikodimos Damianou, head of the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, met today to discuss collaborative approaches for advancing the government's primary policy of digital transition.

Following the meeting, Mr. Keravnos stated that digital transition is a "key policy direction" integrated into the Government's Recovery and Resilience Plan. He noted that they discussed "collaboration matters between the two Ministries and established ways to have productive cooperation on all priority issues of our Government."

From his side, Mr. Damianou informed the Ministry of Finance about the actions planned by the Deputy Ministry in the field of digital transition. He emphasized that achieving the goal of digital transition and a modern, competitive digital state is a "broad, multidimensional, and complex objective that requires everyone's effort, and the Ministry of Finance's views and assistance are crucial."

Regarding the eJustice electronic justice system, Mr. Damianou mentioned that its evaluation has begun in collaboration with an external firm and the Cyprus Bar Association. He recalled that eJustice faced significant issues at its January launch, resulting in a temporary return to the preliminary iJustice system until the problems are resolved.

"Our primary goal is the proper evaluation of the system following what happened. This is underway in cooperation with an external firm and, contrary to various reports, the Cyprus Bar Association," said Mr. Damianou.

He noted that a written response was sent to the Association's President, assuring them of their significant role. A meeting with the Association is scheduled for March 12.

Answering a question about the Cybersecurity Action Plan announced by his predecessor, Mr. Damianou stated that this topic was discussed in the meeting with the Ministry of Finance. Describing cybersecurity as "of utmost importance," he noted that not much can be said about this sensitive area.

Asked if the cybersecurity initiatives extend over time, Mr. Damianou said the effort is to not have a prolonged timeline, emphasizing that ongoing enhancement in cybersecurity is essential, as it is in every contemporary business.

"The purpose of the meeting was to expedite certain aspects within this framework. We are proceeding as my predecessor announced," he added.

In response to the same question, Mr. Keravnos assured that the Ministry of Finance would fully support these efforts, working together to resolve this crucial security issue.