Cypriots use their credit cards less frequently but when they do use it, spend larger sums, according to a report by the European Central Bank (ECB) that studied credit card patterns throughout the EU and the eurozone for 2012.

The Bank of Cyprus Group has announced that it has appointed HSBC Bank to provide financial advice in relation to the disposal of a UK loan portfolio owned by the Group.

Qatar Airways has introduced its inaugural flight to Larnaca, making Cyprus the airline’s 138th destination from Doha, as other carriers also increase capacity to the island.

President Nicos Anastasiades says his government is committed to implementing the bailout programme, agreed with the Troika of international lenders, with the aim of rapid return to sustainable growth.

Efforts to restart the economy need to be based on research, technology and innovation, says President Nicos Anastasiades.

Limassol and Saint Petersburg seek to further enhance their cooperation in mutual investments, research programs, exchange of students, tourism, cultural exchanges and other fields.

Cyprus moved up one place in the March 2014 Top of the Props chart published by the TheMoveChannel.com, which records the most searched for overseas destinations to buy property.

Thailand is determined to find ways and means to further promote the bilateral trade and tourism with Cyprus, says the new Ambassador of Thailand to Cyprus, based in Rome.

Qatar Airways will commence direct flights to and from Doha and Larnaca airports on Tuesday April 29, 2014, with the first scheduled flight expected at 11.30am.

There are encouraging indications for more natural gas and also oil discoveries in Cyprus' offshore area, with natural gas explorations well underway in five licensed blocks.