Aleksandar Jovanovic

CYPRUS The pearl of the Mediterranean

Cyprus is located in the northeast of the Mediterranean, at the intersection point of Europe, Asia and Africa. From the dawn of history, Cyprus consists one of the most interesting places of the area, with a rich cultural history. Ancient Greeks and the period of the Byzantine Empire have left a strong heritage, that nowadays, any visitor can visit and admire. Cyprus is bordering with Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Egypt. The north part of Cyprus has been occupied by Turkey since 1974. In 1983, after violating the Charter of the United Nations, Turkey proceeded into declaring the so-called «Turkish Democratic Republic of Northern Cyprus» that until today it is only recognised by Turkey. Cyprus is gifted with golden beaches, primeval forests and other wonderful natural landscapes. The environment of the island is now among the healthiest of the world, free of the pollution and other side-effects of the industrial counties. As far as criminality is concerned, it is almost non-existent. Cyprus enjoys a wonderful Mediterranean climate. Apart from the rainfall period between November and March, Cyprus is constantly sunny. The average temperatures range from 8°C (42°F), during the coldest month, December, to 35°C (96°F) during the warmest month, which is August. However, weather is not the only attractive characteristic of the island. The people of Cyprus are equally famous, for the warm and friendly welcoming they provide to their visitors. In May, 2004, Cyprus became officially a member of the European Union and in 2008 entered the Eurozone, thus connecting Europe and Middle East and the rest of the world. Having been recognized as the ultimate business and financial centre in the wider area, the island has competitive advantages in sectors such as tourism, provision of consulting services, banking and insuring services, investments and construction business, shipping and telecommunications.