Geography and Population
Cyprus the 3rd largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily and Sardinia),is situated in the eastern Mediterranean at the meeting point of Europe, Africa and Asia, with a total area of 9,251sq km and a population of 736,000, of which 80% are Greek Cypriots, 18% Turkish Cypriots and 2% other minorities.
The island's strategic location has been a major factor in shaping its history throughout the centuries and, in recent years, its development into an international business centre.
Cyprus with its excellent infrastructure, English based legal system, high quality of life and low cost of living in combination with a well educated labour force, offers to entrepreneurs and investors a unique package of advantages.
International Relations
Cyprus maintains diplomatic relations with most developed nations. It is a member of the European Union, the United Nations, the Council of Europe, the Commonwealth, the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.
Government and Administration
The Head of State is the President of the Republic, who is elected by the people for a five year term office.
The Council of Ministers is appointed by the President and is the main executive authority. The House of Representatives is the legislative authority and is also elected by the people for a five year term.
Human Resources
Cyprus maintains state owned elementary and secondary schools of a very high standard as well as vocational schools to satisfy the growing demand for skilled personnel by tourism and manufacturing sectors.
The island ranks amongst the leading countries of the world in terms of the proportion of university graduates.
Apart from the Cyprus University and the 3 private universities, many private schools and colleges offer tuition in English, French, Armenian, Italian, Arabic and other languages at reasonable fees.
The official languages in Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, however English is used extensively in business and government.
Economy
Cyprus economy is based on a free enterprise system. Tourism and Services have become the island's most important sectors. Out of the 2 million long-stay tourists who arrive on the island every year, about 50% originate from the EU, 25% from Russia and 25% rest of the world.
About 49% of the total trade comes from the EU.
The official languages in Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, however English is used extensively in business and government.