The
Minister of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mr Yiorgos
Lakkotrypis concluded
his two day visit in the Netherlands, by attending today at the Big
Improvement Day in Amsterdam as key note speaker, where he presented
the investment potentials in Cyprus.
In
his presentation, Mr. Lakkotrypis described the current economic
environment of Cyprus which retains its competitive advantages. He
also underlined areas of opportunity in the fields of Professional
Services, Shipping, Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy and Tourism.
The
Minister pointed out that Cyprus continues to benefit from a low
corporate tax rate, favorable double-taxation treaties, a
well-educated labor force, common law system, strong institutions and
relatively low structural barriers to growth. These are expected to
support the service sector - in particular legal, accounting and
consulting services, as well as tourism - which will drive
medium-term growth. He noted
that in Cyprus there are important renewable energy
opportunities, with over twenty licensed
projects in progress.
Mr.
Lakkotrypis mentioned that the competitive legislation enacted in
April 2010 is the only EU approved tonnage tax regime with benefits
for ship-owning, ship-management and crew members.
A
special reference was made regarding the Oil & Gas
exploration and exploitation of offshore
resources in a sustainable way.
The
Minister also referred to the tourism industry in Cyprus noting that
2.5 million tourists are expected to visit Cyprus in 2014. He
highlighted the fact that Cyprus ranks first in the list of countries
with the cleanest beaches in Europe.
Minister
Lakkotrypis was introduced to the audience by member of the BID Board
and cultural activist and entrepreneur, founder and owner of “Walk
of Truth” Ms Tasoula Hadjitofi who invited the Dutch entrepreneurs
to take advantage of the investment opportunities in Cyprus which
would also help the country deal with its economic situation.
Mr
Lakkotrypis was also received by his Dutch counterpart Henk Kamp with
whom they discussed issues of mutual concern. He also attended with
his associates a number of presentations by Dutch officials in the
domain of energy.
Mr.
Lakkotrypis had the opportunity to meet important personalities from
the Netherlands from both the public and private sector. Among others
Mr. Lakkotrypis he had discussions with Mr. Mark Frequin Director
General of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations, Mr
Pieter Cloo Secretary General of the Ministry of Security and Justice
and Mr Leon van Halder Secretary General of the Ministry of Health,
Wellness and Sports.
_______________
