Successfully held and with strong participation, the Business Gala Dinner of the Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry took place on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, at the Four Seasons Hotel in Limassol, under the auspices of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The event, held in English under the title “Europe’s economy and competitiveness in a changing global arena: Cyprus and Greece’s strategic roles”, brought together distinguished guests from the political, business and diplomatic communities, reaffirming the Chamber’s institutional role as a key pillar representing the business community of Limassol.
In his address, the President of the Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Mr Andreas Tsouloftas, referred to the significance of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU at a particularly critical period for Europe and the wider region, marked by intense geopolitical developments, economic challenges and energy-related issues. He noted that the theme of the evening, focusing on Europe’s economy and competitiveness in a changing international environment and the strategic role of Cyprus and Greece, was fully aligned with current European priorities.
The President of the Chamber also highlighted Limassol’s dynamic course as a regional hub for technology, research, entrepreneurship and international business activity, noting that its strategic location and strong private sector strengthen Cyprus’s connectivity with Europe.
In his address, the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Mr Michalis Damianos, representing the President of the Republic, underlined the importance of close cooperation between the public and private sectors during a period of international uncertainty and rapid geo-economic transition. He highlighted the resilience of the Cypriot economy in the face of recent crises, Cyprus’s strategic geographical position as a bridge between three continents, and its role within the framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, with emphasis on security, competitiveness, outward orientation and cohesion.
At the same time, he referred to specific initiatives of the Ministry, such as the “Save and Upgrade” scheme, as well as actions supporting SMEs, youth and women entrepreneurship, stressing that the State must act as a meaningful partner to businesses by strengthening an open, resilient and sustainable economic development model.
During the event, a high-level discussion took place with the participation of distinguished speakers:
• Harris Georgiades, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign and European Affairs, former Minister of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus
• Margaritis Schinas, former Vice-President of the European Commission
• Natasa Pilides, CEO of eWise Cyprus Ltd and former Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Cyprus
• Ugne Buraciene, Group CEO of payabl.
Special thanks were expressed to the sponsors of the event:
• Alphamega
• payabl.
• Bank of Cyprus
The evening concluded in a dynamic and high-level atmosphere, featuring extensive networking, meaningful exchanges of views and the creation of new partnerships. The strong interest and active participation of attendees confirmed that such initiatives are not merely social gatherings but serve as catalysts for cooperation and strategic dialogue, contributing in practice to the shaping of a more competitive, resilient and outward-looking business environment.
The Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry reaffirmed its commitment to continue actively supporting entrepreneurship and contributing dynamically to the economic and social development of Limassol and Cyprus.
