DISY

Cyprus' Finance Ministry fended off accusations fired by the opposition that government policy has taken its toll on the economy.

"The Cypriot economy continues its upward trend and, unlike other European countries which are entering a recession, Cyprus recorded the second highest GDP growth rate in the eurozone, after Spain, during the first half of the year," the ministry said.

Republic of Cyprus' six newly-elected Members of the European Parliament pledged to work to promote the national problem and the issues facing the people on the island.
The final results of the voting process for the election of the representatives of Cyprus at the European Parliament were announced shortly after midnight on Sunday.

The Cypriot Parliament has passed legislation aimed at providing state guarantees to Hellenic Bank in its acquisition of Cyprus Cooperative Bank's healthy portfolio.