In a move to strengthen Cyprus’ position as a regional innovation hub, a high-level delegation led by Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nikodemos Damianou held strategic meetings with leading technology companies in Silicon Valley. The meetings, which took place on April 7, focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud technologies and digital transformation. The delegation also met with prominent academic institutions, further solidifying Cyprus’ commitment to innovation and technology. The delegation was comprised of Deputy Minister Nikodemos Damianou, Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology Demetris Skourides, and Invest Cyprus Chairman Evgenios Evgeniou. Together, they engaged in discussions with some of the world’s most influential companies, including Amazon’s autonomous mobility subsidiary, Zoox, and Microsoft, to name a few. At Zoox, an Amazon subsidiary pioneering autonomous mobility solutions, the delegation experienced a ride in a fully autonomous vehicle specifically designed by the company for urban environments. This was a unique opportunity for the Cyprus delegation to witness the cutting-edge technology that is changing the face of transportation. The meeting with senior executives at Zoox’s headquarters provided valuable insights into the company’s innovation strategy and its potential applications in Cyprus. During the meeting with Oracle, the company’s innovation strategy, multi-cloud and AI technologies, and opportunities for cooperation with Cyprus were discussed. The delegation learned about Oracle’s approach to digital transformation and how it can be leveraged to support Cyprus’ national digital transformation agenda. One of the key takeaways from the meetings was the importance of developing human capital and a sustainable national AI framework. Skourides stressed the need for Cyprus to invest in human capital development, as well as to establish a robust national AI framework that can support the country’s digital transformation goals. The delegation also met with Stanford University’s Institute for Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence (AI), where they engaged in discussions with Panos Madamopoulos, Founding Member and Director of Industry Programs and Partnerships. The talks focused on Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystem and best international practices in AI adoption. Skourides presented Cyprus’ 2024–2026 Research and Innovation Strategy, as well as the composition of the National AI Task Force. During the meeting with ServiceNow, the Deputy Minister outlined Cyprus’ government-wide digital transformation roadmap, highlighting the country’s commitment to leveraging digital tools to modernise the public sector. Skourides elaborated on the National AI Task Force’s mission to enhance digital skills and governance structures. Evgeniou invited ServiceNow to explore investment opportunities in Cyprus, emphasizing the country’s competitive advantages. The delegation also met with Microsoft, where they engaged in discussions with Piyush Mangalick, Head of Core AI Technologies Engineering. Damianou outlined Cyprus’ government-wide digital transformation roadmap, while Skourides elaborated on the National AI Task Force’s mission to enhance digital skills and governance structures. Evgeniou highlighted Cyprus’ growing ICT sector and investment potential as a strategic gateway connecting Europe, Asia and Africa. The visit marked a milestone in Cyprus’ efforts to advance innovation, technology and international collaboration. The meetings with leading technology companies and academic institutions underscored Cyprus’ emerging role as a regional innovation hub, according to a press release from the Office of the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology. Some key points from the meetings include:
- Developing human capital and a sustainable national AI framework to support Cyprus’ digital transformation goals
- Exploring opportunities for cooperation with leading technology companies
- Investing in digital transformation to modernise the public sector
- Establishing a robust national AI framework to support digital transformation
- Enhancing digital skills and governance structures through the National AI Task Force
These meetings represent a significant step forward for Cyprus, marking the country’s commitment to innovation, technology, and international collaboration. The exchange of know-how and best practices with global tech leaders and academic institutions lays the groundwork for impactful partnerships that support Cyprus’ national strategy in AI, cloud computing and e-governance.
| Company | Meeting Topic |
|---|---|
| Zoox | A ride in a fully autonomous vehicle specifically designed by the company for urban environments |
| Oracle | The company’s innovation strategy, multi-cloud and AI technologies, and opportunities for cooperation |
| Stanford University’s Institute for Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystem and best international practices in AI adoption |
| ServiceNow | Cyprus’ government-wide digital transformation roadmap and opportunities for investment |
| Microsoft | Cyprus’ government-wide digital transformation roadmap and the National AI Task Force’s mission to enhance digital skills and governance structures |
According to the press release, the visit marked a milestone in Cyprus’ efforts to advance innovation, technology and international collaboration. “Through strategic engagements with global tech leaders and academic institutions, Cyprus’ role as an emerging innovation and digital transformation hub in the broader region was underscored,” it said.
“It is essential to recognize that innovation is not a destination, but a continuous journey. Through partnerships with global tech leaders and academic institutions, we can accelerate our digital transformation journey and create a brighter future for our citizens.
The exchange of know-how and best practices with global tech leaders and academic institutions lays the groundwork for impactful partnerships that support Cyprus’ national strategy in AI, cloud computing and e-governance. As the delegation concluded their visit, they emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in driving innovation and technology forward. “Through strategic engagements with global tech leaders and academic institutions, we can create a brighter future for our citizens,” said the Deputy Minister. The visit represents a significant step forward for Cyprus, marking the country’s commitment to innovation, technology, and international collaboration. The meetings with leading technology companies and academic institutions underscored Cyprus’ emerging role as a regional innovation hub. In the words of Evgenios Evgeniou, Invest Cyprus Chairman, “Cyprus is a strategic gateway connecting Europe, Asia and Africa. We are committed to leveraging our competitive advantages to drive growth and innovation in the ICT sector.”
These meetings are a testament to the potential of innovation and technology to drive positive change and create a brighter future for all. As Cyprus continues to advance its innovation and technology agenda, it is clear that the country is poised for significant growth and success in the years to come.
news is a contributor at Soozo. We are committed to providing well-researched, accurate, and valuable content to our readers.
