Typos

Yiannis Antoniou: "We do not dispute the conversations…"

Published January 9, 2026, 14:20
Yiannis Antoniou: "We do not dispute the conversations…"

Deputy Government Spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou addressed the controversy surrounding the release of a video featuring conversations between former Energy Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis, Presidential Office Director Charalambos Charalambou, and Cyfield Director Giorgos Chrysos, with a man presented as a Dutch investor. Security authorities are investigating the origin and content of the video. Mr. Antoniou stated that the conversations themselves are not disputed, but they believe that malicious audio and video editing was done to create negative impressions. He emphasized that the purpose of this action was to undermine the credibility of the President, the government, and the Republic of Cyprus. He also clarified the difference between attracting investments and illegal financial transactions, stressing that the government attracts investments through transparent processes. Regarding the role of the Presidential Office Director, Mr. Antoniou stated that it is limited to facilitating procedures for legal investments and informing interested parties. Additionally, he clarified that Mr. Chrysos had no direct contact with the President and that any meetings were part of professional meetings with the presence of third parties.