Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Giorgos Lillikas is currently on talks with the political parties’ leaders for the promotion of the political decision on the opening of a casino in Cyprus. Mr. Lillikas had already talks with DIKO Deputy Chairman, Nicos Cleanthous, NE.O Chairman, Nicos Koutsou and Ecologists’ MP, Giorgos Perdikis and reactions from all sides seem positive.

“We share the concerns expressed by the political parties and the government will, therefore, prepare a special study on the possible impacts that the opening of a casino will have”, Mr. Lillikas said. The Minister will have a meeting with the DISY Chairman, Nicos Anastasiades on Friday.

Mr. Lillikas also said that the outcome of the meetings with the political leaders will be included in the final proposal that will be submitted to the Council of Ministers next month. “What I will request from the Council of Ministers is the introduction of a completed study that will cover the economic and tourist aspects of the casino, as well as the social impacts. This study will be completed by the end of the year and will be brought before all the political forces of the island. Then, we will have a second round of talks to take the final decision”, Mr. Lillikas said.

After the new round of talks, the Minister will prepare the relevant bill, which will define the institutional framework that will govern the opening of a casino.