welcomemagazinecy.com - Welcome Magazine

The Cypriot Pharmaceutical Company That Conquered the World

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 09:06:19 +0000

Behind five decades of growth and international recognition lies a story of vision, courage and perseverance, which has become one of the most remarkable business success stories in modern Cyprus.

In 1976, when Cyprus was still striving to recover and rebuild its economic and social foundations following the events of 1974, a young physician, Dr Andreas Pittas, chose not to pursue the certainty of a conventional professional career. Instead, he dared to pursue what many at the time considered almost impossible: the creation of an internationally competitive pharmaceutical company in Cyprus. This was the beginning of Medochemie in Limassol.

The origins of this journey can be traced back several years earlier, when Dr Pittas was studying medicine in Austria and discovering the fascinating world of pharmacology.

It was there that he realised that serving humanity could extend far beyond the practice of medicine itself. It could also be achieved through the development and production of high-quality pharmaceutical products capable of improving the lives of millions of people.

Upon his return to Cyprus, circumstances were far from favourable. Infrastructure was limited, opportunities for industrial development were scarce, and the prospect of establishing a Cypriot pharmaceutical company with an international outlook seemed unrealistic to many.

For Dr Pittas, however, his vision was never a distant aspiration. It was a profound conviction that Cyprus could build its own pharmaceutical industry and secure a respected place on the global pharmaceutical map.

The journey that followed was demanding. Securing resources, acquiring expertise, establishing manufacturing facilities and gaining the trust of international markets posed ongoing challenges.

Yet from the very beginning, one principle remained non-negotiable: quality would not be optional. It would be the foundation of the company’s existence.

Through meticulous work, unwavering determination and a steadfast commitment to the highest European standards, Medochemie gradually expanded its footprint beyond Cyprus. Early international partnerships laid the groundwork for an outward-looking strategy that would eventually become one of the country's most significant business success stories.

Fifty Years of Medochemie. Worldwide. Every Day.

Half a century later, the vision of that young doctor has evolved into the largest pharmaceutical company in Cyprus and one of the most prominent ambassadors of Cypriot pharmaceutical excellence worldwide.

Today, Medochemie operates 15 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, certified to the stringent EU GMP standards, nine of which are in Cyprus, one in the Netherlands and five in Vietnam.

The company also has offices in 19 countries and exports its products to 120 markets worldwide..

As Cyprus’ leading pharmaceutical exporter, Medochemie makes a significant contribution to the country’s industrial exports. Every product bearing the company’s name serves as an ambassador for Cypriot scientific expertise, innovation and manufacturing excellence across international markets.

Behind this success stand more than 2,000 employees worldwide whose knowledge, dedication and professionalism have played a decisive role in shaping the company’s modern identity.

For Medochemie, progress is measured not only by financial performance and international distinctions, but also through the creation of an environment that invests in knowledge, research, innovation and the development of its people.

A Lasting Contribution to Society

Medochemie’s contribution extends far beyond pharmaceutical manufacturing.

For five decades, the company has played an active role in the social, cultural and sporting life of Cyprus, supporting initiatives that promote education, culture, sports, scientific research and social cohesion.

Through a comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility programme, Medochemie continuously invests in youth education, environmental protection, healthcare and the well-being of local communities, reaffirming its belief that business success acquires its greatest value when accompanied by meaningful social contribution.

The company’s contributions and achievements have repeatedly received recognition both in Cyprus and internationally.

Medochemie has been honoured fifteen times with the Industrial Export Award, twice with the Special Export Award, and has also received the Honorary Export Award. Furthermore, the prestigious European distinction Ruban d’Honneur has ranked the company among Europe’s leading export businesses.

These distinctions reflect a journey grounded in consistency, expertise and long-term strategic vision.

Fifty Years Later, Looking Towards the Future

Marking the fiftieth anniversary of the company’s founding, Medochemie’s Founder and Executive Chairman, Dr Andreas Pittas, stated:

"Fifty years later, I feel deeply grateful, not only for what we have achieved but above all for the people who have shared this journey with us. Medochemie is first and foremost its people. Those who believed in a common purpose and worked consistently, with integrity and dedication, to transform that purpose into reality."

Today, as Medochemie enters the second half-century of its history, the company continues to invest in research, new technologies, sustainable development and the further strengthening of its international presence, while remaining firmly committed to the principles that have guided it since its very first day.

Fifty years after its establishment, Medochemie continues to write its own chapter in the history of Cypriot entrepreneurship and the global pharmaceutical industry, carrying forward the principles and values that inspired Dr Andreas Pittas in 1976 and continue to shape the company’s evolution to this day.

Cyprus Seeds Reinforces its Position as the Island’s Premier Scientific Innovation Catalyst at the DOERS Summit 2026

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 08:56:54 +0000

Cyprus Seeds successfully concluded its dynamic participation at the recent DOERS Summit in Limassol, firmly reinforcing its unique position as the only scientific innovation catalyst on the island. Drawing a full house across its two headline events, Cyprus Seeds demonstrated its powerful ecosystem reach by bringing together deep-tech startups, scientific entrepreneurs, and high-profile international investors.

Over the course of the Summit, which attracted thousands of people from the deep-tech community across Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, Cyprus Seeds anchored the deep-tech conversation not only through its own dedicated events but also by contributing valuable insights to various panel discussions throughout the Summit's broader agenda.

A convenor for scientific innovation

Cyprus Seeds curated two packed-out events, designed to bridge the gap between scientific breakthrough and market commercialization:

• Investors’ Hour (Thursday, May 21): Hosted at the Big Dome (Kolla Factory), this inaugural, exclusive session, brought together a curated cohort of 8 research-driven startups and 16 prominent investors, venture funds and corporate ecosystem representatives from Cyprus, Europe and the Diaspora. The high-energy session featured strict 3-minute startup pitches followed by a rapid-fire 2-minute Q&A with experts, connecting top-tier regional talent with critical private capital (VCs and business angels).

• Innovation Showcase ("Demo Day" - Friday, May 22): the fourth iteration of our annual innovation showcase, or “demo day”, featured a packed house of attendees on the second day of the Summit. The event showcased startups and alumni of Cyprus Seeds’ 4th support cycle, accompanied by inspirational talks, a seaside chat and three thematic panel discussions, involving investors, mentors, scientific entrepreneurs and government officials, demonstrating the breadth of inter-sectoral support for Cyprus Seeds’ approach.

Empowering the Deep-Tech Pipeline

For the past seven years, Cyprus Seeds has been at the forefront of supporting the commercialization of scientific research, from the lab to the market and deep-tech innovation in Cyprus. To date, the organization has helped more than 24 academic and research teams transform their intellectual property into viable ventures with global potential, leading to the creation of multiple successful spinoffs and licensing agreements.

Beyond Cyprus Seeds’ alumni, the startups featured at the DOERS Summit also included hand-picked teams from Greece, the UK, Egypt and India, including: Mammocheck Ltd, A.G. FREYIA LABS Ltd, Pitys.ai Ltd (Cyprus/UK), Podisense Ltd, MEDTL Medical Tech., Axioniq, Cluster (Egypt) and Cluix (India).

Elite Investor Networking

The Investors' Hour, organized by Cyprus Seeds on the first day of the Doers Summit, drew a distinguished roster of institutional and private capital, demonstrating Cyprus Seeds' capacity to attract global financial eyes to Cypriot innovation. Participating funds and groups included 33 East, Bulba Ventures, Kinisis Ventures, KOS Technology Partners, Uni.Fund, Zubr Capital, ICLUB Global, Keystones Denmark, Eurobank Cyprus, Samsung Ventures, Eleon Capital, and Berytech.

By orchestrating these high-level interactions and contributing more broadly to the Summit's panels and networking opportunities, Cyprus Seeds has once again proved that it is the vital, singular engine driving scientific research out of the laboratory and onto the global corporate stage.

About Cyprus Seeds

Cyprus Seeds is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the commercialization of innovative scientific research and deep-tech in Cyprus. Through grants, as well as from pro bono mentoring, entrepreneurial training, and direct networking with regional and international investors, Cyprus Seeds helps academic and research teams transform their technological breakthroughs into impactful, fundable, scalable ventures. As of 2027, Cyprus Seeds will also be supporting early stage deep-tech startups from Cyprus and the Diaspora.

Media Contact

Maria Rosaria (Mariella) Philippou
Head of Operations, Marketing and Communication
Cyprus Seeds
mariella@cyprusseeds.com

Repatriation of a Cypriot Antiquity from Canada

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 09:04:41 +0000

The Department of Antiquities, Deputy Ministry of Culture, announces that on the 29th of May 2026, one (1) Cypriot antiquity was handed over to the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Ottawa, Canada. The antiquity was originally detected on May 6, 2025, during an online auction by Department of Antiquities Officers responsible for monitoring the illicit trafficking of Cypriot antiquities on the internet.

Following a coordinated one-year effort involving the Department of Antiquities, the Cyprus Police, Interpol, the Ministry of Justice and Public Order of Cyprus, and the Department of Justice of Canada, the holder of the antiquity decided to return it to its country of origin.

The antiquity is a Black Polished ware hemispherical bowl with incised decoration, dating to the Early Cypriot III/ Middle Cypriot I period (around 1900 BC).

The Department of Antiquities expresses its sincere gratitude to all the agencies that contributed to this process, as well as to the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Ottawa for its cooperation and coordination during the repatriation process.

University of Cyprus Launches its First Joint English-Taught Bachelor’s Degree Programme: YUFE Bachelor in Urban Sustainability Studies

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 03:39:25 +0000

The University of Cyprus is now accepting applications for the YUFE Bachelor in Urban Sustainability Studies, an innovative English-taught undergraduate programme starting in September 2026.

Offered within the framework of the Young Universities for the Future of Europe (YUFE) alliance, the programme provides students a unique opportunity to study and learn across multiple European universities, benefiting from a flexible and interdisciplinary learning experience.

As contemporary cities face growing environmental, social, and economic challenges, the programme equips students with the knowledge and skills required to contribute to sustainable urban development. Through international mobility, collaborative learning, and flexible study pathways, students develop valuable global experience and skills for the world of tomorrow.

The programme coordinator, Professor Nadia Charalambous of the Department of Architecture, stated: "We are particularly proud to offer this innovative joint bachelor's programme — a first for the University of Cyprus. We designed it with students in mind who want to understand the cities they live in, critically engage with issues of urban sustainability, and actively contribute to shaping the urban future. Through the mobility, interdisciplinarity, and European dimension of the programme, they gain not only a degree of the highest European standards, but also the tools to become true agents of change."

The YUFE Bachelor in Urban Sustainability Studies promotes a student-centred approach to higher education, enabling participants to shape their own academic journey within a multicultural European environment.

This new programme further strengthens the University of Cyprus’ commitment to innovative, inclusive, and European higher education.

With an open outlook on the world, the University of Cyprus transforms its promise into action.

Applications are now open.

Deadline for applications for European Economic Area students: 20 July 2026

Deadline for applications for non-European Economic Area students: 14 June 2026        

For more information and to apply, visit:
YUFE Bachelor – Young Universities for the Future of Europe

Online Information Session – 29 June 2026 (18:00–19:00 EEST)

Join the YUFE Bachelor Live Session hosted by the University of Cyprus, where prospective students will have the opportunity to learn more about the programme, its unique features, admission requirements, and study opportunities.

For further information about the event, please visit:

https://www.yufe.eu/event/yufe-bachelor-live-session-ucy/

Registration is required and can be completed via the following link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yYe7BSu5SImSRQCfQZN6Hg

The Joint Bachelor in Urban Sustainability Studies is an interdisciplinary programme focused on urban sustainability, combining knowledge from environmental sciences, economics, urban planning, policy, and social sciences. Its aim is to develop analytical, research, and practical skills to address complex challenges and design sustainable solutions for cities.

The programme has a duration of three years (180 ECTS). The first year provides a common academic foundation, while the second and third years offer flexibility through the selection of YUFE minors and mobility across European universities. The programme concludes with a bachelor thesis.

It has received accreditation from the NVAO (Higher Education Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders), ensuring high European quality standards, and its operation has been approved by the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth and the Council of Ministers in Cyprus.

Mobility is a core component: students begin at the University of Cyprus and then study at two to three partner universities, including Maastricht University, University of Antwerp, University of Bremen, University of Essex, University of Eastern Finland, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Sorbonne Nouvelle University, University of Rijeka, and Nicolaus Copernicus University.

Students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of YUFE Minors offered across these partner universities, covering thematic areas such as environmental sustainability, urban planning, governance, economics, and social development. Each Minor corresponds to 30 ECTS and is designed in a blended format, combining on-site courses at the host university with online courses provided by other institutions within the alliance.

The programme’s Intended Learning Outcomes are organised into three main categories: knowledge, research, and transferable skills. In this way, they combine theoretical knowledge with practical and applied competences, responding directly to the needs of the contemporary labour market.

Employment prospects are particularly broad, as graduates can work in local and regional authorities, European institutions, urban planning consultancies, and environmental management organisations. Indicatively, they may be employed as sustainability consultants, officers in municipalities and regional administrations, researchers in think tanks, or professionals in NGOs and international organisations active in climate policy and urban development. At the same time, graduates have the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in related fields.

The Landmark Nicosia welcomes the first Sumosan Restaurant in Cyprus

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 02:40:33 +0000

The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection by Marriott, owned by MHV Mediterranean Hospitality Venture, proudly announces the most exciting new restaurant arrival in Cyprus, as it welcomes the first ever Sumosan restaurant in the country. After Courchevel, Doha, Riyadh, Berlin, Montenegro, Elounda, Nicosia celebrates the latest Sumosan Restaurant in Europe, nestled within its most emblematic hotel.

Sumosan Nicosia is opening its doors on June 12 in a few days inside the most prestigious address of Cyprus, debuting at The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection Hotel. The internationally acclaimed restaurant brings its signature contemporary Japanese cuisine combined with Sumosan’s exemplary warm hospitality to Nicosia. Staying true to its identity, while adapting to the local context, Sumosan Nicosia creates the perfect dining experience for any occasion. The iconic restaurant is known for bringing together exceptional ingredients with genuine culinary passion, blending creativity and bold flavours to create a contemporary Japanese dining experience shaped by energy, warmth and a strong sense of identity.

Located on the ground floor of The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection by Marriott, the new venue boasts of earthy tones and natural materials, while exuding a soothing Asian-forward vibe, gracefully blending with Mediterranean touches. The elegant interiors open up to a lush exterior dining space, both ideal for indulging in the signature Sumosan dishes, such as the the Sumosan Lobster Salad, the Sashimi Taquitos, the Wasabi Prawns and the Miso Black Cod, as well as new additions created especially for Sumosan Nicosia.

The sophisticated cocktail list, showcasing a harmonious blend of classic and avant-garde mixology creations, and the extensive wine and sake menu add an extra touch of elegance and furtherly elevate the culinary experience. The arrival of Sumosan Nicosia is coming to complete the unique puzzle of dining and entertainment options offered by the brand-new The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection by Marriott, which from the very first day of its opening is introducing the eclectic local and international crowd of Nicosia to a new luxury lifestyle concept, unlike any other to be found in Cyprus.

About Sumosan

Sumosan is more than a restaurant — it is a celebration of contemporary Japanese cuisine, artfully blending authenticity with innovation. Born from a passion for uniting people through the shared joy of exceptional food, Sumosan welcomes guests into a world alive with energy. The captivating spectacle of the open kitchen, the dynamic ambiance of the bar, and the effortless rhythm of service are designed to ignite the senses and create unforgettable moments among friends and strangers alike.

The menu at Sumosan showcases inventive and unexpected flavor combinations, elevating traditional Japanese dishes to bold new heights. From delicate small plates to indulgent mains and extraordinary desserts, every element of the experience is thoughtfully curated, defined by warmth, genuine hospitality, and meticulous attention to detail.

With locations in some of the world’s most vibrant cities, the family-owned brand attracts an international clientele seeking to combine the enjoyment of elevated dining with an immersive and energetic atmosphere.

Location: The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection

For reservations, please contact 22653500, reservations@sumosancyprus.com

Stay tuned for more updates on @sumosan.cyprus

About The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection Hotel

Owned by MHV- Mediterranean Hospitality Venture, this is the first and only hotel in Cyprus to join the prestigious Autograph Collection by Marriott. The brand-new, 5-star city hotel perfectly mixes business with leisure, while honouring the legacy and heritage of its iconic building. With 265 rooms and 18 suites, the hotel features three restaurants -including Cyprus’ first Sumosan, as well as a new fascinating wine, dine & deli resto concept, Vetrina - indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, salon, gym, tennis and padel courts, a grand ballroom, versatile meeting spaces, a gallery, and luxury boutiques. Adjacent to the hotel are the imposing The Landmark Nicosia Towers and a lush 10.000 sq.m. park.

Limassol welcomes the first luxury collection residences in Cyprus

Wed, 27 May 2026 06:33:04 +0000

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, is proudly welcoming The Residences at Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, a magnificent set of homes under The Luxury Collection brand, the first of its kind in Cyprus. The stunning new lifestyle residences tower, envisioned and brought to life by MHV Mediterranean Hospitality Venture, raises the bar of luxury living in the country, while blending local culture with high-end aesthetics to deliver a “home-away-from-home” collection for global discerning aspirants.

Within the expansive setting of Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, the new, ultra-premium residential tower includes only 37 residences, offering an exclusive opportunity to own property in this treasured address.

Boasting architectural forms that become one with their natural setting, and interiors, The Residences are designed by HBA, one of the world’s leading hospitality interior design firms, and combine distinctive facilities with strong local elements, thus creating spaces with a sense of place. The Cypriot botanicals, the Lefkara lace, the golden spirals constructed by the local bees; all become part of the design narrative of Parklane Residences, Limassol, mixing textiles, fabrics, shade & light, motifs and patterns to deliver spaces igniting dreams and emotions.

Jaidev Menezes, Regional Vice President – Mixed-Use Development, EMEA, Marriott International commented, “With the introduction of Parklane Residences, Limassol, we are proud to strengthen our longstanding relationship with MHV. These Luxury Collection Residences blend magnificent décor, impeccable service and seaside address, raising the bar for luxury living in Cyprus.”

Parklane Residences, Limassol, slated for a20230 opening, will bring a new way of experiencing slow-paced, sensory, luxury living in Cyprus. Apart from enjoying exclusive facilities and access to Marriott’s owner recognition platform, offering Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status upgrade, homeowners can also access the renowned dining, retail and entertainment options within the award-winning seafront Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol.

https://parklaneresidence.com/

About Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol

Parklane Resort & Spa Limassol is owned by MHV Mediterranean Hospitality Venture Limited and is a member of Marriott International’s The Luxury Collection brand. It is the only internationally branded 5-star resort in Cyprus and features, respectively, the country's only Thalassotherapy Centre, Kalloni SPA, and the largest children's activity park in Europe, Explorers Kids Club. Built next to a 300-metre-long sandy beach, the resort captures the essence of the distinctive Cypriot hospitality, the sophisticated aura of Limassol, and the cosmopolitanism of the island of Aphrodite, making it an ideal destination for couples, families, groups of friends, or solo travellers looking for an unforgettable getaway. Designed by Harrods Interiors and decorated by French creative studio Atelier 27, its aesthetics is a modern interpretation of the long-standing local history and perfumery tradition that dates back to the region's antiquity. It has 222 rooms, 34 suites and 18 villas of unique design, six excellent restaurants and bars, meeting rooms, a huge 800m 2 ballroom, sports facilities, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a gym, a hairdressing salon, and an exclusive Retail Village featuring luxury monobrand stores, including DIOR Men, DIOR Women, LORO PIANA, LOEWE, CELINE and BOTTEGA VENETA.

About MHV Mediterranean Hospitality Venture:

MHV Mediterranean Hospitality Venture specialises in upscale hospitality and the development of premium residential and commercial projects. Aiming to create extraordinary destinations that blend luxury, innovation, and a deep respect for local cultural heritage, MHV is redefining luxury living and business environments by delivering world-class experiences.

The ultimate destination for the Holy Spirit long weekend

Tue, 26 May 2026 08:35:11 +0000

For the Holy Spirit long weekend, Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa invites guests to experience a unique seaside stay, where luxury, relaxation, and lifestyle come together in perfect harmony.

At Nammos Limassol, the experience is elevated with exclusive parties and DJs Cerrano & Cristone on May 29 and 30, while the beloved GoldSingers will perform on May 31 and June 1, creating an unforgettable entertainment atmosphere. Guests will also have the opportunity to discover Nammos Limassol’s newly launched menu, featuring exceptional flavors and elevated Mediterranean-inspired dining.

The culinary journey continues at La Petite Maison (LPM) Restaurant, featuring the signature La Vie en Rose Brunch on weekends and refined dinner options daily, inspired by French cuisine.

The resort’s Retail Village enhances the hospitality experience into a fully curated luxury shopping destination, hosting top fashion houses such as Dior, Loro Piana, Loewe, Celine, and Bottega Veneta. A space where high aesthetics, exclusivity, and personalized service create a shopping experience comparable to the world’s leading fashion capitals.

At The Gallery, the experience becomes a daily lifestyle meeting point. With panoramic views of the Mediterranean and breathtaking sunsets, guests can enjoy a wide selection of brunch options, as well as an exceptional Pan-Asian cuisine menu for both lunch and dinner, all served in a relaxed yet refined setting ideal for every moment of the day.

The pools and beach of the resort are just a few steps away, naturally completing the experience with refreshing, laid-back moments by the water under the Mediterranean sun.

For those staying at the resort during the long weekend, late check-out until 6:00 PM on Monday, June 1, is offered so guests can fully enjoy the facilities and the hotel experience.

Parklane is the ultimate destination for this summer, where relaxation, luxury, and positive energy are always present, creating memories that last forever.

For more information:
Tel. +357 25862000 / reservations@parklanecyprus.com / WhatsApp: +357 99011237