Cyprus sees economic growth and EU leaders debate deeper integration

Several news stories highlight Cyprus's economic activity within the European Union. The country led the EU in retail sales growth, its shipping minister promoted it as a strategic hub, and its startups are gaining recognition. Separately, EU researchers and small businesses are being offered new paths to innovation funding.

In broader EU discussions, a report by former European Central Bank President Mario Draghi argues the EU must become a 'genuine federation' to avoid economic decline. Another call was made for a stronger single market to improve the bloc's defenses.