Banks in Cyprus reopened on Thursday after a 12-day lockdown, with tight controls imposed on transactions to prevent a run on deposits. The streets of the capital Nicosia remained calm, however, despite initial fears that the banks would be swarmed.
Ever since the collapse of the Soviet Union, wealthy Russians have looked to Cyprus as a safe haven for their capital, representing at least a third of the island’s wealth. But fears are growing that Russian investors may soon be looking elsewhere.
The assorted Greek bailouts have all come with drastic austerity measures. Thousands of middle class Greeks have suddenly found themselves living below the poverty line. Our correspondents in Athens draw us a portrait of Greece today.
Voters in crisis-hit Greece returned to the polls on Sunday as they attempted to elect a viable government for the second time in as many months. We asked some to share their fears and aspirations over the outcome of this crucial election.
Voters angry over austerity plans and a struggling economy are expected to deliver a blow to Greece’s two main parties in Sunday’s elections. FRANCE 24 spoke to people in Athens ahead of the vote.
Nathalie SAVARICAS 
