On Friday, September 19, xNorth CEO Benoît Créneau had the privilege of meeting with H.E. Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus, and his delegation during their official visit to Toronto.
The visit was marked by a series of high-level discussions, including a roundtable and dinner co-organized by the French Chamber of Commerce in Canada (FCCCO) and PwC. The event was made possible thanks to the leadership of Riva Walia, Founding Managing Director of the FCCCO, and Sanjay Tugnait, Founding President of the FCCCO, who played a central role in bringing together business leaders, investors, and the Cypriot delegation to foster dialogue on trade and investment.
Cyprus: A Strategic Gateway to Europe
Cyprus is increasingly recognized as a resilient and growing economy with a strong credit rating and a strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and the Eastern Mediterranean. For Canadian companies, the country represents both a gateway to the European Union and a hub for innovation, finance, and real estate development.
The Role of Executives in International Expansion
During his discussions with the President and his team, Benoît Créneau emphasized that attracting investment requires more than financial capital. The success of cross-border ventures depends heavily on the right leadership. Experienced executives are needed to establish operations, navigate local regulations, and drive sustainable growth in new markets.
Through xNorth and the global Valtus Alliance, companies can access a trusted network of interim and specialized executives who are ready to step in quickly and provide hands-on leadership. This model ensures that international businesses investing in Cyprus can leverage not only the country’s strategic advantages but also the expertise required to succeed.
Building Bridges Between Canada and Cyprus
The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between Canadian and Cypriot business communities. Thanks to the FCCCO, PwC, and the dedication of Riva Walia and Sanjay Tugnait, participants were able to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and identify new opportunities for partnership.
For xNorth, these conversations reaffirm our mission: to provide organizations with the leadership they need to achieve impact during moments of growth, transformation, or international expansion. Cyprus presents a compelling opportunity, and we are proud to be part of shaping this dialogue.
