Melco International Development Limited, who won the right to develop and operate the first casino resort in the country along with Hard Rock, recently announced that they could open a temporary training facility in Limassol in 2017.  The government approved a measurement in 2015 that stated that companies could build a multi-purpose complex with entertainment options.  Melco-Hard Rock will be granted a 15 year exclusivity period for the full US$540 million facility that is set to be constructed close to the harbor.  The casino will feature more than 1,000 slots and 100 table games, along with a 500 room hotel.  The final opening date is close to the end of 2019.  Giorgos Lakkotrypis, Minister For Energy, Commerce, Industry And Tourism, said: “We have set the bar very high and we seem to be getting there.  I believe that you will be impressed by the plans, which we will present to you at some point shortly.”  Lakkotrypis also said that at a subsequent stage, they shall be ready to appoint the gaming authority.