Cypriot President, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Monday that the country’s responsible fiscal policy allows it to absorb crises such as the foot-and-mouth disease and provide livestock farmers with significantly increased compensation.
Speaking at a celebratory event to mark the 85th anniversary of the Panagrotic Union of Cyprus, the President said compensation for affected livestock is being offered at levels approximately 150%-200% higher than European reference prices.
Christodoulides expressed confidence that, through continued cooperation with agricultural organizations, timely responses, and consistent implementation of biosecurity measures, Cyprus will overcome the current challenge and ensure stability for the livestock sector.
In his address, the President also highlighted ongoing challenges related to water resources. He said a comprehensive pound 168 million package has been developed for new infrastructure, reducing water losses, and boosting water production. Currently, Cyprus utilizes 90% of its reclaimed water – a rate significantly higher than the European Union average – covering 37% of irrigation needs.
‘The goal is to fully cover drinking water supply through desalination units and reserve dam water exclusively for the needs of our farmers,’ he said.
Christodoulides added that, for the first time, a special drought measure has been activated, allocating pound 10.2 million for 2025. In addition, pound 31.5 million have been provided through the agricultural production protection and insurance fund, bringing total support to pound 41.7 million for farmers affected by drought in 2024 and 2025.
He stressed the importance of long-term planning, including the preparation of a study on adapting agriculture to climate change. The aim, he said, is to strengthen resilience and ensure national food security through the development of a Ten-Year National Action Plan.
The President also noted that the Strategic Plan under the Common Agricultural Policy – the main funding tool for the primary sector – is being effectively utilized, with a total budget of pound 454 million.