Brussels, 3 September 2024
Today, the EU Commission adopted the 2024 Annual Action Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, allocating €39.5 million in new EU funding to facilitate Cyprus’ reunification and to support the socio-economic development of the community.
The 2024 Annual Action Programme offers further support to implement the Aid Programme’s key flagship projects, such as the Halloumi/Hellim Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) package and boosting Green Line trade.
The Halloumi/Hellim PDO is the first EU protected designation that is not only open to producers from the government-controlled areas of Cyprus, but also to Turkish Cypriot producers. Funding from the 2024 programme will support Turkish Cypriot producers comply with EU food safety and animal health standards, a requirement for the placement of their products on the EU market.
A grant support scheme for stakeholders in the dairy and agricultural food sectors will also help producers to meet the required standards to sell PDO-compliant Halloumi/Hellim across the Green Line and reap the benefits of this trade.
In line with the EU’s Green Deal objectives, the programme earmarks funding for the construction of a bicommunal solar power plant, should the two communities agree to it. The project would increase bicommunal cooperation in the areas of energy efficiency and green electricity production.
Grants and technical assistance will be directed into private sector development, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs to grow and consolidate their businesses.
Technical assistance will be provided in the area of education, with tailored support and laboratory equipment available for teachers and workers to enhance their skills around lifelong learning and special needs education.
Supporting a bicommunal scholarship programme remains a priority for the 2024 wave of funding. Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students will be offered support to jointly attend the international baccalaureate programme at one of the peace-oriented United World Colleges (UWC).
To build confidence between the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities, the programme also includes continued support for the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus, as well as the restoration of Cyprus’ cultural heritage. This support aims to promote reconciliation and respect for Cyprus’ diverse culture and religions.
Background
The Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community aims to facilitate the reunification of Cyprus by encouraging the socio-economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community. It supports confidence-building measures, civil society, and several projects to bring the Turkish Cypriot community closer to the EU. It also mobilises EU experts to help bring standards and procedures in line with EU legislation.
Between 2006 and 2024, €728 million has been allocated for projects under the Aid Programme. The Programme is managed by the Commission’s Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM).
For more information
Quote(s)
The Commission continues to facilitate the reunification of Cyprus with annual dedicated support packages for the Turkish Cypriot community, aiming to boost socio-economic development, build confidence between the two Cypriot communities, and facilitate the important work of civil society. Focusing on flagship initiatives such as the Halloumi/Hellim PDO package and trade across the Green Line, this year’s Action Programme seeks to make a tangible contribution to paving the way towards the resumption of reunification talks within the UN framework.
Elisa Ferreira, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms
Source – EU Commission