EU allocates €39.5m to support Turkish Cypriot community in ’24

The European Union (EU) approved on Tuesday the 2024 Annual Action Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, allocating €39.5 million ($43.6 million) to advance Cyprus’ reunification and bolster socio-economic development.

The new funding will support key initiatives such as the Halloumi/Hellim PDO package, which includes backing for Turkish Cypriot producers to meet EU food safety standards, enabling their products to enter the EU market.

The programme also includes a grant support scheme for the dairy and agricultural sectors, aimed at ensuring compliance with PDO standards for trade across the Green Line.

Additionally, it outlines potential funding for a bicommunal solar power plant, contingent on community agreement, in line with the EU’s Green Deal objectives.

Other areas of focus include private sector development, with grants for SMEs and entrepreneurs, technical assistance in education, and a bicommunal scholarship programme for students.

Support will continue for the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus and the restoration of cultural heritage to foster reconciliation.

Since 2006, the EU has allocated €728 million to the Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, managed by the Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM).