The European Commission approved the 2024 Annual Action Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, allocating €39.5 million in new EU funding. The goal is to support Cyprus’ reunification and the community’s socio-economic development. The programme will assist Turkish Cypriot producers in meeting EU food safety and animal health standards to sell PDO-compliant Halloumi/Hellim across the Green Line, enabling them to benefit from this 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.
The Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community supports confidence-building measures, civil society, and various projects to bring the community closer to the EU. Additionally, it mobilises EU experts to help align standards and procedures with EU legislation. From 2006 to 2024, €728 million has been allocated for projects under the Aid Programme, managed by the Commission’s Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM).
“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,” said Elisa Ferreira, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms. “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,” the Commissioner added.
The programme aims to fund a bicommunal solar power plant to promote energy efficiency and green electricity production cooperation in line with the EU’s Green Deal objectives. It will also support the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), provide technical assistance in education, and prioritise a scholarship programme for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students. Additionally, it includes ongoing support for the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus and the restoration of Cyprus’ cultural heritage to promote reconciliation and respect for the island’s diverse culture and religions.
