Cyprus will establish strategic grain reserves sufficient to cover 45 days of national demand, President Nicos Christodoulides said on Friday, citing growing concerns over potential supply chain disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the Black Sea.
Speaking at an event marking the 10th anniversary of the Mills Hadjigiorkis Museum in Frenaros, Christodoulides said the reserves would supplement grain stocks already held by private businesses for commercial purposes.
"The geopolitical developments in the Middle East and the Black Sea and their potential impact on supply chains require increased preparedness and preventive planning," he said.
Under the plan, the strategic reserves will be maintained by domestic grain trading and milling companies through open tender procedures.
"This is a preventive and preparedness measure, which we want to strengthen the country's ability to respond to possible disruptions in the supply of essential goods," he said.
Christodoulides also said the government would decide by September 2027 on projects worth €3.5 billion to be implemented during the 2028-2034 programming period.
Of that amount, €2.5 billion is expected to come from European funding, with a further €1 billion from national resources.
The president also highlighted projects and policies targeting Famagusta district, including a strategic development plan comprising more than 30 projects with a combined value of €122 million.
Source: CNA
