Cyprus is expecting clarity today on how to manage the foot-and-mouth disease crisis, as Olivér Várhelyi arrives on the island for talks with the government.
The visit comes as Cyprus seeks to negotiate greater flexibility within the European Union’s strict rules on mass culling, following strong reactions from livestock farmers.
Tensions surfaced during a press conference organised by the Ministry of Agriculture of Cyprus, where scientists briefed the public on the disease. The discussion became heated as farmers questioned the authorities about the financial impact of the different policy options.
Farmers opposed to the EU-mandated culling policy asked officials to estimate the costs of mass vaccination without slaughtering animals, compared with the long-term cost of continuing the current culling strategy. Veterinary Services said they were not yet able to provide complete figures, which fuelled frustration among farmers.
Warnings Over Halloumi Exports
During the discussion, Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou intervened, stressing that Cyprus does not want to confront the European Commission.
“This is not simply a matter of financial cost. The consequences could be much greater,” she said.
Her comments followed warnings by Dimitris Epameinondas that failure to comply with EU legislation on culling infected herds could result in Cyprus being banned from exporting halloumi.
Officials from the Veterinary Services also warned that non-compliance could lead to Cyprus being excluded from EU exports and the single market.
Panayiotou acknowledged that the European regulation is strict but said Cyprus intends to present its specific national circumstances and scientific data to request limited flexibility.
Flexibility Within EU Protocols
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said President Nikos Christodoulides has committed to exploring all available options within EU rules.
According to Letymbiotis, the President will seek clarification from the European Commission regarding possible flexibility within existing EU procedures and protocols, while ensuring Cyprus remains compliant with European regulations.
The outcome of today’s discussions with Commissioner Várhelyi is expected to determine how Cyprus proceeds with managing the outbreak and protecting its livestock sector.