Cyprus Presidency to Review FMD Response, Meet Livestock Farmers

The Cyprus government will hold two meetings at the Presidential Palace on June 2 to review the latest foot-and-mouth disease situation and address concerns raised by livestock farmers and agricultural organisations.

Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the first meeting will see the President receive an update from the epidemiological team and Veterinary Services on recent developments linked to the outbreak. Officials will also assess measures already introduced, including support provided to affected livestock farmers.

The meeting will include senior government officials, among them the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment and the ministry’s Director General.

A second meeting will bring together livestock farmers’ and agricultural groups to discuss challenges facing the sector. Concerns raised by the newly established “Voice of Livestock Farmers” group will also be considered, with discussions expected to follow existing regulations and protocols.

Authorities say the outbreak has affected thousands of cattle and sheep in livestock farms across Larnaca, Nicosia and Limassol districts since the disease was first reported in February. A nationwide vaccination campaign is underway to contain the virus, while EU regulations require the culling of animals in infected areas.

Officials say the outbreak has impacted livestock production and related agricultural activities. However, Halloumi cheese exports have not been affected. Experts continue to stress that foot-and-mouth disease does not pose a risk to human health.