With the completion of the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy 2014-2020 we will ensure the granting of more than 850 million euro from European and national funds, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment Petros Xenophontos said Friday, addressing an event for the promotion of the Mediterranean Diet organised by the Cypriot Farmers' Union in collaboration with the National Agricultural Network.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment, he said, is working tirelessly to strengthen the competitiveness of the primary sector, adding that the goal is to revive the countryside, ensure a fair income for the producers, ensure food quality and support the renewal of the agricultural sector.
He pointed out that the agricultural sector in Cyprus was faced with serious difficulties, adding that the economic crisis of the previous decade was followed by the coronavirus pandemic, affecting significantly the economy and therefore the agricultural sector.
Moreover, he pointed out that the conflict in Ukraine has created an energy and food problem in the world, which affected Cyprus as well, with energy prices and agricultural supplies rising rapidly.
"Taking into account the above, three measure packages were provided, with a total expenditure of 41.5 million euro as financial aid to the sectors that were most affected and also for addressing inflationary trends", Xenophontos said.
He added that for the modernisation of the agricultural sector, all available European financial tools are being used.
"With the completion of the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy 2014-2020 until this year, when its transitional period is completed, we will ensure the granting of more than 850 million euros from European and national funds", the Minister noted.
Source: Cyprus News Agency