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Government Prioritizes Containment and Support for Livestock Farmers Amid Foot-and-Mouth Crisis

Published March 16, 2026, 08:11
Government Prioritizes Containment and Support for Livestock Farmers Amid Foot-and-Mouth Crisis

Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that the government is treating the foot-and-mouth disease crisis as a priority, aiming to contain the spread and support the primary sector. He emphasized the need to implement European protocols and acknowledged the specificities of Cyprus due to the occupied territories, which create additional challenges. Mr. Letymbiotis characterized the disease management as a scientific issue that has turned into a political debate, stressing the need to make decisions based on the recommendations of experts. He pointed out that the government is coordinating with the European Union to replenish livestock and provide support to affected farmers. The government is considering a support package for farmers, similar to the one implemented after last summer's wildfires. Mr. Letymbiotis called on all stakeholders to take responsibility for addressing the crisis.