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NICOLA Calls for Council of Leaders to Address Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Middle East Situation

Published March 16, 2026, 12:12
NICOLA Calls for Council of Leaders to Address Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Middle East Situation

The president of DIKO, Nicolas Papadopoulos, is calling on the President of the Republic to convene a Council of Leaders to discuss two critical issues: the spread of foot-and-mouth disease and the implications of the war in the Middle East. Mr. Papadopoulos emphasizes the need for full implementation of European protocols to address the disease, including the immediate payment of compensation to farmers for damages incurred, covering the costs of animal death, transportation, health measures, livestock replacement, and loss of income. Regarding the impact of the war in the Middle East, he expresses concern about the potential negative consequences for the Cypriot economy, particularly in tourism and the hotel industry. He proposes the immediate launch of an information and promotion campaign for Cyprus abroad to counter the negative image being formed in certain European markets. Furthermore, he suggests the development of a support plan for the tourism and hotel sector in the event of a prolonged crisis, with measures such as maintaining air connectivity through incentives for airlines, supporting hotel units that may suspend operations, and managing the workforce through programs similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nicolas Papadopoulos seeks a coordinated approach to address these challenges, considering a discussion at the level of political leadership necessary to find effective solutions.