Dialogos

Bicommunal Committee Co-Chair: Contacts with Turkish Cypriots Since Mid-December Regarding Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Published March 18, 2026, 08:02
Bicommunal Committee Co-Chair: Contacts with Turkish Cypriots Since Mid-December Regarding Foot-and-Mouth Disease

The co-chair of the Bicommunal Technical Committee on Health, Leonidas Phylactou, announced that contacts with Turkish Cypriots regarding foot-and-mouth disease began in mid-December. The committee has met at least 4-5 times since the first case was identified in the occupied territories, with Turkish Cypriots reporting that the disease has been contained in Lapathos and has not spread. In the occupied territories, only sick animals were culled, and vaccinations continue, following a specific strategy that does not allow external intervention. Mr. Phylactou noted that implementing European standards would require significant financial resources for culling, burial, and livestock replenishment. Turkish Cypriots informed them that they continue exports to Turkey and Arab countries. Veterinarians participate in the meetings in their personal capacity. The direct relationship between the occupied territories and Turkey was characterized as an 'open wound,' highlighting the dependence and lack of independence in addressing the crisis. The committee closely monitors the situation and maintains open communication with the other side. The situation with foot-and-mouth disease in the occupied territories remains under control, according to information verified through the bicommunal committee. Cooperation between the two communities is crucial to prevent further spread of the disease and protect the health of animals and humans.