Brussels: The European Commission announced a new agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to continue the European Union's financed Support Facility for the Technical Committees in Cyprus through 2026. This initiative aims to facilitate the ongoing reunification efforts on the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the European Union Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community plays a crucial role in assisting the reunification process. As part of these efforts, the European Commission has secured the continuation of the Support Facility, which was initially established in 2019. This facility supports the Technical Committees, created by the leaders of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities under the United Nations' guidance, to develop solutions for issues affecting both communities.
The programme has entered its second phase and serves as a significant EU funding instrument to foster interaction and trust between the communities. The Support Facility funds a variety of initiatives, including feasibility studies, capacity-building activities, and the development of digital tools in areas such as health, gender equality, environment, education, and culture. These initiatives aim to benefit people across Cyprus by addressing common concerns.
The European Commission has allocated an additional 500,000 EUR for the Support Facility's activities in 2026. In collaboration with stakeholders, including the UN presence in Cyprus, the facility will continue to enhance the capacity of the Technical Committees while promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the communities.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following the invasion and occupation of 37% of its territory by Turkish forces.