Nicosia: Economic European Area (EEA) and Norway grants have announced a new funding period aimed at supporting various initiatives in Cyprus with a total budget of £14.7 million. The announcement was made by the Minister of Finance, Makis Keravnos, during a signing ceremony for two Memoranda of Understanding related to the EEA and Norway Financial Mechanisms 2021-2028. The initiatives will focus on promoting green transition, digitalization, public health, and social cohesion in Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the signing ceremony took place at Eleftherias Square in Nicosia and was attended by key figures including Norway’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Astrid Bergmal, the Ambassador of the Republic of Iceland to Cyprus, Bryndis Kjartansdottir, and Nicosia’s Mayor, Charalambos Prountzos. In his remarks, Minister Keravnos expressed gratitude to the donor states-namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway-and the Financial Mechanism Office. He highlighted the grants as a testament to European solidarity and shared responsibility, which have strengthened bonds between Cyprus and the donor states.
Keravnos emphasized that the grants have previously made significant contributions to Cyprus, addressing issues such as environmental protection, renewable energy, and social inclusion. The new funding period aims to build on these successes, with a focus on projects related to water scarcity, digitalization, public health, and social inclusion.
Penelope Papavasiliou, Head of the National Focal Point, explained that from the total allocation, £7.5 million will come from EEA Grants and £7.2 million from Norway Grants, with a national contribution of 15%. She outlined key projects, including a £5.3 million initiative on sustainable water management and a £2.5 million project for a community support center for persons with disabilities.
Additional projects include the digitalization of Cyprus’ Museum and the State Collection of Cypriot Art, supported with £1.5 million, and a £1 million grant for the Women’s House to combat gender-based violence. A local development project in Nicosia will also receive £1 million.
Norway’s Deputy Minister Astrid Bergmal referred to the grants as “bridges” connecting countries and fostering resilience and democratic values. Iceland’s Ambassador Bryndis Kjartansdottir echoed these sentiments, noting the focus on green transition, democracy, human rights, and social inclusion.
Nicosia’s Mayor, Charalambos Prountzos, acknowledged the grants’ significant impact on social cohesion and development, highlighting the Solidarity Network ‘Nicosia in Action’ as a key initiative that unites over 80 partners from various sectors.