Nicosia: A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Tuesday between the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus and the Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF), strengthening their longstanding cooperation with the aim of improving care for people living with thalassaemia and other haemoglobin disorders, as well as promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides stated that the MoU establishes a more stable and structured framework for cooperation, broadens the areas of joint action, and provides specific direction for the next steps. Addressing the signing ceremony, Charalambides acknowledged the agreement as a continuation of a common path spanning many years, grounded in mutual trust and a shared commitment to better care for people with thalassaemia and other haemoglobin disorders.
Charalambides highlighted the international activities of TIF, noting that the Federation, headquartered in Nicosia, is internationally recognised as a representative body for people with thalassaemia and other haemoglobin disorders. Through its cooperation with the World Health Organization, the European Union, and international scientific bodies, TIF has contributed to safeguarding patients' rights, promoting prevention and research, and ensuring equal access to safe and quality treatments in over 70 countries.
For Cyprus, the presence and work of TIF hold particular importance. Charalambides remarked that Cyprus has gained significant experience in managing thalassaemia and haemoglobin disorders through a long and demanding process, with progress in prevention, early diagnosis, and comprehensive care being recognised internationally. He stressed the importance of sharing this experience with countries in need, taking into account their specific circumstances and needs.
Charalambides also emphasised that the quality of care and access to appropriate treatments should not depend on the country of birth or residence. The aim is for knowledge and scientific progress to have a meaningful impact on the lives of people with thalassaemia, improving the quality of care they receive, the choices available to them, and their ability to live with dignity.
On behalf of the President of the Republic and the Cyprus Government, Charalambides extended warm congratulations to TIF's leadership, management, and all its staff for their longstanding contribution and work in Cyprus and internationally. He concluded by affirming the substantive content of the agreement and the common direction of the efforts of the two sides.
