Tel aviv: Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Dr. Maria Panayiotou, recently concluded a two-day working visit to Israel and Palestine, aiming to bolster bilateral cooperation in agriculture, water management, and the circular economy.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Dr. Panayiotou’s itinerary included meetings with Israeli counterparts and relevant authorities in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, focusing on practical solutions to mutual challenges. Discussions revolved around agricultural production, food safety, research, and technological innovation, with particular attention to the impacts of climate change on the primary sector. Additionally, the existing 1994 Cooperation Agreement was considered for revision to address current challenges.
On the environmental front, Dr. Panayiotou met with Israel’s Minister of Environmental Protection, Idit Silman, to exchange views on waste management policies and circular economy principles. The discussions aimed to foster cooperation and share best practices in environmental governance, particularly regarding green infrastructure and climate action initiatives.
The visit also included technical engagements with Israeli scientific bodies and visits to the Heria Recycling Unit and Ariel Sharon Park. These visits showcased successful models of ecological and environmental regeneration, emphasizing sustainable resource utilization. Furthermore, the Israel Water Authority briefed Dr. Panayiotou on strategies for water management, desalination, and digital monitoring, which Cyprus is keen to study further.
In Ramallah, Dr. Panayiotou met with Palestinian Agriculture Minister Rezq Salimia, culminating in the signing of a Bilateral Action Plan for 2025-2027. Discussions highlighted the challenges facing the Palestinian agricultural sector and explored opportunities for deepening cooperation in sustainable agricultural development, water resource utilization, and agricultural research.
The Bilateral Action Plan aims to enhance primary production, facilitate the exchange of know-how, and develop research and educational activities. It also focuses on water management, laboratory support, and empowering producers with modern tools and techniques, reinforcing the agricultural economy’s strategic role in Palestine’s social and economic stability.