Palaichori: Based on the existing plan and provided that cooperation with livestock farmers continues, 'very soon we will be able to say that we have successfully tackled foot-and-mouth disease', President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday, stressing at the same time that the Government 'will stand by livestock farmers until the very end'.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides, speaking to journalists after a memorial service in Palaichori, addressed questions regarding potential meetings with protesting livestock farmers. He confirmed his ongoing communication with all organized livestock farmers' groups and related agricultural organizations.
The President highlighted a collective willingness among stakeholders to enhance cooperation in tackling the disease. He expressed optimism that the spirit of collaboration would persist, stating confidence that continued cooperation would soon lead to the successful management of foot-and-mouth disease.
Discussing the Government's support for livestock farmers, President Christodoulides emphasized the proactive stance taken 'from the very first moment'. He noted that recent government decisions are significantly more robust compared to similar European measures, particularly concerning financial support, which he noted should not be termed as compensation.
President Christodoulides attributed the ability to provide this support to responsible fiscal policies, underscoring the Government's commitment to the primary sector. Highlighting Cyprus's unique geographic challenges as an island nation, he stressed the critical importance of bolstering the primary sector and assured livestock farmers of continued support until the sector is revitalized.