The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment is moving forward with supporting collaborations to prepare technical dossiers aimed at registering high-quality Cypriot products as Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) or Protected Geographical Indications (PGI), announced the Minister responsible, Christos Senekis.
Speaking on Sunday at the first Festival of Centenarian Olive Trees in Silikou, Mr. Senekis said that the relevant initiative is expected to be announced shortly, noting that the goal is to strengthen “the recognition, the unique identity, and the added value of our local products.”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The Minister referred to the importance of the olive tree for Silikou, noting that the community’s ancient olive trees are “living monuments to its nature and history” and link the local agricultural tradition to the region’s history and culture.
According to the data he presented, the olive tree is the most extensive tree crop in Cyprus, with cultivated areas totaling approximately 110,000 decares, while the annual value of production reaches €26 million.
“Beyond the numbers, however, olive cultivation is a source of income for many families and a significant part of our country’s agricultural activity,” he said, adding that supporting the people who continue to farm, invest, and produce is “a key priority of our agricultural policy.”
Support through the CAP
Mr. Senekis also referred to the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy 2023–2027, through which €454 million is allocated for rural areas and the agricultural sector.
As he noted, there is particular interest in the investment measures that support the modernization and improvement of farms, while the renewal of the agricultural workforce is also being supported through the First Settlement of Young Farmers program.
Referring specifically to Silikou, he said that the community participates in the Local Action Group of the Limassol District Development Agency, whose strategy has been allocated €2.9 million through the LEADER program for initiatives that highlight local history, culture, and tradition and support rural development.
Measures to Address the Drought
The Minister also reiterated the need to address the prolonged drought, noting that farmers are the first to experience its consequences.
He noted that, following a recent decision by the Council of Ministers, an additional 3.5 million cubic meters of water were allocated for irrigation needs, while reiterating plans for four new permanent desalination plants.
At the same time, he noted that efforts are underway to further utilize reclaimed water, reduce losses, and upgrade the transmission and storage infrastructure. These actions, he said, are part of a broader plan involving projects totaling over €200 million to strengthen water security.
Finally, Mr. Senekis noted that the future of rural areas depends not only on support for agricultural production but also on creating conditions that allow communities to remain vibrant and active, and that linking agriculture and local products with culture and tourism can contribute to this goal.
Source: CNA
