€3.5M Lifeline For Cyprus Farmers: EU Steps In After Extreme Weather

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

Cypriot farmers hit hard by drought and soaring temperatures are set to receive a €3.5 million emergency relief package from the EU. The funding, approved by member states, aims to cushion the blow of devastating weather conditions that have crippled crop production since early 2024.

A Sector In Crisis

The first half of 2024 brought relentless drought and record-high temperatures, wreaking havoc on Cyprus’ agricultural output. Key crops—including cereals, olives, and vegetables—took a serious hit, leaving farmers struggling with income losses.

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How The Funds Will Work

The aid, which must be distributed by September 30, can be tripled with national co-financing, allowing Cyprus to push the total support package up to €10.5 million if it chooses. But there’s a deadline: the government must submit a distribution plan to the European Commission by May 31.

“We Must Be Better Prepared”

Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen acknowledged the crisis, stating, “We can’t change what has already happened, but we can learn from this and be better prepared.”

Now, the ball is in Cyprus’ court. Once the EU officially adopts the decision and publishes it in the gazette, the funds will be transferred without delay—offering a crucial, if temporary, relief for farmers fighting to recover.

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Lithuania And Cyprus Forge Enhanced Partnership In Tourism And Defence

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

May 22, 2026

Expanding Cooperation Beyond The Surface

Kristupas Vaitiekūnas highlighted opportunities for closer cooperation between Lithuania and Cyprus during his visit to Nicosia for the informal ECOFIN meeting. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, the Lithuanian finance minister said both countries share common challenges and could expand collaboration in areas including tourism, defence and financial services.

Addressing Shared Challenges

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said Lithuania and Cyprus face similar security and economic pressures despite their geographic differences. Particular attention was given to emerging security threats, including drone-related risks, alongside the importance of maintaining resilient financial sectors. According to Vaitiekūnas, stronger coordination in those areas could deliver long-term economic and strategic benefits for both countries.

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Focus On Fiscal Stability And Energy Security

Discussions at the ECOFIN meeting are expected to focus on Europe’s economic outlook, energy market volatility and fiscal stability. Kristupas Vaitiekūnas warned that instability in the Middle East could continue affecting oil markets and broader economic performance across Europe. Housing affordability was also identified as a growing challenge, with rising property prices in cities such as Vilnius reflecting broader pressures seen across European markets.

Coordinated Energy Strategy And Future Investments

The Lithuanian finance minister also called for a more coordinated European approach to energy and economic resilience. Vaitiekūnas suggested that targeted and temporary policy measures could prove more effective than large-scale structural reforms in addressing short-term pressures. Lithuania continues to increase investment in renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure as part of efforts to strengthen energy independence and begin producing surplus electricity by 2028.

Support For Ukraine And Enhancing Defence Funding

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas reaffirmed Lithuania’s support for Ukraine, describing the war as a broader struggle tied to European security and democratic values. He also backed accelerating Ukraine’s accession process to the European Union, arguing that deeper integration would strengthen regional stability and economic prosperity. Vaitiekūnas welcomed the EU’s SAFE programme, which is expected to support Lithuania’s defence capabilities while contributing additional assistance to Ukraine.

Looking Ahead To A More Unified Europe

Addressing the European Union’s future budget framework, Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said increased funding for security and defence represented a positive development. At the same time, he warned that reductions in cohesion funding and agricultural support could negatively affect purchasing power and long-term European unity. Lithuania is expected to place continued emphasis on Ukraine and regional security ahead of its upcoming EU Council Presidency in early 2027.

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