Northern Cyprus sends 10,000 foot-and-mouth vaccine doses to Greek Cypriots

2026-02-25 - 20:32

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has delivered 10,000 doses of foot-and-mouth disease vaccine to the Greek Cypriot Administration following an outbreak in the region, demonstrating cross-community cooperation on animal health despite political divisions. According to Turkish Agency Cyprus, the TRNC Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources announced the delivery is part of a planned shipment of 20,000 doses to be sent by the Veterinary Department. Vaccine Shipment Details The first batch of 10,000 doses was delivered Friday, with the remaining 10,000 doses expected to follow in the coming days. In a statement, the ministry said the delivery forms part of efforts to combat the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, adding that technical cooperation is continuing to protect animal health and prevent further transmission. The rapid response reflects shared interests in safeguarding livestock across the divided island. Outbreak Response Foot-and-mouth disease was detected at several dairies and livestock farms in Larnaca, prompting authorities in the Greek Cypriot Administration to establish a coordination center and begin animal culling. The rapid spread of the disease led to the imposition of a 21-day quarantine across the territory. The outbreak posed a significant threat to the island's agricultural sector, making cross-border cooperation essential for containment. Humanitarian Dimension The vaccine delivery represents a practical example of technical cooperation between the two Cypriot communities, transcending political differences to address a common threat. Such collaboration on issues of mutual concern—including animal health, environmental protection, and disease control—has occasionally provided channels for communication even during periods of political deadlock. The shipment underscores the interdependence of the island's communities and the practical benefits of cooperation in addressing shared challenges.