The European Commission adopted on Tuesday the 2024 Annual Action Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, allocating €39.5 million in new EU funding "to facilitate Cyprus' reunification and to support the socio-economic development of the community", a press release by the EC said.

The 2024 Annual Action Programme offers further support to implement the Aid Programme's key flagship projects, such as the Halloumi/Hellim Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) package and boosting Green Line trade.

''The Halloumi/Hellim PDO is the first EU protected designation that is not only open to producers from the government-controlled areas of Cyprus, but also to Turkish Cypriot producers'', the press release read.

The EC said that funding from the 2024 programme will support Turkish Cypriot producers comply with EU food safety and animal health standards, a requirement for the placement of their products on the EU market.

''A grant support scheme for stakeholders in the dairy and agricultural food sectors will also help producers to meet the required standards to sell PDO-compliant Halloumi/Hellim across the Green Line and reap the benefits of this trade'', it noted.

In line with the EU's Green Deal objectives, the programme earmarks funding for the construction of a bicommunal solar power plant, should the two communities agree to it. The project would increase bicommunal cooperation in the areas of energy efficiency and green electricity production.

Grants and technical assistance will be directed into private sector development, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs to grow and consolidate their businesses, the press release noted.

Technical assistance will be provided in the area of education, with tailored support and laboratory equipment available for teachers and workers to enhance their skills around lifelong learning and special needs education.

Furthermore, the EC said that supporting a bicommunal scholarship programme remains a priority for the 2024 wave of funding adding that Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students will be offered support to jointly attend the international baccalaureate programme, at one of the peace-oriented United World Colleges (UWC).

''To build confidence between the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities, the programme also includes continued support for the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus, as well as the restoration of Cyprus' cultural heritage. This support aims to promote reconciliation and respect for Cyprus' diverse culture and religions'', the Commission said.

Between 2006 and 2024, €728 million has been allocated for projects under the Aid Programme. The Programme is managed by the Commission's Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM).