Cyprus is actively seeking Israeli expertise on water management and food security as Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou embarks on a two-day working visit to Israel. This trip aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations in agriculture, circular economy, and environmental protection.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
During her visit, Panayiotou engaged in discussions with Israeli officials in both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, focusing on shared agricultural challenges exacerbated by climate change. She met with Avi Dichter, the Israeli Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, to explore collaborative opportunities in agricultural production and technological innovations.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
The ministers considered revising the existing 1994 Cooperation Agreement, aiming to modernise it to better address current challenges. Panayiotou commented on the importance of adapting to contemporary needs: “The two countries, Cyprus and Israel, share common challenges but also common opportunities to find solutions to the common problems we face.”
Her discussions extended to Idit Silman, the Israeli Environment Protection Minister, centring on waste management policies and regional climate initiatives. Panayiotou highlighted their commitment to implementing joint actions regarding food security, water management, and the management of protected areas.
In her statements, she emphasised the urgency of finding effective solutions: “We aim to immediately utilise the technology and good practices that exist here, so we can improve the quality of life for our citizens and future generations.” This reflects a proactive approach to tackling pressing environmental issues.
The visit included technical presentations and site visits, such as a tour of the Heria Recycling Facility, showcasing a model for ecological regeneration. There, officials demonstrated how a former landfill area has been transformed into a sustainable resource hub.
Panayiotou also received insights from Israel’s National Water Authority on innovative strategies for water resource management, including desalination and digital monitoring tools. This knowledge is particularly relevant for Cyprus, which is grappling with its own water challenges.
Both parties agreed that cooperation would continue at a technical level, allowing for further exploration of effective practices to manage Cyprus’s water resources. The Cypriot delegation, which included key officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Cyprus Ambassador to Israel, is also scheduled to visit Palestine as part of this regional collaboration effort.
