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Erhurman Proposes Bi-communal Technical Committee for Halloumi

Published March 14, 2026, 17:16
Erhurman Proposes Bi-communal Technical Committee for Halloumi

Turkish Cypriot politician Tufan Erhurman proposed the establishment of a bi-communal technical committee on the issue of halloumi, emphasizing the Turkish Cypriot side's readiness to cooperate in the fields of agriculture and livestock. This proposal comes at a time of increased concern regarding foot-and-mouth disease and the difficulties in combating it, as well as delays in the commencement of checks for the registration of Cypriot cheese. Mr. Erhurman stated that the Turkish Cypriot community has carried out timely and rapid vaccinations to combat foot-and-mouth disease and has offered vaccines to the free areas when needed. At the same time, he expresses his disappointment over the delay in completing the procedures for the start of the checks, noting that there was a commitment to resolve the issue by January 31, which however was not kept. Mr. Erhurman emphasizes that the Turkish Cypriot side wishes to be checked and calls on the Republic of Cyprus to sign the necessary agreements to start the checks. He recalls that the proposal to establish the bi-communal technical committee came from the Turkish Cypriot side, with the aim of jointly addressing the challenges in the agricultural sector. Finally, Mr. Erhurman accuses the Greek Cypriot side of using the Turkish Cypriot side as an excuse to avoid criticism, and calls on it to focus on its responsibilities and work for the good of the whole island. This statement highlights the need for constructive dialogue and cooperation between the two communities to solve common problems.