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Cyprus Promotes Resilient Pharmaceutical Policy During EU Presidency

Published March 15, 2026, 12:11
Cyprus Promotes Resilient Pharmaceutical Policy During EU Presidency

As the Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), Cyprus is promoting a resilient European pharmaceutical policy with an emphasis on innovation and equitable access, stated the Minister of Health, Neofytos Charalambides. He highlighted that Cyprus's active participation in European Reference Networks for rare diseases strengthens cross-border collaboration and facilitates patient access to specialized knowledge and care. The Ministry of Health invests in the care of patients with rare diseases, implementing the National Strategy since 2012, which is currently under review to reflect modern scientific and European developments. The implementation of the General Health System (GHS) and access to orphan drugs approved by the European Medicines Agency, through the coordinated efforts of the Health Insurance Organization (HIO), the Pharmaceutical Services and the Ministry of Health, substantially enhance the provision of care. Finally, the Minister emphasized the crucial role of patient associations, such as 'Unique Smiles', in protecting rights and supporting individuals living with rare diseases.