EU Launches Support Center for Cross-Green Line Cooperation in Cyprus

The European Union has announced the establishment of an information and support center for Cypriot businesses seeking to collaborate across the Green Line, marking a significant step towards fostering economic cooperation on the island. In collaboration with the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce (Ktto), the EU-funded initiative aims to provide a comprehensive resource for interested parties to access information, technical assistance, and personalized support for commercial transactions across the Green Line.

The EU’s forthcoming one-stop shop, set to launch in October 2023, will serve as a specialized office dedicated to facilitating cross-Green Line trade. Through this center, businesses will receive consulting services and personalized support to navigate the necessary regulations for each product eligible for trade across the Green Line. The center will facilitate connections between sellers and buyers, ensuring compliance with European regulations and standards and smoothing the path for legal trade. Additionally, an online platform in Greek and Turkish will be developed to serve as a central hub for information, references, and documentation, further supporting businesses on both sides of the divide in expanding their commercial transactions.

The EU’s initiative is driven by the objective of promoting the reunification of Cyprus by fostering economic growth and cooperation. Kjartan Bjornsson, the head of the Cyprus Settlement Support office of the EU, emphasized that by assisting Turkish Cypriot businesses in complying with EU standards and regulations, the initiative aims to create a level playing field and contribute to the reunification of the island. This collaborative effort between the EU and the chambers of commerce highlights the commitment to economic development and demonstrates the potential for improving dialogue, relations, and cooperation between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities.