A serious outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease is affecting Cyprus. This disease spreads very quickly. The European Union is now helping to solve the problem. The government is having important meetings.
The disease started in December in the north. Now, strict EU rules must be used. These rules include killing all animals on farms with the disease. This is happening even if animals look healthy.
Oliver Varhelyi, an EU Commissioner, visited Cyprus on Friday. He met with President Nikos Christodoulides. They talked about how to stop the disease from spreading. The European Commission wants everyone to follow the rules. This is important for the country's animals.
Leaders are very worried about the economy. The disease could hurt the farming industry a lot. They understand the EU rules are needed. However, they are also worried about killing all the animals. This rule is to stop the disease from spreading more.
Farmers are very upset. They might lose all their animals. This means they will lose their income. People in the countryside are anxious. Politicians are asking for quick action. They want clear information about the crisis. Money is being discussed to help farmers. This money is for new animals and lost money.
Experts say the farming industry could disappear in five years. Annita Demetriou said it is important to know the facts. The EU's plan to stop the disease is strict. If the rules are followed, the crisis could end by summer. New animals might be bought by autumn. This could help the industry recover. The future of farming in Cyprus is uncertain.