Coronavirus outbreak in Cyprus

2.4.2020

Priority question for written answer P-002047/2020
to the Commission
Rule 138
Niyazi Kizilyürek (GUE/NGL)

The coronavirus outbreak is affecting the whole planet and all Member States. The Republic of Cyprus, which has suffered deep crises in its banking sector in recent years, and the Turkish Cypriot community in particular are facing particularly difficult challenges when it comes to coping with the outbreak.

The number of confirmed cases and deaths is increasing day by day in both communities of Cyprus.

The Commission has quickly allocated EUR 5 million of its aid programme to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it appears that much more is needed.

The Turkish Cypriot economy is service-based, and mostly relies on tourism and higher education. All flights to the island have stopped, university students are experiencing financial difficulty and small businesses are at risk of bankruptcy. This will leave around 30⁰000 people in immediate financial difficulty.

Although the northern part of Cyprus is EU territory and Turkish Cypriots are EU citizens, this region lacks the economic and financial tools to navigate the crisis. This is because it is heavily dependent on and controlled by Turkey.

What additional measures does the Commission intend to take to support the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot community, in particular in its fight against coronavirus?