Cyprus marked the International Day of Forests with officials highlighting a sharp increase in state spending on forestry and new investments aimed at strengthening fire prevention and rural development.
Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou said public expenditure on forestry is set to rise from €48.2 million in 2021 to €81.7 million in 2025 — an increase of nearly 70%.
She said the government has also expanded the Forest Department’s workforce and equipment, including hiring more than 100 new firefighters and adding dozens of vehicles and ground units.
Panayiotou said forests play a central role in tourism, water management and rural economies, and described prevention as “a high‑return investment,” citing controlled burns, managed grazing and the reopening of the Cyprus Forestry College for training.
Forest Department director Savvas Iezekiel said Cyprus’ forests remain a key economic and social resource, particularly in mountain communities with limited development options.
He noted that forest‑based activity supports local jobs and helps maintain population levels in rural areas.
The event, held at the Cape Greco National Forest Park, also included a presentation on the economic value of forests and the launch of the department’s annual photography competition.