Cyprus Green Line crossings reached historic high in 2024

In 2024, the number of authorized crossings between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities across Cyprus' Green Line reached an unprecedented 7.18 million. Simultaneously, the European Union allocated €39.4 million to increase living standards in the Turkish Cypriot community, marking the highest funding since this programme's inception in 2006.

These accomplishments are detailed in two annual reports released today by the European Commission. They concern the implementation of the Green Line Regulation of 2004, which oversees the movement of people, goods, and services in Cyprus, and the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community. Both initiatives underscore the EU's commitment to the reunification of Cyprus, including by improving socio-economic conditions and promoting confidence-building measures for the benefit of all Cypriots.

The rise in authorised crossings coincides with a significant decline in irregular crossings to 3,319, reflecting increased efficiency in managing the Green Line. However, trade across the Green Line experienced a 5% downturn in 2024, totalling €15.2 million. This decrease is primarily due to constraints within the construction sector and increased prices in the Turkish Cypriot community. Despite these challenges, movements regulated by the 2004 Green Line Regulation remain vital to Cyprus' EU-driven peacebuilding efforts.

Moreover, EU funding of €39.4 million in 2024 has supported crucial socio-economic development within the Turkish Cypriot community and reconciliation efforts. Noteworthy achievements include the awarding of 126 scholarships to Turkish Cypriot students to study at EU universities, the enrolment of 18 students from both communities at United World Colleges, and an investment of €2.6 million dedicated to preserving Cyprus' shared cultural heritage, with over 170 monuments restored thus far.

In addition, EU-funded infrastructure projects, ranging from renewable energy systems to youth sport facilities, have further improved living standards in the Turkish Cypriot community. The Commission remains resolute in its commitment to confidence-building and the reunification efforts on the island.

(For more information: Maciej Berestecki: +32 229-66483; Isabel Arriaga e Cunha +32 229-52117)