Nicosia, Cyprus – May 16, 2024 – This year marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Norway and Cyprus.
For 20 years, our two countries have been together in the European Economic Area – the largest free trade market in the world. During the same period Norway and Cyprus have cooperated within the financial support framework of the EEA and Norway Grants.
To honour this milestone, the Norwegian Embassy is organizing a special walking event in the heart of Nicosia, highlighting some of the flagship projects funded by the Norwegian government through the EEA and Norway Grants. The walk will commence at the Centre for Visual Arts and Research (CVAR) on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 16:30 hrs.
There will be a guided tour where participants will be visiting supported projects, with stops including the Solidarity Nicosia in Action Network (Chrysaliniotissis, 30-32), Nicosia Town Hall hosting a captivating photo exhibition showcasing projects and stories of the past 20 years, PRIO Cyprus Centre (Arsinois 52), and the Cyprus Museum (Mouseiou 1). The event will culminate at the Home for Cooperation (Markou Drakou 28) in the UN-controlled buffer zone, where attendees will enjoy a lively street party featuring performances by the bicommunal band Island Seeds and Zildji & Hiktune Project.
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, the Ambassador of Norway to Cyprus, Mrs. Lajla Jakhelln, remarked, “Guided by the values European integration and cooperation are built on and mutual interests, we stand proud of the consistent collaboration that has flourished between Norway and Cyprus over the past two decades. Our heartfelt thanks to all the people, organisations, and stakeholders who have honoured Norway’s commitment to nurturing dialogue and bicommunal exchanges on the island. We are proud to mark this anniversary while we will continue to work together towards a green, competitive, and inclusive Europe”.
About the EEA and Norway Grants:
The EEA and Norway Grants represent the contribution by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to foster European integration and cooperation. The Grants have two goals – to contribute to a more equal Europe, both socially and economically – and to strengthen the relations between the donor countries and the 15 Beneficiary States. Norway contributes with more than 97 percent of the funding.
Cyprus has been receiving financial support since 2004 equal to EUR 24 million.
