Livestock farmers suspend protest following presidential communication

Livestock farmers have suspended a planned protest at the Rizoelia roundabout following communication with the President of the Republic. Reports regarding the timeframe requested by the President to review farmers' demands vary, with some sources citing five days and others suggesting one week. The Ministry of Agriculture has confirmed that a meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, between the Minister of Agriculture, agricultural organizations, and the 'Voice of Livestock Farmers' association. This meeting is intended to facilitate dialogue regarding issues related to foot-and-mouth disease. The President stated that his office maintains ongoing communication with all groups, while emphasizing that decisions regarding animal culling are not politically motivated. Livestock representatives, including spokesperson Stella Petrou, confirmed that they are awaiting an official response to their specific demands. The discussions aim to resolve grievances voiced by the sector concerning the management of the animal health crisis.