Nicosia, Cyprus (AP) — The royal visit of Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima to Cyprus included a fascinating exploration of a potato field and a production facility on the Mediterranean island. The tour took the royal couple to the heart of Xylophagou and Liopetri, renowned areas in Cyprus known for their potato cultivation.
Cyprus boasts potatoes as its third-largest agricultural export, with a significant reliance on the Netherlands for about three-quarters of its potato seeds. This agricultural partnership was highlighted during the visit, capturing the attention of Cypriot Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou.
While the volume of Cypriot potato exports to the Netherlands remains moderate, with around 200,000 kilograms (441,000 pounds) valued at 250,000 euros ($263,500) in the first half of last year, Panayiotou expressed optimism for a deeper collaboration with the Netherlands. She emphasized the potential for Cyprus to benefit from Dutch expertise in advanced agricultural technology, particularly in areas such as smart irrigation systems.
Given Cyprus’s susceptibility to drought and its increasing reliance on desalination for water supply, the exchange of knowledge with Dutch experts could prove invaluable for the island. Panayiotou announced plans to visit the Netherlands in June to develop a comprehensive plan for the transfer of agricultural know-how to Cyprus.
The royal couple’s visit, spanning over two days, concludes on Wednesday, marking an exciting chapter in the evolving relationship between Cyprus and the Netherlands in the agricultural sector.
