The commissioner of the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organisation (Capo) Andreas Kyprianou said the newly established deputy ministry of culture will play a vital role in boosting the island’s rural economy and promotion of traditional products.

Kyprianou spoke after meeting the Deputy Minister of Culture Yiannis Toumazis on Tuesday to exchange views on the state of Cyprus’ primary sector, especially on how to attract young people to agriculture.

“There is great interest from young people in Cyprus’ primary sector and we all need to help them in their efforts,” Kyprianou said.

“Along with the deputy ministry of culture, we also discussed ways to protect and promote Cypriot traditional craftmanship, in order for the primary sector to flourish even more.”

Moreover, the Capo commissioner briefed Toumazis on the organisation’s responsibilities in distributing EU funds destined for the agricultural sector aimed at upgrading rural areas.

“The organisation’s aim is to grant as many EU funds as possible in the primary sector, thus providing direct support to our farmers and bringing them together,” a statement released by Capo on Wednesday said.