Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ Foreign Ministry, the Employers and Industrialists Federation (Oev) and the Pancyprian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (Paef) signed a memorandum of cooperation to promote joint actions in humanitarian aid and development cooperation. The agreement was signed on April 6 in the capital.
Framework for public-private collaboration
The memorandum establishes a structured framework of collaboration between the public and private sectors, combining the diplomatic reach of the ministry, the institutional representation of the business community by Oev, and the specialised expertise of the pharmaceutical industry through Paef.
Humanitarian assistance and knowledge transfer
Through the partnership, the parties aim to support the provision of humanitarian assistance in pharmaceutical products to countries facing increased needs due to natural disasters or crises. The memorandum also aims to facilitate the transfer of know-how and best practices in pharmaceutical policy and public health.
International profile of Cypriot pharmaceutical industry
The memorandum strengthens the outward orientation of the Cypriot pharmaceutical industry, highlighting its capabilities at an international level and enabling its participation in humanitarian and development programmes and initiatives.
Alignment with international goals and implementation
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to advance the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda, with a focus on health, innovation and international partnerships. Its implementation will rely on coordination among the participating parties and the effective use of available resources and tools to deliver measurable interventions.
Role of Oev and participants’ commitments
Oev, described as the largest employer organisation in Cyprus, is expected to continue contributing to partnerships that combine entrepreneurship with social responsibility, promoting actions with international impact and added value for the Cypriot economy and society. The memorandum defines the participants individually as “participants” and collectively as “participants”, formalising their intention to work together in a spirit of mutual trust and solidarity to strengthen humanitarian aid and development cooperation.
Roles and recognition of international cooperation
The memorandum acknowledges the Foreign Ministry’s role in planning and coordinating humanitarian and development policy, Oev’s contribution to corporate social responsibility and international cooperation, and Paef’s expertise in ensuring access to safe, effective and quality pharmaceutical products, particularly during humanitarian crises. It further recognises international cooperation as fundamental to strengthening human health, social cohesion and humanitarian action at local, regional and global levels.
Links to global frameworks
The agreement aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including Goal 3 on good health and well-being, Goal 9 on industry, innovation and infrastructure, and Goal 17 on partnerships. It also aligns with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda on financing for development.
What impact do you think this memorandum could have on Cyprus’ role in humanitarian pharmaceutical assistance?