Cyprus seeks closer cooperation on clinical research and access to new medicines

Nicosia, Cyprus. Government officials, healthcare professionals and pharmaceutical industry representatives have called for greater cooperation as Cyprus seeks to expand clinical research and improve access to innovative medicines. Their discussions focused on overcoming delays in introducing new treatments into the country’s healthcare system.

Research, funding and treatment access

AbbVie and the MSJ Group jointly organised AbbVie ONE – Human Centered Innovation at the Old Town Hall in Nicosia on October 8. The event took place under the auspices of President Nikos Christodoulides.

Participants included representatives from government, medical and scientific circles, healthcare organisations, pharmaceutical businesses and patient associations. They explored ways to turn scientific advances into effective treatments for patients in Cyprus more quickly.

The discussions covered access to innovative medicines, the expansion of clinical research, healthcare financing and the evaluation of new therapies. Participants also considered how to address conditions for which available treatments remain limited.

President outlines healthcare priorities

In a message to those attending, Christodoulides welcomed the initiative undertaken by AbbVie and the MSJ Group. He highlighted the role of research, innovation and collaboration in strengthening healthcare and improving quality of life.

He said patients must be able to obtain treatments resulting from research for scientific advances to produce meaningful benefits. The government therefore regarded prompt, safe and equitable access to effective new treatments of high quality as a priority, he said.

Christodoulides also pointed to Cyprus’ capacity to develop clinical research and healthcare innovation. He identified scope for stronger collaboration among public institutions, universities, researchers and pharmaceutical companies, saying this could open up further opportunities for healthcare, the Cypriot economy and society.

Innovation’s broader economic role

Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister Michael Damianos highlighted innovation’s significance beyond healthcare. He described it as a force supporting economic development, progress in society and better quality of life.