Cyprus EU Presidency: Focus on Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides reaffirmed that the Cyprus EU Presidency will advance legislative packages on health, such as the Critical Medicines Regulation (CMA), the Biotechnology Regulation, and the 'Safe Hearts' initiative.

During a press conference in Nicosia, following the Informal Meeting of EU Health Ministers, Mr. Charalambides assured European Commissioner for Health, Oliver Varhelyi, that the Presidency will address outstanding issues.

The Critical Medicines Regulation is a top priority, aiming to complete the dossier within the six-month Presidency. The 'Safe Hearts' initiative aims to prevent cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in the EU.

The meeting also discussed the creation of a European Centre for Clinical Excellence for medicinal products, strengthening the mental health agenda, and implementing the European Health Data Space.

Commissioner Varhelyi emphasized the importance of early access to medicines, creating an inclusive mental health policy, and implementing the European Health Data Space. He also mentioned that the Biotechnology Regulation will accelerate innovation and clinical trials in Europe.