Consultation held for UNESCO Biosphere Reserve bid in Xeros and Diarizos river valleys

On June 12, 2026, an informational seminar regarding the bid to designate the Xeros and Diarizos river valleys as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve took place at the Panagia Environmental Education Center. This event was co-organized by the Office of the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare and the Unit for Environmental Education and Sustainable Development of the Ministry of Education, Sport, and Youth. The initiative follows a contract signed in January 2026 for the preparation of the nomination file. Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou, who stated this is the fourth such event in the series, provided updates on the progress of the candidacy. The program featured presentations from Pafos Aphrodite Development Company Director Evgenios Savvas, as well as representatives from state agencies, academic institutions, and local government. The event aimed to inform local communities and stakeholders about ongoing consultation and preparation efforts. Deputy District Officer of Pafos, Frosso Georgiou, was scheduled to deliver an opening address.