Transport ministry, Dutch embassy push cycling

The Dutch embassy in Cyprus is hosting an event aiming to promote cycling in cities, with the aim of improving alternative means of transport.

The event, Cycling in the City, on Sunday has the backing of Cyprus’ transport ministry. It is the second year it is being carried out.

Ambassador Elke Merks-Schaapveld said “green transition is high up for the Dutch foreign ministry’s agenda. We want to see our EU partners collaborate with us for this goal.”

As such, the embassy is increasingly working with Cypriot authorities, she added.

To this effect, early in the 2010s, the Dutch embassy funded experts from the Netherlands to create an integrated system of cycle paths for specific areas in Cyprus.

“We are now pleased to join forces with Cyprus’ transport ministry and other Cypriot stakeholders to help raise awareness of the benefits of cycling, and part of this effort is this exciting bike ride in Nicosia.”

The event begins at 9am on Sunday at the road safety park in Aglandjia, from where participants will cycle for 45 minutes until they reach the centre of Nicosia.

Transport Minister Alexis Vafeadis said “cycling will make a decisive contribution to mitigating traffic problems and will ensure accessibility and mobility for all citizens, giving equal opportunities for alternative transport to those who wish to travel economically and through a means that has proven to be beneficial to health and psychology.

“We invite citizens to embrace the event and join us.”