Luxembourg: Countries that pose a threat to the security and defence interests of the European Union and its Member States cannot participate in EU defence initiatives, stated Marilena Raouna, Deputy Minister for European Affairs, during the General Affairs Council of the EU in Luxembourg. She participated in a working breakfast with Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, where she announced that the President of Cyprus would visit Ukraine in December 2025.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the morning session of the Council, which precedes the European Council meeting on 23 October in Brussels, involved Ministers exchanging views on the draft conclusions of the European Council. An orientation debate on the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034 followed. During a working lunch, discussions were held on the Commission’s proposal for the European Democracy Shield, and in the afternoon, the 9th hearing of Hungary took place under the Article 7(1) procedure of the Treaty on European Union. Additionally, the Danish Presidency presented progress on simplification packages.
The preparation for the European Council covered topics including Ukraine, the Middle East, European defence and security, competitiveness, the twin transition, housing, migration, and Moldova. Raouna highlighted developments in the Middle East, culminating in the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit, asserting that the EU must actively shape the peace process and ensure its rapid implementation. She detailed Cyprus’s six-point plan aligned with the US plan for Gaza, involving security, humanitarian aid, and reconstruction, and mentioned the maritime humanitarian corridor “Amalthea” as an EU tool for aid and reconstruction.
On Ukraine, Raouna reiterated the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine, emphasizing respect for international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty. She welcomed the political message confirming the EU’s support for Ukraine’s accession path, which aligns with a merit-based approach.
Discussing security and defence, Raouna stressed the protection of EU borders, advocating for a unified European security architecture. She emphasized that countries posing threats should not partake in EU defence initiatives.
Concerning competitiveness, Raouna acknowledged the importance of simplification and transitions to digital and green economies. She committed to promoting these initiatives during Cyprus’s incoming Presidency, considering the unique challenges of island Member States.
Regarding housing, Raouna supported the European Affordable Housing Plan, announcing an informal ministerial meeting on housing in Cyprus in May 2026. She endorsed a simplified and flexible MFF structure for 2028-2034, advocating for negotiations towards a political agreement by 2026. Raouna also expressed support for the European Democracy Shield, emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic integrity and expressing Cyprus’s willingness to participate in related initiatives.
Raouna attended a breakfast meeting with Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka, hosted by Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, reiterating Cyprus’s support for Ukraine. She also participated in the 18th EU-Uzbekistan Cooperation Council meeting, advocating for strengthened EU-Central Asia cooperation based on respect for international law and territorial sovereignty.