Brussels: The strategic significance of the EU Cypriot and Greek Presidencies for the future of Europe was highlighted by Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, in his speech at the 4th Brussels Delphi Economic Forum. “The two Presidencies, of Cyprus and Greece, can play a vital role in moving forward priorities, which will remain pertinent for the rest of this European Commission’s term,” he stated.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Commissioner emphasized the geostrategic importance of the two countries, which, thanks to their position, can strengthen the EU’s relations with the Eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, he pointed out the unique opportunity to highlight the challenges faced by island and coastal communities. “The two Presidencies will have the unique opportunity to highlight the importance of the coastal and island communities, their specificities, and the challenges they face, and propose measures to address these challenges,” he said.
Kadis noted, “the Commission’s Work Program for this year is a significant step in addressing these challenges. At its core lies a commitment to simplification, to boosting competitiveness and unlocking the full potential of the single market. It emphasizes Europe’s strategic autonomy, security, and defence capability. It also focuses on affordability, housing, job protection, and investments in clean energy and innovation.”
He further stressed that “in parallel, we are witnessing a renewed momentum of EU enlargement. The determination of our partners to align with EU standards demonstrates the continued appeal of our model and values. Enlargement remains a strategic investment in Europe’s stability, prosperity, and peace.”
Among the immediate priorities is “the negotiation and conclusion of the next European Multiannual Financial Framework, a more streamlined, flexible, and impactful budget that finances European priorities and strengthens our capacity to act,” he mentioned.
Regarding the strategy for addressing these challenges, Kadis mentioned that in 2026, the Commission will adopt a strategy for island communities during the Cypriot Presidency. “This will be done through the coastal and islands communities’ strategy to be adopted in 2026 during the Cyprus Presidency and implemented during the next Presidencies, including the Greek Presidency,” he said.
Additionally, Kadis linked the success of these goals to the implementation of the Mediterranean Pact. “It will also build on the recently adopted Mediterranean Pact, which should now be implemented,” he said.
“An immediate priority will be the implementation of the European Ocean Pact, the first ever holistic strategy for the preservation and sustainable management of our ocean,” Kadis added.
He also referred to the Ocean Act, which is expected to integrate all related goals under a single framework. “One of the initiatives emanating from the Pact will be the Ocean Act, which we will propose towards the end of 2026. It will bring all ocean-related targets under one roof, thus establishing better coordination and coherence among ocean-related policies,” he noted.
Referring to the importance of the EastMed Sea Basin Initiative, Commissioner Kadis underlined that “a further initiative relevant to Cyprus and Greece is the development of an EastMed Sea Basin Initiative, the East Med being the only sea basin in Europe without a dedicated management plan. It will promote regional governance and a sustainable blue economy across the Eastern Mediterranean.”
In conclusion, the Commissioner expressed his belief that Cyprus and Greece will approach their Presidencies as proud Mediterranean and European nations. “I am certain that Cyprus and Greece will approach their Presidencies as proud Mediterranean and European nations, knowing that unity is built not only in institutions, but through the bonds connecting our peoples and regions,” he said.
Finally, he underscored that the coming years will be decisive, offering a unique opportunity to embed a strong Mediterranean dimension within the European project. “The coming years will be decisive. The Presidencies of Cyprus and Greece present a unique chance to embed a strong Mediterranean dimension within the European project, one that is outward-looking, inclusive, and resilient,” he said.