Nicosia: We approach the Presidency of the Council of the EU as a moment of responsibility and as a member state that fully understands how high the stakes are today for the European Union: the need to translate strategic objectives into tangible results and tools, and to articulate our strategic priorities as a Union, Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna said on Wednesday speaking at a press conference in Nicosia for the journalists accredited in Brussels.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Raouna outlined the priorities of the Cypriot Presidency of the EU, emphasizing the intensive preparation over the past two years. She highlighted that the Presidency is a national priority for Cyprus, as stressed by President Christodoulides. Raouna noted that the role of the Presidency is not just an institutional function but a significant responsibility.
In Brussels, the size of Cyprus is often mentioned due to its small stature among EU member states. Raouna stated that Cyprus's size and geographical position are strengths, particularly in managing demanding and extensive agendas during its Presidency.
The Deputy Minister emphasized Cyprus's unique perspective on international law, sovereignty, and independence due to its own experiences with violations of international law for over 50 years. This gives Cyprus a particular sensitivity regarding Ukraine, which was discussed during President Christodoulides' visit to Kyiv on 4 December.
Raouna highlighted Cyprus's role in promoting regional cooperation and acting as a pillar of security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. She underlined that Cyprus has developed the diplomatic expertise needed to navigate complex international landscapes effectively.
Cyprus's ability to set aside its national agenda to focus on the European agenda was also emphasized. Raouna mentioned that Cyprus's small size allows it to be inclusive and work towards bridging differences, as demonstrated by the recent agreement on Mercosur.
The priorities of the Cypriot Presidency include defence and security, migration, competitiveness, international trade agreements, and social cohesion. Raouna noted that affordable housing is a new priority under their fourth pillar. The core objective is an economic union open to the world, with a focus on strategic autonomy within the EU.
Raouna explained that the Cypriot Presidency is structured around five interlinked pillars, with the first pillar focusing on autonomy through security, defence, and preparedness. The support for Ukraine is a priority during the Cypriot Presidency, emphasizing the importance of European security architecture.
In defence, Cyprus will focus on implementing key initiatives, including EU-NATO cooperation. Security is also approached through a lens that includes migration, with a focus on implementing the Pact on Asylum and Migration.
The second pillar relates to autonomy through competitiveness, with efforts to reduce bureaucracy, promote innovation, and strengthen the single market. The third pillar concerns enlargement, ensuring that the EU delivers results when partner countries do.
Raouna also mentioned the importance of the Middle East, the southern neighbourhood, and the Gulf in achieving the EU's core priorities. The informal European Council in Cyprus in April will focus on the implementation of the Pact for the Mediterranean.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, and despite repeated UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be achieved. The most recent negotiations in Crans-Montana in 2017 ended without success.