Nicosia: The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, described the upcoming Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU as a “collective national mission” that will strengthen Cyprus’ position within the European structure, highlight its role as the southeastern border of the Union, and make a decisive contribution to shaping policies that affect citizens’ daily lives. He made these remarks during a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Council of the EU, Th©r¨se Blanchet, and the Director-General for Institutional and General Policy, Didier Seeuws, at the Presidential Palace, on Thursday morning.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized that the upcoming Presidency is a top priority for the government. He stated, “As we embark on this very important assignment, we are preparing methodically, intensively, to deliver an ambitious, pragmatic and results-oriented Presidency, as honest brokers, in the spirit of sincere cooperation, in an inclusive and transparent manner, well aware of the high stakes for our Union, of the need to deliver, fostering consensus to secure tangible results.”
He further explained that Cyprus approaches the Presidency as a collective national mission to enhance the country’s standing within the European framework, emphasizing its strategic position as the southeastern border of the Union and contributing decisively to policy formation affecting daily lives.
In this context, he acknowledged the significant partnership with the General Secretariat of the Council, which has been instrumental in preparations by providing continuity, logistical support, and policy expertise. The President highlighted the complex geopolitical dynamics currently faced, noting the EU’s role as a stable, responsible actor committed to core values, protecting interests, and working towards greater autonomy and integration.
Security and defense, support for Ukraine, bolstering EU competitiveness, simplification of processes, and innovation leadership are key focus areas for the Cyprus Presidency. The President also underscored the importance of progressing negotiations for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).
Th©r¨se Blanchet confirmed that Cyprus’ Presidency arrives at a crucial time, given the geopolitical context and the MFF discussions. Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, shared insights from a comprehensive discussion with the Council of Ministers on critical dossiers, including the MFF, simplification package, enlargement issues, security and defense, and continued support for Ukraine. The dialogue also addressed the impact of the geopolitical landscape on the Presidency’s negotiations and established measurable objectives for each legislative file.
The Presidency’s calendar is set to include 263 meetings, notably featuring an Informal European Council meeting.