Troodos: Less than 120 days before Cyprus takes on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna outlined the significant responsibilities ahead. She described the upcoming presidency as both a historic challenge and a substantial opportunity for Cyprus, as the country will be tasked with handling over 330 legislative and other dossiers.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Raouna made these remarks following a Cabinet session held at the presidential residence in Troodos, where preparations for the Presidency were a central focus. She assured that all preparations are proceeding ‘on schedule,’ with Cyprus gearing up to host 258 meetings, including 80 at the ministerial level. One of the key events will be the Informal European Council, scheduled for April 23-24, 2026, with participation from heads of state and government.
Raouna emphasized the rarity of this opportunity, noting that the Cyprus Presidency occurs once every 14 years. She expressed the country’s ambition to leverage this role to bolster its standing within the EU. The Deputy Minister also mentioned the organizational demands of the Presidency, highlighting that approximately 28,000 delegates are expected, and preparations are advancing according to the plan.
The dossiers Cyprus will manage include critical issues such as the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the EU budget for the coming seven years, and the EU simplification package aimed at easing administrative burdens for SMEs while enhancing competitiveness. Raouna further noted that Cyprus’ program of priorities is nearing completion, with the semester program at an advanced stage.
Migration policy is another focal point, as Raouna announced that Cyprus’ Presidency will see the commencement of the Asylum and Migration Pact’s implementation. Additionally, she underscored Cyprus’ focus on EU relations with the Middle East and Gulf countries, citing geographical proximity and the impact of cooperation on EU security and competitiveness.
Negotiations for EU free trade agreements with these regions are already in progress and deemed crucial for strengthening EU competitiveness through international trade agreements. Raouna also mentioned that housing issues, significant to both Cyprus and other EU member states, will be addressed during their Presidency.