Brussels: Cyprus Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, has voiced serious concerns regarding the expansion of Israel’s military operations and condemned the violation of Qatar’s territorial integrity. This statement was made during her intervention at the General Affairs Council of the EU in Brussels, where she highlighted the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian access to Gaza.
According to Cyprus News Agency, a press release from the Secretariat of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026 emphasized Raouna’s call for the unconditional release of hostages and the necessity for Hamas to have no role in Gaza’s future, aligning with the two-state solution outlined in UN Security Council resolutions. She stressed that this approach is crucial for achieving peace in the Middle East.
The General Affairs Council meeting also covered preparations for the upcoming European Council scheduled for October 23-24, 2025, legislative programming for 2026, and discussions on the Rule of Law in the EU and candidate countries, including Albania and North Macedonia. The ministers exchanged views on developments in Ukraine, European defense and security, and issues like competitiveness, housing, and migration.
Raouna condemned Russia’s attacks on civilians in Ukraine and expressed solidarity with Poland and Romania following airspace violations. She called for a firm EU stance on such violations to maintain European security and reiterated Cyprus’s commitment to peaceful border resolutions.
On the Middle East situation, Raouna reiterated the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza while condemning Israel’s military actions. She highlighted Cyprus’s humanitarian efforts, including delivering 1,200 tons of aid to Gaza via the Amalthea corridor, with more aid planned.
Regarding security and defense, Raouna expressed anticipation for the European Commission’s roadmap to achieve EU defense readiness by 2030, highlighting the significance of the SAFE program. She clarified that third countries opposing EU security interests should not participate in SAFE.
Housing was also a key issue, with Raouna acknowledging it as a national competence but stressing European-level challenges. She announced Cyprus would host a special informal Council of Ministers to present a European Affordable Housing Plan in May 2026.
The Council’s discussions on the Rule of Law recognized progress while emphasizing the need for continued efforts. Raouna described reports on candidate countries like Albania as balanced and essential for guiding reforms.
In legislative matters, Raouna welcomed the focus on EU autonomy and integration, particularly in energy and security. She highlighted the importance of simplifying procedures for SMEs and innovation, enhancing energy interconnectivity, and protecting EU borders, particularly the Eastern Mediterranean.
Raouna also underscored the necessity of addressing climate change, referencing recent Mediterranean fires and welcoming the establishment of a European firefighting center in Cyprus.
Ahead of the meeting, Raouna participated in an Intergovernmental Conference on Albania’s negotiation progress, encouraging continued reforms and reaffirming enlargement as a priority for the Cypriot Presidency.