Limassol: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to establish a Regional Aerial Firefighting Center in Cyprus during a joint press conference with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. The announcement was made following consultations at the new port of Limassol between the College of Commissioners and the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, focusing on cooperation during Cyprus's six-month term.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the press conference emphasized the strategic role Cyprus will play as it steers the EU's common agenda in the first half of 2026. Von der Leyen underscored Cyprus's unique position at the crossroads of continents and cultures, highlighting its expertise in dialogue, negotiation, and diplomacy.
President Christodoulides outlined the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency, which include migration, climate change, and regional security, among others. He expressed Cyprus's readiness for full accession into the Schengen Area by 2026 and briefed the Commission President on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus issue.
The establishment of the Regional Aerial Firefighting Center, a priority for the EU, will be based near the Andreas Papandreou Air Base in Paphos. This initiative aims to respond to wildfire emergencies and enhance capacity building in the region. Von der Leyen expressed hope that the hub will be inaugurated during Cyprus's EU Presidency.
The discussions also covered the Mediterranean Action Plan, with von der Leyen emphasizing the importance of stability in the Middle East. Cyprus is seen as the ideal Presidency to promote the Pact for the Mediterranean, fostering political dialogue and cooperation in areas such as energy, migration, and regional security.
President Christodoulides expressed confidence in achieving tangible results through close cooperation with the European Commission. He highlighted the Cyprus EU Presidency's commitment to promoting European integration and strategic autonomy, addressing EU defense and security, and enhancing the Union's international role.
The press conference also touched on the EU-Mercosur agreement and ongoing negotiations with countries like India, Australia, and the UAE. Von der Leyen highlighted the importance of a competitive Europe and the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum, noting improved migration trends in Cyprus and the EU.
The Cyprus EU Presidency is expected to play a key role in advancing the next long-term EU budget, with a focus on delivering a modern and ambitious budget by the end of 2026.
In addressing regional priorities, von der Leyen and Christodoulides reiterated the EU's commitment to promoting stability and prosperity in the Mediterranean and Middle East, with Cyprus uniquely positioned to lead these efforts.