Nicosia: The approval of £9.2 million in funding from the European Solidarity Fund to support fire-affected areas in Cyprus, efforts to recognise the rights of lawful landowners in the occupied areas through European Union policies, and initiatives to establish a European Agency for Rare Diseases based in Cyprus, are among the initiatives undertaken by Cypriot MEP Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP, DISY). He presented a review of his first two years in the European Parliament during a press conference held at the EU House in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, over the past two years, Hadjipantela has played a leading role in 40 parliamentary dossiers and served on six parliamentary committees. He has made decisive contributions in the Plenary, helping shape European policies with tangible results for Cyprus and European citizens.
Hadjipantela noted his role as Rapporteur and Shadow Rapporteur on numerous legislative and budgetary dossiers, representing the European People's Party on issues such as the economy, European budget, public health, environment, energy, taxation, and the EU's strategic autonomy. He has made 33 speeches in the Plenary, tabled 41 written questions, participated in more than 170 institutional meetings, organised 18 political events, and joined six parliamentary delegations.
Among his significant activities, he highlighted his appointment as Rapporteur for the European Parliament's 2027 Budget and his involvement in negotiations on the new Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034. These efforts aim to set European priorities and funding levels for Member States.
He also emphasized his involvement in the Annual Report on the European Banking Union, where he incorporated proposals to strengthen protection for borrowers and primary residences, especially for vulnerable households. Migration has been another focus, where he helped shape strategies to address root causes and support frontline countries like Cyprus and Greece.
Hadjipantela's parliamentary work also includes public health, civil protection, tax simplification, boosting European business competitiveness, the international role of the euro, the green transition, energy security, and supporting European industry.
Regarding Cyprus, Hadjipantela highlighted the importance of the £9.2 million in funding for fire-affected areas and initiatives for displaced persons, including an amendment to the Common Agricultural Policy 2028-2034 Regulation. He is also working on establishing a European Agency for Rare Diseases in Cyprus.
On the next Multiannual Financial Framework and the EU's own resources, Hadjipantela mentioned ongoing negotiations with proposals for taxing betting companies and increasing cigarette taxes. He aims to complete this process by year's end, considering potential changes in the French Government.
Regarding the European Banking Union report, Hadjipantela plans to inform the Association of Cyprus Banks and seek their response. If unresponsive, he will address the European Central Bank.
On the RescEU civil protection programme, Hadjipantela confirmed links with the European firefighting centre in Cyprus and mentioned increased budget allocations for civil protection.
Regarding Turkey's participation in the SAFE programme, Hadjipantela indicated that Turkey is currently excluded, with any participation contingent on developments in the Cyprus issue.
Finally, on erecting a memorial in the European Parliament for Turkish invasion victims and missing persons, Hadjipantela said the resolution is under consideration, pending progress on the Cyprus issue.