Nicosia: The initiative of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU for the establishment of a European Center of Clinical Excellence for pharmaceuticals, as well as the management of the European Space of Health Data, and the access to mental health care services, particularly for the youth, are the main subjects on which the Informal Meeting of EU Health Ministers focused on Thursday in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Oliv©r V¡rhelyi, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, noted in a statement before the meeting that Cyprus is holding the Presidency at a very crucial moment. He mentioned a series of proposals made at the end of 2025, aiming to 'completely overhaul the European health system as we know it, so that the European health system continues to be a leader in the world,' and added that 'we need now the Presidency to start delivering in the key files.' He noted that one goal is an agreement on the Critical Medicines Act, to proceed working on the Biotech Act, 'which holds the future of our healthcare system.'
Cyprus' Health Minister, Neofytos Charalammbides, stated, 'Our Presidency's health agenda focuses on strengthening strategic autonomy and showing equitable access to medicines, medical devices and quality health care, while reinforcing public health as a pillar of development in the EU.' He emphasized three strategic pillars: preparedness, reliability, and effectiveness of the EU health system, which will be addressed by the establishment of the European Center of Clinical Excellence for pharmaceuticals. The second pillar is mental health and inclusiveness, with better accessibility to health institutions, particularly for young people. The third is the implementation of the European Health Data System.
Jennifer Caroll Macneill, Ireland's Health Minister, highlighted the importance of mental health, inclusion, and the European Health Data Space for the benefit of everyone in Europe. She also mentioned that Ireland's upcoming Presidency is collaborating closely with Cyprus on advancing significant files related to medical devices and bioethics.
Greek Health Minister, Adonis Georgiades, pointed out that the meeting is taking place in the last capital where European land is under foreign occupation. He expressed full support for the initiative for the European Center for Clinical Excellence, stating that it will contribute to the development of pharmaceuticals in the EU. Regarding the European Health Data Space, he remarked that it will enable Europe to become more competitive and emphasized the role of mental health in social cohesion.
Jo Etienne Abela, Minister of Health and Active Aging of Malta, underscored the importance of boosting cooperation between member states in health care delivery, noting that personalized care may adversely affect small member states. Regarding mental health, he stressed its continued importance at the EU level within the legislative framework.