Brussels:President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, arrived at the European Council in Brussels and highlighted five key issues, starting with the need for greater flexibility in national energy measures and the suspension of the Emissions Trading System 2 (ETS 2). He also stressed the importance of reaching a political agreement on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) by the end of the year and anticipated developments regarding Cyprus's accession to Schengen in December.

According to Cyprus News Agency, Christodoulides advocated for the EU to allow more national measures on energy costs and supported the suspension of ETS 2, a stance shared by several member states. He also addressed the geopolitical and economic significance of the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection and raised concerns about Turkey's actions related to this matter.

Welcoming the new proposal from the EU Irish Presidency on the MFF, Christodoulides emphasized the need to balance new EU policies in defense and security with existing commitments to the Common Agricultural Policy and Cohesion Fund. He expressed hope for progress at an extraordinary summit in November and highlighted the political nature of the MFF discussion, considering political developments in member states like Sweden and Spain.

Christodoulides also mentioned the EU's decision to establish a mission in Lebanon, offering Cyprus as a potential operational hub due to its proximity and existing infrastructure. On migration, he noted Cyprus's effective actions that have significantly reduced arrivals and endorsed a European emergency mechanism.

Regarding Cyprus's application to join the Schengen area, Christodoulides indicated that technical processing is complete, and discussions are expected in December. He also touched on international issues, including the EU's coordination with the United States and the need for a unified approach towards China.

Christodoulides concluded by discussing the EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit, emphasizing the importance of closer ties between the Gulf region and the EU and reaffirming the EU's role as a security provider in the Middle East. When asked about Britain's potential return to the EU, he expressed readiness to welcome them back.