Nicosia: Issues concerning the rule of law, the European Democracy Shield, and the simplification agenda for advancing European competitiveness were discussed on Tuesday between Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna and European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath.
According to Cyprus News Agency, McGrath highlighted the 'excellent cooperation' following the meeting at the Secretariat of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026. He congratulated the Cyprus Presidency on 'a very productive first month' and expressed his eagerness to continue collaborating with Nicosia on advancing these issues for the benefit of European citizens and businesses.
Raouna, in her remarks, emphasized that the meeting was a continuation of ongoing discussions and praised the 'excellent cooperation' with Commissioner McGrath on key priority files for the Cyprus presidency. These discussions have already touched on the rule of law, with initial conversations held at the First General Affairs Council, set to continue in May.
The European Democracy Shield was also a focal point of their discussion, with Raouna noting its mention at the First General Affairs Council. The topic will be revisited at a joint breakfast focused on the Centre for Democratic Resilience in February. They also shared views on their shared priority of advancing European competitiveness through a simplification agenda, including several omnibus proposals.
McGrath expressed his pleasure at returning to Nicosia for the second time in three weeks and participating in the informal COMPET Council to discuss consumer policy issues. He noted the limited opportunities at the council level to address consumer matters and highlighted the Commission's recent introduction of the consumer agenda to 2030, aimed at dismantling barriers within the single market and ensuring digital fairness.
The Commissioner also addressed the consumer agenda's focus on sustainable consumption and enhanced enforcement, particularly in response to challenges posed by e-commerce and the influx of small parcels into the EU that may not meet high product safety standards.
In addition, McGrath was 'delighted' to discuss the 28th Regime with Raouna, anticipating its advancement during the Cyprus Presidency. This initiative is expected to improve competitiveness and the innovation environment within the EU.
The Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the publication of the European Democracy Shield and the upcoming establishment of the Centre for Democratic Resilience. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts to protect democratic integrity amidst borderless threats.
Finally, McGrath welcomed the Cyprus Presidency's commitment to the rule of law and its prominence on the agenda at the General Affairs Council and the Justice and Home Affairs Council. He expressed appreciation for the work being done on legislative files, including the anti-corruption directive and various Omnibus packages, and looked forward to continuing the productive collaboration with the Cyprus EU Presidency.