Nicosia: The multiannual financial framework, EU enlargement, and the promotion of a more autonomous Europe are central topics at the informal meeting of EU Ministers for European Affairs taking place in Nicosia. Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna expressed a clear vision and objective to strengthen and promote a more autonomous Union that remains open to the world.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Raouna emphasized that strategic autonomy is a core focus of the Cyprus Presidency, covering aspects from defense and security to competitiveness, the economy, and trade. Discussions are centered on three main issues: the multiannual financial framework, EU enlargement, and cooperation with the United Kingdom on security and defense.
Raouna pointed out that today's discussions follow previous discussions held in Cyprus in April. The focus has now shifted from technical to political negotiations, aiming to establish a mature negotiating framework by the end of the Cyprus Presidency in June. The second agenda item is EU enlargement, with candidate and potential candidate countries joining discussions on democracy and the rule of law.
Raouna underscored the importance of an enlarged Union for achieving a more autonomous and secure Europe. She highlighted President Nikos Christodoulides' recent visit to Moldova as a signal of Europe's commitment to Moldova's integration into the EU.
During the third session, British Minister for Europe Nick Thomas-Symonds will be present. The discussions with Minister Symonds will focus on tackling foreign interference and misinformation, alongside security and defense cooperation. Preparations for the next EU-UK summit are also underway.
Raouna addressed questions about the European Commission's proposal, noting that the EU has learned from recent crises and has developed a more flexible multiannual financial framework. She emphasized the need to build on existing mechanisms to strengthen EU responses.
Regarding the change in Hungary's government, Raouna stated that enlargement remains a priority for the Cyprus Presidency. She expressed commitment to advancing accession negotiations with all partners, including Moldova and Ukraine, and ongoing communication with Hungary to achieve consensus.
In her opening remarks, Raouna highlighted the informal meeting as an opportunity to reflect on strengthening the Union based on the Cyprus Presidency's vision. The session includes discussions on the Multiannual Financial Framework, enlargement, and collaboration with the UK to address democratic challenges.
The Republic of Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU for a six-month term, starting January 1st, 2026, as part of a Trio Presidency with Poland and Denmark.