Brussels: Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Rouna, stated on Tuesday that Cyprus endorses the approval of the SAFE instrument, designed to bolster the European defence industry. However, she emphasized that it is inconceivable for countries not respecting the security, sovereignty, and interests of the Union and its Member States to benefit under this framework.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Raouna, speaking ahead of the General Affairs Council in Brussels, highlighted the importance of the European Commission’s commitment that third-country entities’ participation will be subject to bilateral agreements. SAFE is poised to support member states investing in defence industrial production through collective procurement, offering up to 150 billion euros in long-term, competitively priced loans to enhance production capacity and address capability gaps.
The Deputy Minister further underscored the significance of human dignity and rights for all, including the LGBTIQ community, as pivotal for both the EU and Cyprus. Cyprus has joined a joint declaration by 20 member states urging Hungary to reconsider decisions against Pride events.
During the meeting, the Council of the EU was set to hold Hungary’s eighth hearing under the Article 7 procedure on the rule of law, initiated by the European Parliament in 2018. Hungary has faced criticism for actions potentially banning Pride events in Budapest, prompting a statement co-signed by 20 countries, including Cyprus, demanding the decision be revoked.
Raouna also addressed a separate debate on the rule of law concerning developments in Slovakia, Belgium, Finland, and Sweden, asserting that the rule of law is foundational for the EU. She emphasized its priority in the Trio Presidency shared by Cyprus with the current Polish Presidency and the upcoming Danish Presidency, maintaining its significance during Cyprus’s presidency in the first half of 2026.
Referring to the SAFE Regulation, Raouna reiterated its role in strengthening the EU’s defence industry and strategic autonomy. She stressed that countries disrespecting the Union’s security and sovereignty should not benefit. The European Commission’s commitment to limited third-country participation based on bilateral agreements under Article 212 is crucial, she noted.
Cyprus approved the SAFE Regulation, conditioned on Article 212 as the legal basis for third-country participation, with the Commission’s commitment recorded during the Permanent Representatives meeting where the regulation was advanced.
Regarding other agenda items, Raouna affirmed Cyprus’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, advocating for a thirty-day ceasefire as a step towards a comprehensive resolution. On the Middle East, she called for an end to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and supported negotiation efforts for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
Raouna discussed upcoming changes to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) Regulation, part of efforts to enhance Union competitiveness and efficiency as part of the Omnibus Package. She emphasized its prominence during the Cypriot Presidency starting January 1, 2026.