The Cabinet convenes this morning at the Presidential Residence in Troodos with the main topic being coordination and discussion of matters relating to Cyprus’s assumption of the EU Council Presidency in the first half of 2026.
According to Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna will present the Cypriot Presidency’s priorities, whilst there will be comprehensive discussion and coordination at Cabinet level.
Letymbiotis noted that ministers are periodically briefed on matters concerning their portfolios, whilst separate meetings between Raouna and ministries have already taken place.
President outlines readiness and preparations
“Now there will be comprehensive discussion and coordination ahead of assuming the Presidency,” he said, noting the start date is approaching.
Beyond the main topic, the Cabinet session is expected to make other decisions of a more administrative nature regarding pending issues.
President Nikos Christodoulides stated that assuming the Presidency represents the greatest national mission, adding it constitutes a unique opportunity to demonstrate even more in practice that the Republic of Cyprus has a voice and role in the EU.
258 meetings planned across Cyprus
During his address at the start of today’s Cabinet session, the President said preparations are proceeding normally regarding infrastructure for meetings. There will be 258 meetings in Cyprus, with 28,000 people expected to visit Cyprus during the Presidency.
Cyprus has designated 84 meetings to take place in Nicosia and 33 meetings in each other province of free Cyprus. The Presidency will involve all provinces.
Before assuming the Presidency, Cyprus will have several preparatory visits, including the College of Commissioners and delegations from the European Parliament.
Two-level priority approach
Christodoulides outlined that priorities will move on two levels. The first concerns EU dossiers Cyprus will inherit from Denmark’s Presidency, with the most important being the Multiannual Financial Framework, which he noted is always a difficult negotiation among member states.
The second involves simplification of EU procedures affecting competitiveness, security and defence matters, all contributing to strengthening EU strategic autonomy.
National priorities outlined
“Regarding our own priorities, I start with Defence and Security, which is very important,” the President said, referring to Foreign Ministers’ Councils, Defence Ministers’ meetings and European Council level discussions.
Migration represents another priority, with the President expressing satisfaction with recent figures compared to 2022, stating that other EU member states want to follow Cypriot practices. Cyprus will implement the Migration Pact during its Presidency.
Water security constitutes another priority affecting Cyprus and many other states, with the President seeking substantial progress beyond just a Declaration.
Housing concerns all states, including Portugal, Spain, Greece and Italy, with Cyprus seeking EU economic support to address challenges primarily affecting young people.
Middle East engagement planned
The final priority involves bringing the EU closer to the broader Middle East region. The President cited yesterday’s meeting with Egypt’s Foreign Minister as an example, discussing the need for the EU to approach regional states as partners. Cyprus will organise the Informal European Council on 23 April within this framework.