President Nikos Christodoulides has defined the integration of the European Union with the broader Middle East as a primary pillar of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, confirming that high-level European missions to the region are now proceeding following his specific recommendations.
In a meeting on Thursday with the Secretary General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Christodoulides outlined that one of the presidency’s three core priorities is to anchor the EU significantly closer to the region. He noted that the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Council are currently visiting Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon as a direct result of his suggestions.
“Yesterday was a very important day for us. We are glad you came,” Christodoulides told Aboul Gheit. “One of our three basic priorities is to bring the EU much closer to the region, and the Arab League must and can play a very important role in this effort.”
The President indicated that the Informal European Council, scheduled for 23 and 24 April 2026, will serve as a venue to present tangible projects and specific works. He added that through the announcement of the “EU Pact,” the presidency will demonstrate how the Union can become more deeply involved with the region.
Christodoulides highlighted several diplomatic milestones currently in motion:
- Egypt: The President noted his satisfaction with the first EU-Egypt Summit held in Brussels, an initiative he stated has been promoted since 2014.
- Jordan: The first high-level EU-Jordan Council is taking place in Jordan today.
- Lebanon and Gulf States: Work is underway to begin discussions for a “strategic and comprehensive agreement” with Lebanon, alongside efforts to engage the wider Middle East, including the Gulf countries.
The President concluded that today’s discussions would focus on further actions the presidency can take to strengthen these ties, citing “common challenges” and “great prospects” through cooperation. Secretary General Aboul Gheit thanked the President for the invitation to the official opening ceremony of the Cyprus Presidency, noting the significant symbolism of the gesture.
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