President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, has set out two key priorities for Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union: strengthening the EU’s strategic autonomy and bringing the Union closer to its neighbourhood and wider region. Speaking during a high-level visit by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and the EP’s political group leaders to Nicosia, he emphasised that achieving these ambitions will require close coordination with the European Parliament.
President Metsola, in a letter published in Cypriot media ahead of the visit, highlighted how Cyprus is poised to play a defining role in steering Europe through challenging times. She linked the Presidency’s objectives to broader European priorities: ensuring a safer, more efficient Union, strengthening the business environment, integrating capital markets, and making EU rules simpler and more effective. Migration, security, and support for Ukraine also feature prominently in both the Parliament’s and Cyprus’ agenda.
During meetings with members of Cyprus’ Council of Ministers, President Christodoulides confirmed that a successful Presidency depends on collaboration with the European Parliament. In this spirit, he announced that EP committee chairs will be invited to participate in all 19 informal Council meetings organised by Cyprus. Metsola praised the country as “a bridge between continents, countries, and people,” underscoring Cyprus’ role in facilitating dialogue, regional stability, and rapid humanitarian support.
The EP delegation also engaged with the President of the Cypriot House of Representatives and senior political representatives.
This preparatory visit is part of the European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents’ longstanding practice: engaging with the incoming Presidency to ensure shared understanding, align priorities and foster joint action. Cyprus’ Presidency, which runs from 1 January to 30 June 2026, will be formally presented in the European Parliament’s plenary in Strasbourg on 20 January 2026.
