Cyprus is getting ready to welcome around 20,000 guests during the rotating EU Presidency, in the first half of 2026, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna told parliamentarians on Wednesday. This number includes journalists and conference participants.
In her statements before the Standing Committee on Institutions, Merit and the Commissioner for Administration of the Parliament, Raouna praised the role of the Parliament in the Presidency, describing it as exceptionally important. She said that this is an effort undertaken by the state and the Parliament is a partner. Raouna also said that accountability and transparency are essential for the government.
She said that during its Presidency, Cyprus will chair 195 working groups and subgroups and 258 meetings. Cyprus will handle 330 legislative files, which include the Multiannual Financial Framework.
The Deputy Minister said that currently the Secretariat employs 65 people, noting that 331 positions have opened for the needs of various Ministries and the Permanent Representation to the European Union.
She made it clear that these posts will be terminated no later than July 31, 2026.
As it was said before the Parliament the positions for scientific staff were approved in 7 diplomatic missions, including Geneva, Vienna, Dublin, The Hague and Amman.
Raouna told the press after the meeting that the authorities are gearing up for the Presidency and that Cyprus’ priority programme is also underway.
She said that Cyprus is assuming the Presidency at a critical juncture for the European Union, with complex geopolitical developments. She also added that Cyprus will negotiate the overall budget of the European Union for the next seven years.
She also said that a successful Cyprus Presidency will be an opportunity to strengthen our role and footprint.
Responding to a question about the priorities set by the Cyprus Presidency, the Deputy Minister said that these include issues related to EU social policies such as housing, high energy prices as well as the strengthening of the European Union’s relations with the Middle East and the Gulf region.
Meetings, informal councils and conferences will be hosted at the renovated Filoxenia Conference Center in Nicosia.
( Source:CNA )
