European Council President António Costa underscored that Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU will take place at a crucial time, highlighting the need for unity and inclusiveness in shaping the bloc’s agenda.
Costa made the remarks during a visit to Nicosia, where he met with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides as part of his tour of EU capitals.
“It’s all the member states that matter,” Costa said. “It is very important to build unity among the member states, to talk face to face with different leaders, and to take into account the different priorities and points of view.”
He stressed that the first half of 2026, when Cyprus will hold the rotating presidency, will be particularly significant: “We count on you to put in motion our priorities — competitiveness, security, but also deeper engagement with the region.”
Referring to the Mediterranean and the Middle East as “a critical point for the world,” Costa emphasized that the EU must work toward “peace, stability, and prosperity” in the region.
Following their bilateral talks, Christodoulides affirmed that Cyprus is prepared to shoulder its responsibilities during the presidency. He noted that Nicosia will address both traditional EU priorities — such as the Multiannual Financial Framework, cohesion policy, and the Common Agricultural Policy — as well as newer challenges, including competitiveness, security and defense, and migration.
Christodoulides also welcomed Costa’s initiative to visit all EU capitals ahead of the October European Council meeting.
