Cyprus unveils EU presidency priorities on security and migration

Cyprus unveiled its priorities for its upcoming European Union presidency on Sunday, pledging to work toward an "autonomous Union open to the world" as it prepares to assume the rotating role on 1 January.

President Nicos Christodoulides presented the programme at an event in Pano Lefkara, outlining five interconnected pillars to guide Cyprus's six-month tenure as president of the Council of the European Union.

"In 10 days we assume an institutional role and responsibility towards Europe, our fellow citizens, our children," Christodoulides said. "Cyprus is ready to lead. To become for six months the voice of the 27 member states."

The presidency comes at a key time for the union, with Russia's war in Ukraine continuing and Europe facing what Christodoulides described as "intense geopolitical challenges" that test the bloc's resilience, unity and cohesion.

Five pillars outlined

According to its five pillars for the upcoming presidency, Cyprus will focus on autonomy through security and defence, autonomy through competitiveness, openness to the world, shared values, and budget negotiations for the EU's next financial framework.

On security and defence, Cyprus will support major defence initiatives and promote rapid implementation of the White Paper on European Defence and the Roadmap for Defence Preparedness by 2030. The presidency identified strengthening transatlantic relations and Euro-NATO cooperation as cornerstones of European security.

Cyprus will also prioritise freedom of navigation and security in maritime corridors, implementing the EU Maritime Safety Strategy, Christodoulides said.

The presidency identified migration management as a central security issue. "The Cyprus presidency will promote as a key priority the full implementation of the Pact on Immigration and Asylum and will promote the strengthening of the return system," Christodoulides said.

On competitiveness, Cyprus will promote administrative simplification, enhance energy security through alternative supply routes and affordable prices, and strengthen digital sovereignty to reduce external dependencies.

Enlargement and neighbourhood focus

Cyprus has committed to advancing the EU enlargement agenda, with Ukraine identified as a key priority. The presidency will continue to promote diplomatic, political, economic, military, energy, and humanitarian support for Ukraine.

The presidency will also work to strengthen EU relations with the Southern and Eastern Neighbourhood and the Gulf countries, and to promote cooperation through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. It will deepen ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council and the League of Arab States.

On values, Cyprus will focus on strengthening the rule of law, affordable housing, anti-poverty measures, online child protection, gender equality, and mental health policies.

The presidency will advance negotiations on all legislative dossiers for the proposed Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034, aiming to deliver an indicative framework by June.

The presidency also unveiled its logo, featuring 27 digits representing EU member states, inspired by traditional Lefkari embroidery and designed by graphic designer Marios Kouroufexis.

Cyprus is the EU's smallest member state by population and has been partially occupied by Turkey since 1974. Christodoulides described Cyprus as "the south-easternmost tip of Europe, the last member state of Europe under occupation".

The presidency comes as Europe grapples with multiple challenges including agricultural policy debates and the proposed Mercosur trade agreement.