On Tuesday, President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus outlined the priorities for the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union during a session at the European Parliament. The theme presented was “Autonomous Union. Open to the World,” with a focus on addressing current global challenges.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomed President Christodoulides and emphasized the significance of this period for both Europe and the wider world. Metsola stated, “we all know that the next six months will not be easy.” She added that Europe would continue to prioritize competitiveness, support families and businesses, invest in security and defence, and ensure Europe’s voice is strong globally. Metsola also reiterated support for Cyprus’s goal of a unified state, saying, “the EP will always be on Cyprus’s side towards a single sovereign European state: a bicommunal, bizonal federation in line with the UN resolutions and rooted in our shared values and EU law.”
President Christodoulides described the start of Cyprus’s Presidency as occurring at a critical time for the European Union, referencing geopolitical instability, economic competition, war in Europe, digital and environmental transitions, and migration pressures. He said that international order could no longer be assumed stable and called for unity and deeper integration within Europe. Christodoulides stated that autonomy should be pursued through internal strength, competitiveness, security, and adherence to EU values. He stressed that citizens expect Europe to protect its borders, defend democracy, safeguard its way of life, and remain an open partner internationally.
Addressing security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Christodoulides remarked on the need to reinforce Europe’s security framework. He reaffirmed ongoing EU support for Ukraine and asserted that “borders cannot be changed by force,” referencing Ukraine as well as other regions such as Greenland.
On economic matters, Christodoulides advocated for investment-driven growth policies focused on innovation and simplification to benefit small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), along with completion of the single market.
He further argued that maintaining openness is vital for EU autonomy. Enlargement was highlighted as an important geopolitical tool; he called for progress with candidate countries including Ukraine, Moldova, Western Balkans nations, and Türkiye. Relations with neighboring regions like the Southern Neighbourhood and Gulf region were identified as key priorities alongside robust transatlantic partnerships.
Christodoulides also discussed social policy goals such as ensuring affordable housing, reducing child poverty, protecting young people’s interests, strengthening healthcare cooperation across member states (Health Union), and improving access to essential medicines.
Members of the European Parliament responded by welcoming Cyprus’s focus on autonomy and unity amid complex geopolitical circumstances. Several MEPs noted Cyprus remains divided due to military occupation; they urged renewed efforts toward reunification under international law principles. Many speakers described enlargement as crucial for stability in Europe.
Debate participants also raised issues related to migration management—some calling for stronger border controls while others emphasized solidarity—and discussed ways to make EU budgets more equitable.
