Message by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Nikos Christodoulides

On 1 January 2026, Cyprus proudly assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. For six months, the heart of our Union will beat from its southeasternmost corner. From its last divided, still occupied member state.

At this moment of profound responsibility, Europe stands at an inflection point. At a moment in time when the choices we make today, the policies we form, the partnerships we shape, old and new, will define our future. The future of our Union.

The Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU rises to this moment with a clear vision: 

For a Europe that can stand taller and bolder in a turbulent, shifting world. Stable, strong, secure.

An autonomous Union. Open to the world.

We will work with determination, ambition and pragmatism to advance this vision.

Now, more than ever, Europe must be ready to stand up for itself and its people. 

This strategic vision must be reflected in our Multiannual Financial Framework. It must allow us to deliver on a stronger, more secure and resilient Union. One that can lead the way as a global power. All while ensuring that we advance together. 

Our strong, unwavering support to Ukraine will continue, on all fronts. We will work decisively to strengthen our security and defence, our crisis preparedness, and effectively address migration in a comprehensive way. 

An autonomous Europe also means a Europe that is engaged and open to the world. Interconnected. We will work to deepen partnerships with our Southern Neighbourhood and Gulf partners, in a region that is inextricably linked to Europe’s security and prosperity, from greater energy and trade cooperation to enhanced competitiveness and strengthened maritime security. At the same time, this region is a clear point of convergence with our transatlantic partners. A space where shared interests and cooperation can strengthen our alignment and cooperation with the United States of America. 

An enlarged Union is a stronger, more secure and stable Union. Enlargement is a geostrategic necessity and investment in Europe’s future. Together, we must continue to work for the reunification of Europe. The Cyprus Presidency will work diligently on advancing enlargement.

Autonomy also means economic strength and social cohesion. A Europe that competes globally and delivers opportunities for all. We will strive for simplification: doing things simpler, smarter, faster. Cutting red tape for a robust European economy where small and medium-sized enterprises can thrive and every investment serves our strategic goals. 

In a shifting world, the European Union stands as a stable, predictable actor, anchored on respect for international law and multilateralism. 

We are a Union of values. The Cyprus Presidency will work to advance and defend our values: democracy, human rights, the rule of law. Ensuring that Europe delivers on its promise of dignity, inclusion, social cohesion. Coming together to make housing more affordable. Ensuring that Europe remains the best place to live, work, create and raise a family.

The story of Europe is the story of peace over conflict, unity over division, freedom over oppression.

In Cyprus, still divided and under occupation for more than half a century, we live with the unbearable pain of division. But we also know the power of unity. And we look to the European project and its unifying power as our source of renewed and unyielding hope.

Europe is, at its heart, an evolutionary project. It only works when we take it forward. 

And that is what we must do. Together.