The informal meeting of EU heads of state or government of 23–24 April 2026 is held in Cyprus
The EU leaders arrived in Cyprus on the evening of 23 April 2026 for the informal European Council meeting, which is being held in the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.
At the centre of their discussions are geopolitical developments and how the EU should address them, including its contribution to de-escalating the crisis; issues relating to the impact on the energy sector and how the EU can make use of the tools at its disposal; the new Multiannual Financial Framework; strengthening competitiveness; and the Union’s readiness to respond to security-related challenges, including aspects linked to Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union, which concerns the mutual defence clause.
On the evening of 23 April 2026, EU leaders gathered in Agia Napa, Cyprus, for the opening session of the informal European Council meeting, held in the form of a working dinner, chaired by the President of the European Council, Mr António Costa.
Against a backdrop of growing geopolitical instability, EU leaders started a strategic discussion at a working dinner hosted by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Nikos Christodoulides.
“Now is the time, taking into consideration regional and international developments, to give substance through specific actions to our common goal of achieving the EU’s strategic autonomy.”
Prior to the dinner, the EU leaders held talks with the President of Ukraine, Mr Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reaffirming their unwavering support for Ukraine.
The second day of proceedings, on Friday, 24 April, will focus on the new Multiannual Financial Framework.
Following the conclusion of the informal meeting, the EU leaders will hold a working lunch with regional partners. Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the Gulf Cooperation Council have been invited.
Photos
See photos from the meeting on the Cyprus Presidency's Flickr account.
