Informal meeting of Trade ministers

Agenda highlights

The informal meeting of Trade ministers will provide an opportunity to reflect on the priorities shaping the EU’s trade policy in light of evolving geopolitical developments and their implications for global trade and the resilience of supply chains.

On 19 February, delegates will take part in a guided tour of the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, followed by a gala dinner. The Director General of the World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will deliver a keynote address during the dinner.

On 20 February, ministers will convene for the informal meeting. The first plenary session will focus on the preparations and the EU’s objectives for the 14th World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference (MC14), to be held in Yaoundé, Cameroon, from 26 to 29 March 2026.

The second session will address EU–China trade relations, reviewing recent developments and emphasising the importance of dialogue within a rules-based international trading system.

The meeting will conclude with a working lunch, during which the Commission will provide an update on ongoing bilateral trade negotiations. Mr Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade (INTA), will attend the lunch and deliver a keynote address.

A press conference will follow, held by the Chair of the meeting, the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Mr Michael Damianos, and the Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Mr Maroš Šefčovič.

Information for journalists:

All media representatives must be accredited and have obtained verified badges. Accreditation is available exclusively through the Cyprus EU Presidency accreditation platform.