Cyprus to Assume EU Presidency in 2026 with Focus on New Approach and Regional Engagement
Cyprus will assume the presidency of the European Union for six months starting January 2026, pledging to deliver a new approach and a "different mindset" to the role. The island nation, with a population of about 1.2 million, last held the presidency in 2012 and has spent more than two years preparing for the upcoming term.
Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos emphasized that Cyprus aims to leverage its status as a small state to offer a distinct and focused contribution to the EU agenda. This includes bringing in issues from the wider Middle East region, seeking broader EU outreach towards the Middle East and India.
Core EU priorities during Cyprus's presidency will remain defence, migration, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine amid Russia's aggression. However, the divided status of Cyprus—with the Greek Cypriot south and Turkish Cypriot north—and tensions with Turkey complicate military cooperation. Cyprus has blocked Turkey's participation in the EU defence procurement programme SAFE due to the continued presence of Turkish troops in the north.
Despite these challenges, Cyprus stated it will not use the presidency to press national issues and expects to engage constructively with Turkey’s leadership. President Christodoulides has expressed a desire for Turkish President Erdoğan to attend an informal EU council meeting scheduled for April.
The presidency's motto, "an autonomous union, open to the world," signals Cyprus's intention to push for stronger EU independence and global engagement. Cyprus plans to explore regional opportunities in Syria, Gaza, Lebanon, and the Red Sea, highlighting that this region also holds opportunities for the EU.
Additionally, Cyprus aims to pursue a potential EU-India free trade zone as part of strengthening the bloc’s strategic autonomy and expanding its international partnerships.
