Cyprus has assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the second time, which will last from 1 January to 30 June 2026. The country holds the Presidency under the motto: “An Autonomous Union – Open to the World” in consistency with the priorities and the motto of the Polish Presidency – “Security, Europe”, and of Denmark – “A strong Europe in a changing world”, under the current state of European and International Affairs, related to the need for a more Secure and more Autonomous European Union.
The logo and visual identity of the Cyprus Presidency draw inspiration from one of the island’s most distinctive symbols of cultural heritage: the embroidery of Lefkara.
Built around the idea of thread, it symbolises unity, resilience and cooperation within the EU. The 27 elements represent the member states coming together as one, while the sun-inspired design and warm colours reflect Cyprus’ heritage and commitment to a strong, united Europe.
The Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU opens a new stage in cooperation between Member States, focusing on the key challenges and priorities of the Union in the geographical, economic and information dimensions.
During the current six months, the Cyprus Presidency will act as an honest broker among all EU Member States to achieve the best possible synthesis of their positions under the following 5 priority thematic pillars:
- Autonomy through Security, Defence Readiness and Preparedness
The Cyprus Presidency is focused on the strengthening of the EU’s capacity to safeguard itself and act independently. It supports key defence initiatives that will improve EU’s defence readiness and strategic autonomy. The Cyprus Presidency intends to enhance EU’s ability to respond effectively and proactively in key security and autonomy dimensions: maritime security, economic security, water resilience, migration management, attacks on democracy, all forms of discrimination and internal threats.
- Autonomy through Competitiveness
The Cyprus Presidency focuses on boosting EU’s competitiveness as a way to improve EU’s autonomy, resilience and ability to deliver on its strategic objectives. In order to achieve that, a clear, predictable and simplified regulatory framework is needed. In that regard, the Cyprus Presidency goal is to work towards the completion and strengthening of the Single Market, deepen capital markets, shift toward sustainable, resource-efficient productions and ensure affordable and predictable prices of energy for citizens. The Cyprus Presidency is also focused on EU’s digital sovereignty and securing EU’s digital leadership.
- Union Open to the World
The Cyprus Presidency wants to increase EU’s role as a strategic global actor in shaping international developments and global crisis response. One of the dimensions that the Cyprus Presidency will aim to advance in this regard, is the EU’s enlargement, as part of an investment in EU’s future. The other aspect of this priority is openness to partnerships and cooperation between the EU and external actors such as EU’s neighbours, Middle East, Gulf partners and USA.
- An Autonomous Union of Values that Leaves No One Behind
The Cyprus Presidency recognizes the importance of protecting the EU’s shared values and empowering participation of citizens. In that regard the Cyprus Presidency intends to strengthen the Rule of Law and cooperation among Member States. Another dimension of this priority is social cohesion; thus, the Cyprus Presidency wants to focus on matters such as tackling poverty, ensuring affordable housing, highlighting the importance of mental health, protecting children and ensuring social equality.
- A long-term budget for an Autonomous Union
The Cyprus Presidency is aware that in order to ensure all of the aforementioned goals, a sufficient financing is required. In that regard, the Cyprus Presidency intends to significantly advance negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034 (MFF).
During its six-month presidency, Cyprus is organizing a series of meetings, mainly in Cyprus and Brussels. These include three summits, 19 informal ministerial meetings, and 52 formal ministerial meetings.
More information about the Cyprus Presidency as well as the scheduled meetings may be found at the following link: https://cyprus-presidency.consilium.europa.eu/en/
