Cyprus has officially assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, with President Nikos Christodoulides saying the goal is an EU that “will combine its strategic autonomy with its international extroversion, defending its interests and its people, while at the same time operating as a force of peace, stability and growth.”
Speaking in Nicosia, he said Cyprus would continue acting as a bridge between Europe and its wider region. “Always as part of the solution and never as part of the problem,” he added.
Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna said Cyprus was taking on the role with “immense pride and a deep sense of responsibility,” determined “to act as a bridge between member states… and between Europe and its wider region.”
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told the ceremony he believed the war could end during Cyprus’ presidency and that “Ukraine also deserves to be an equal part of our common European home,” while calling for upgraded sanctions on Russia and the implementation of the €90 billion Ukraine support package.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated that Cyprus’ reunification remains “an absolute priority” and stressed that “Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security.”
European Council President Antonio Costa also underlined support for Ukraine and Greenland.
The ceremony, held under tight security at the Thoc theatre in Nicosia, included a large cultural performance involving over 100 Cypriot artists and was followed by an official dinner hosted by Christodoulides.
Source: Cyprus Mail.
