Cyprus brings a “unique perspective” to its new EU presidency, says EU council chief Antonio Costa.
He said it was in the Mediterranean that
“we find the roots of our civilization.”
“As a Mediterranean island nation at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Cyprus understands the importance of building bridges, fostering dialogue, and working toward inclusive, European solutions.”
He was speaking after Cyprus took over the rotating presidency of the EU from Denmark.
It comes at a particularly turbulent time in world history with wars raging in various parts of the globe, including in Ukraine.
Cyprus takes the helm of the Council at a very challenging moment,he said, adding,
“when the international rules-based order is under attack, undermining multilateralism, fair trade, and the fundamental principles of the United Nation Charter.”
Costa added,
“Cyprus’ own history of occupation and division has given it a very concrete understanding of the crucial value of international law for peace and stability among nations.”
He went on,
“Europe is not just a geographical reference – it is a community of values. Our collective strength is based on a prosperous economy and increased investment in defence – yes.
“But, above all, it depends on the consistency with which we defend these values.”
The Council president noted,
“That is why the European Union cannot accept violations of international law – whether in Cyprus, Latin America, Greenland, Ukraine, or Gaza.
“On Greenland, allow me to be clear: Greenland belongs to its people. Nothing can be decided about Denmark and about Greenland without Denmark, or without Greenland.
“They have the full solid support and solidarity of the European Union. Europe will remain a firm and unwavering champion of international law and multilateralism.”
The Portuguese born official said,
“We, Europeans, have learned from our own history that unilateralism is a fast track to conflict, violence and instability. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has demonstrated this once again very clearly.”
“A war of aggression that constitutes a gross violation of international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. The European Union’s steadfast support for Ukraine represents a bold defence of those principles, shared by nations around the world. That is why we will continue to fight for a just and lasting peace.”
Costa,based in Brussels, added that
“In 2026, working hand in hand with the European Commission, we must give a new impetus to Europe’s economic competitiveness. We must deliver for our citizens. Because social cohesion without prosperity is unsustainable.”
prepare the next stage of budget discussions, ensuring that our financial resources are aligned with our goals.”
“Finally, Cyprus’ proximity to and diplomatic engagement with the Mediterranean and the Middle East and the Gulf are a key asset for Europe’s relations with all these regions. Cyprus plays a central role, notably through its leadership in humanitarian assistance to Gaza, with the Amalthea initiative ensuring aid reaches civilians safely.
“It will also make a crucial contribution to the European Union’s role in implementing the Peace Plan for Gaza endorsed by the UN Security Council. Cyprus’ leadership will be equally important to strengthen ties through the Pact for the Mediterranean.”