Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides arrives for an EU Summit at the European Council building in Brussels, Oct. 23, 2025. [Francois Walschaerts/AP Photo]
The Republic of Cyprus has assumed the presidency of the Council of the European Union at a moment of profound change, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has said.
“Against the backdrop of geopolitical upheaval and unpredictability. The choices we make now will shape our union’s future. The Cypress presidency rises to this moment with a clear vision,” the president said, in a video message published on the official website of the six-month Cypriot Presidency of the EU, which it assumed on January 1.
That vision was for “a Europe that can stand strong, stable, and secure. an autonomous union open to the world because autonomy is a necessary next step in our evolving integration European project,” he said.
“We will work as honest brokers with determination strengthening Europe’s defense and security which includes water security, maritime security and addressing migration in a comprehensive way but also enhancing the union’s crisis preparedness,” Christodoulides added.
Referring to Ukraine, he noted that “our support for Ukraine – for supporting international law, territorial integrity and sovereignty – will remain firm and steadfast.”
Noting that an autonomous EU must also be competitive, he pointed out that ” Cyprus will advance simplification, cutting red tape and ensuring that our small and medium-sized businesses and our innovators can thrive.”
A strong, autonomous Europe is also a Union open to the world, he said, adding that “we will work to deepen relations with our transatlantic partners and to expand and strengthen partnerships with our southern neighborhood and the Gulf.”
Furthermore, he noted that international trade agreements are of crucial importance and that the Cypriot presidency will promote an open, strong and sustainable trade policy by expanding the network of trade agreements.
Noting that an enlarged union is a stronger and more stable union, the Cypriot president stated that Nicosia will work to promote a credible enlargement agenda.
“An autonomous union is also a union of values, a union that leaves no one behind. We will work to advance social cohesion, focusing on affordable housing and the protection of our children online,” he also said.
This overall strategic vision, continued President Christodoulides, must be reflected in a balanced, long-term budget that can deliver a more secure and resilient Union, capable of leading as a global power, while ensuring that we move forward together.
“Europe works when we take it forward. And that is precisely what this moment demands. Together for an autonomous union open to the world,” he concluded.