Greek Cypriot administration assumes EU Council presidency in Nicosia

The Greek Cypriot administration officially took over the rotating presidency of the European Union Council, marking the start of its six-month term with an opening ceremony held on Wednesday in Nicosia.

The ceremony was hosted by Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and attended by European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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Presidency vision and priorities

Under the motto “An Autonomous Union. Open to the World,” the Greek Cypriot administration said its presidency aims to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy while continuing engagement with global partners.

During its tenure, the administration will focus on five key priorities: security and defense readiness, economic competitiveness, openness to the world, building an autonomous union grounded in shared values, and shaping the European Union’s long-term budget framework.

Greek Cyprus leader Nikos Christodoulides gives a speech during a debate at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France on June 13, 2023. (AFP Photo)

Second presidency amid shifting challenges

This marks the second time the Greek Cypriot administration has held the rotating EU Council presidency, following its first term in 2012, which coincided with the eurozone financial crisis.

The administration formally began its presidency on Jan. 1.

The presidency of the EU Council rotates among member states every six months, with Ireland set to assume the role from July 1 through Dec. 31.

January 09, 2026 05:27 AM GMT+03:00