Union Open to the World: Cyprus takes over Presidency of Council of EU

On 1 January, Cyprus took over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union and will hold it until 30 June 2026.

The motto of the Cyprus Presidency, ‘An Autonomous Union – Open to the World’, reflects a forward-looking approach that combines internal strength and independence with openness, cooperation and global engagement, the Presidency page says.

In a video message, President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides said his country would continue working on strengthening Europe’s defence and security.

“Our support to Ukraine – for upholding international law, territorial integrity, and sovereignty – will remain firm and steadfast,” Christodoulides said.

He added that the Cyprus Presidency would continue working on an enlarged Union – “a stronger, more stable Union”. 

“Cyprus will work diligently to advance a credible enlargement agenda,” he said.

The Cyprus Presidency is concluding the 18-month Poland-Denmark-Cyprus Trio Presidency of the Council of the EU, building on their shared programme of upholding European values within the EU.

This marks the second occasion on which Cyprus has assumed the Presidency, following its first term in 2012.

During its six-month Presidency, the Republic of Cyprus will chair numerous meetings and conferences in Brussels and Luxembourg. Around 260 meetings will be held in Cyprus, including 27 high-level meetings, such as an informal meeting of heads of state and government, and 19 informal ministerial councils.

Find out more

Programme, priorities and logo of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026

Video: Message by Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic on the Cyprus