Cyprus President Tells European Parliament: “Unity Is Europe’s Greatest Strength”

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides addressed the plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg on January 20, 2026, presenting the priorities of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union and calling for unity as Europe’s greatest source of strength.

Speaking at what he described as a defining moment for the European project, Christodoulides stressed that the EU’s ability to act collectively—despite crises, geopolitical instability, and economic pressure—remains its most powerful asset. He highlighted Cyprus’ unique position as the EU’s southeastern member state and the only member still under military occupation, underlining the importance of security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

The Cypriot President warned that Europe faces unprecedented challenges, including Russia’s war against Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, climate change, migration pressures, and growing global trade tensions. He argued that these challenges require deeper European integration, stronger defense readiness, and a more autonomous yet open Union capable of acting independently when necessary.

Christodoulides outlined five core pillars of the Cyprus Presidency, beginning with security and defense. He reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing that allowing borders to be changed by force would undermine the foundations of European peace. He also called for enhanced EU–NATO cooperation, stronger maritime security, cyber resilience, and effective migration management.

On competitiveness, he stressed that economic strength is inseparable from strategic autonomy, calling for reduced bureaucracy, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, deeper capital markets, and accelerated green and digital transitions. He also emphasized the need to retain European talent and build a true Energy Union.

Addressing Europe’s global role, Christodoulides highlighted EU enlargement as a vital geopolitical tool, reaffirming support for Ukraine, Moldova, the Western Balkans, and engagement with neighboring regions. He described enlargement as central to completing the European peace project, while also stressing the importance of fair and open trade partnerships worldwide.

The President also underscored the EU’s social dimension, calling for action on affordable housing, child protection, health resilience, and social inclusion, ensuring that no citizen or region is left behind. He concluded by stressing that the next EU multiannual budget must reflect these priorities and translate unity into tangible action.

“Europe’s future will be measured by our ability to act together,” Christodoulides said, concluding with a reminder that unity—across institutions and member states—remains the cornerstone of the European ideal.