Cyprus assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union on Thursday, taking over leadership duties that pass between the bloc’s 27 member states every six months.
Following the end of Denmark’s term, Cypriot officials will now chair ministerial meetings, help broker compromises between EU countries and steer legislative work until the end of June. The presidency places Cyprus at the center of EU decision-making during a period marked by economic, security and migration challenges.
Key priorities for the EU in the first half of 2026 are expected to include reforms aimed at boosting competitiveness, continued political and military support for Ukraine, and further measures to curb irregular migration. Negotiations on the EU’s next long-term budget are also likely to feature prominently, alongside several ongoing legislative projects.
Cyprus, which has a population of around one million, has adopted the slogan “An autonomous Union. Open to the world” for its presidency, signaling a focus on strategic independence while maintaining strong global engagement within the European Union.
Follow the latest news on Google News
