President Nikos Christodoulides said on Thursday that the European Council must take decisions on all major files, noting that Ukraine will dominate the meeting. He expressed hope that leaders will emerge more united, particularly on securing long-term economic support for Kyiv.
He said Cyprus is fully prepared for the Presidency, identifying three priorities. The first is to strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy. The second is to deepen engagement with the wider Middle East. The third is to push for European responses to everyday pressures on citizens, including housing and energy costs. He said all issues discussed today will carry over into the Cypriot Presidency.
The President stressed that financial support to Ukraine must be designed in a way that avoids directing security-related funds to countries that occupy or threaten EU territory. This position was also raised at the European People’s Party Summit earlier in the day. He added that Cyprus did not come to “corner” Belgium or any other state and that decisions should be reached by consensus.
Christodoulides highlighted the planned reference in the Council conclusions to the appointment of Johannes Hahn as the personal envoy of the European Commission President for Cyprus. He described the appointment as a long-standing goal and said the Council’s endorsement signals a renewed effort by the EU to play a leading role in restarting talks.
On Turkey, he welcomed language reaffirming UN resolutions and the agreed basis for a settlement. He said references to the fenced-off area of Famagusta provide ground for further diplomatic pressure.
He also pointed to the letter sent by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to EU leaders on migration. He welcomed two references to Cyprus relating to progress on Schengen readiness and to the rise in returns. He said returns have increased by more than 60 percent and arrivals have fallen by more than 80 percent, prompting interest from other member states in Cyprus’ approach.
He reiterated that enlargement will be a priority of the Cyprus Presidency. He said Nicosia has submitted a plan to revive progress, with Montenegro and Moldova cited as countries where momentum should be rewarded. “They did their part,” he said of Moldova, adding that it is the EU’s responsibility to secure results.
Asked about farmers’ demonstrations across Europe, he said the debate on the EU budget always generates concerns among agricultural groups. He said the Multiannual Financial Framework must reflect new priorities such as defence, security, migration and competitiveness, while continuing to support long-standing sectors, including agriculture. A first discussion on the MFF is expected at the Summit and Cyprus aims to secure a political agreement by the end of 2026.
He said sanctions will also feature in today’s discussions. He reminded reporters that at the October Council he had presented specific information on companies used to circumvent restrictions in Russia and Iran. He said sanctions remain a central EU tool and must be fully enforced.
Christodoulides closed by saying the European Council comes at a decisive moment. “It is time for decisions on all issues and I hope we will end the night more united,” he said.
Source: CNA