Cyprus brings a “unique perspective” to its EU presidency

by Martin Banks

“It is in the Mediterranean that we find the roots of our civilisation. As a Mediterranean island nation at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Cyprus understands the importance of building bridges, fostering dialogue, and working toward inclusive, European solutions.”

Costa was speaking after Cyprus took over the rotating presidency of the EU from Denmark, that comes at a particularly turbulent time in world history with wars raging in various parts of the globe, including in Ukraine. Cyprus takes the helm of the Council at a very challenging moment, he continued saying ,“when the international rules-based order is under attack, undermining multilateralism, fair trade, and the fundamental principles of the United Nation Charter.” According to Costa, “Cyprus’ own history of occupation and division has given it a very concrete understanding of the crucial value of international law for peace and stability among nations.” And he went on, “Europe is not just a geographical reference – the European Union is a community of values. Our collective strength is based on a prosperous economy and increased investment in defence – yes. But, above all, it depends on the consistency with which we defend these values.”

The Council president noted, “That is why the European Union cannot accept violations of international law - whether in Cyprus, Latin America, Greenland or Ukraine. On Greenland, allow me to be clear: Greenland belongs to its people. Nothing can be decided about Denmark and about Greenland without Denmark, or without Greenland. They have the full solid support and solidarity of the European Union. Europe will remain a firm and unwavering champion of international law and multilateralism.” The Portuguese born official said, “We, Europeans, have learned from our own history that unilateralism is a fast track to conflict, violence and instability. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has demonstrated this once again very clearly. A war of aggression that constitutes a gross violation of international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. The European Union’s steadfast support for Ukraine represents a bold defence of those principles, shared by nations around the world. That is why we will continue to fight for a just and lasting peace.”

President Costa concluded saying, “In 2026, working hand in hand with the European Commission, we must give a new impetus to the EU’s economic competitiveness. We must deliver for our citizens. Because social cohesion without prosperity is unsustainable.”