President Nikos Christodoulides departs for the EU Parliament in Strasbourg this afternoon to address the European Parliament plenary tomorrow, January 20, 2026.
He presents Cyprus EU Council Presidency’s priorities and six-month political agenda under the motto “An Autonomous Union. Open to the World”.
Strategic autonomy emphasis
The address highlights Europe’s need to bolster strategic autonomy, resilience, and competitiveness within rising geopolitical challenges.
Cyprus assumes European responsibility as the EU’s southeasternmost member and the only European capital under illegal occupation.
Christodoulides underscores commitment to international law, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states – especially amid recent European and global developments – and defence of fundamental EU values as prerequisites for security, stability, and EU cohesion.
This mirrors the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion and international law violations, expressing European credibility and collective responsibility for peace and legality.
Regional bridge role
Cyprus positions itself as the EU’s bridge to the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, advocating a more active, cohesive, strategic European presence for regional stability, peace, and cooperation.
The Presidency prioritises enhancing EU competitiveness through investments in innovation, research, energy security, digital technology, and green transition, ensuring Europe remains economically robust, socially equitable, and geopolitically credible.
Protecting EU external borders fully respects rule of law and human rights. Accelerating green and digital transitions delivers social justice and tangible citizen benefits – core pillars for a resilient, secure, competitive Europe on the world stage.
Open dialogue and events
Post-presentation, President Christodoulides fields comments and questions from MEPs in an open parliamentary dialogue and accountability process, followed by a joint press conference with the EU Parliament President.
He holds a bilateral meeting with the EP President, focusing on close institutional cooperation during Cyprus’ Presidency and effective advancement of EU agenda priorities.
Together, they inaugurate the Press and Information Office exhibition “Myths of Cyprus” – a cultural initiative highlighting the island’s historical path and cultural identity within the European realm. This underscores that European political identity rests on both shared values and the peoples’ cultural heritage.
Christodoulides returns to Cyprus Tuesday evening.
Also read: Tsikkini’s response to Karsera: “Intimidation and silencing”
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