Countries that threaten the security and defence interests of the EU and its Member States have no place in European defence initiatives, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna said during the EU General Affairs Council in Luxembourg on Tuesday.
Raouna emphasised that Cyprus supports cooperation with like-minded partners but drew a clear line: “We support all mechanisms and tools, as well as the participation of like-minded third countries, but countries that pose a threat to the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States cannot participate in our defence initiatives.”
The Council met to prepare for the European Council of 23 October in Brussels, discussing Ukraine, the Middle East, European defence and security, competitiveness, the twin transition, housing, migration and Moldova. Ministers also debated the EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, progress on the European Democracy Shield, and the ninth hearing of Hungary under Article 7(1).
During a working breakfast with Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka, Raouna confirmed that President Christodoulides will visit Ukraine in December 2025, reaffirming Cyprus’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Referring to the Middle East, Raouna welcomed the progress made at the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit, noting that the first phase of the Gaza peace plan marks “significant progress.” She said the EU must play an active role in shaping the “day after,” focusing on stabilisation, recovery and reconstruction. Cyprus, she added, has prepared a six-point plan aligned with the US proposal, including humanitarian aid and reconstruction through the Amalthea maritime corridor, which she proposed as an EU tool for both assistance and rebuilding efforts.
On competitiveness, Raouna underlined that simplification and the digital and green transitions are key to boosting the EU economy. She said the upcoming Cypriot Presidency will prioritise the simplification agenda, continuing the work begun by Denmark. The transitions, she stressed, must remain “fair, realistic and inclusive,” especially considering the challenges faced by island Member States.
Addressing the European Affordable Housing Plan, Raouna reiterated Cyprus’s commitment to advancing the project during its presidency, respecting the principle of subsidiarity. She announced that an informal ministerial meeting on housing will be held in Cyprus in May 2026.
In the debate on the MFF, Raouna said Cyprus supports a simplified and flexible financial framework capable of responding to emerging challenges, welcoming the inclusion of the Solidarity Fund and Emergency Aid Reserve within budget ceilings. “As the incoming Presidency, Cyprus is committed to advancing negotiations towards a political agreement by the end of 2026, guided by transparency, inclusion and cooperation,” she added.
Raouna also backed the Commission’s proposal for the European Democracy Shield, stressing the importance of protecting elections and democratic integrity from foreign interference. She supported creating a European Centre for Democratic Resilience and confirmed Cyprus’s willingness to participate in a pilot programme for a European ‘Digital Age of Consent’ for access to social media.
Finally, representing the Foreign Minister, Raouna attended the EU–Uzbekistan Cooperation Council, where she said Cyprus supports deeper EU–Central Asia relations grounded in international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Source: this article has been adapted from material from the CNA
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