Nicosia welcomes European leader
The Cypriot EU Presidency launch ceremony takes place today in Nicosia, welcoming heads of European institutions and state leaders for the start of Cyprus’s term at the helm of the Council of the European Union.
President Nikos Christodoulides will conduct a series of high-level meetings throughout the day. A key quadrilateral meeting is set for 15:30 with European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Earlier at 10:30, Christodoulides will hold a bilateral meeting with Zelensky. This will be followed at 16:15 by another meeting with Costa, and shortly before 17:00 with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. At midday, he will also receive the Egyptian Minister of Petroleum.
Reception at THOC building
Just before 18:00 until 18:30, President Christodoulides will receive state leaders, government representatives, and heads of European institutions outside the THOC building.
In recent statements, President Christodoulides voiced absolute confidence that the Cypriot EU Presidency will fulfill this institutional duty to the European Union. He stressed a singular objective: bolstering European autonomy and accelerating European integration, a necessity underscored by ongoing international developments.
Detailed traffic measures
Police have announced traffic arrangements and prohibitions due to the Launch Ceremony of the Cypriot EU Presidency on Wednesday, January 07, 2026, at 18:30 at the THOC building in Nicosia.
Parking bans will be enforced on Demosthenis Severi Street, Gr. Axentiou Street, Michail Karaoli Street, Lordos Vyronos Street, Kostis Palamas Street, Omirou Street, Anastasiou Leventi Street, Evagorou Street, Diagorou Street, and Vasileos Pavlou Street.
Nicosia Municipality will prohibit private vehicle parking in the two underground parking areas at the old GSP stadium for the entire day.
Road closures around the THOC area begin at 14:30, with fully controlled access. Drivers must adhere to all closures, traffic regulations, and directions from on-duty police officers.
Additionally, by Order of the Minister of Transport, Communications and Works (K.D.P. 03/2026), drone usage is strictly banned in the wider THOC and Conference Centre areas (specific coordinates in the Order), effective throughout the entire Presidency period.
Instagram preparations update
President Nikos Christodoulides posted photos on Instagram showcasing preparations for the Cypriot EU Presidency launch ceremony in Nicosia.
The images capture the meticulous setup ahead of welcoming European leaders and state heads at the THOC building.
Also read: Restrictions and road closures for the Presidency Opening Ceremony
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