President Nicos Christodoulides was officially welcomed on Tuesday morning at the European Parliament in Strasbourg by its President Roberta Metsola. He was received at the Parliament’s main entrance, where heads of state and government typically enter. Standing beside the flags of Cyprus and the European Union, the national anthem and the “Ode to Joy” were played. Christodoulides and Metsola held bilateral talks followed by extended discussions.
Addressing the European Parliament
Following the meetings, the President Christodoulides addressed the European Parliament plenary, marking the official presentation of the Cyprus EU Presidency priorities at a crucial moment for Europe’s future. He highlighted the unique nature of the European project, describing the EU as “the greatest political project the world has ever seen,” where equality, rather than size or power, defines influence. He also emphasized the EU’s resilience: “Yes, our Union is not perfect. But it is precisely this capacity to evolve, especially in times of crisis, that makes it exceptional.”
Strategic autonomy and European security
At the core of the Cyprus EU Presidency vision is strategic autonomy. Christodoulides stressed that European independence must go beyond rhetoric and become the next stage of integration, rooted in internal strength and outward engagement. He noted that the EU must defend its citizens, borders, interests, and values while strengthening its security architecture, including maritime, cyber, and crisis readiness.
Supporting Ukraine and international stability
Turning to the international context, the President highlighted that “war has returned to our continent,” referencing the Russian aggression against Ukraine. He warned that violations of fundamental principles, such as sovereignty and territorial integrity, “make everything negotiable,” threatening European stability. Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus’s support for Ukraine and stressed the need for a stronger European security framework.
Economic competitiveness and open Europe
The President outlined the importance of a more competitive and economically autonomous Europe. He emphasized investments, innovation, and the digital and green transition as key drivers. Enhancing the single market, deepening capital markets, and fostering industrial modernization are central to the Cyprus EU Presidency agenda. Christodoulides also stressed the need for an Energy Union and open trade partnerships to strengthen Europe’s global position.
EU enlargement and regional cooperation
Christodoulides underscored the strategic value of EU enlargement, from Ukraine and Moldova to the Western Balkans and Turkey. He described enlargement as “the most transformative geopolitical tool of the Union,” vital for peace, democracy, and stability. The President also highlighted cooperation with the Southern Neighborhood and Gulf countries, promoting initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) and strengthening trade partnerships with strategic partners like the UAE and India.
Promoting European values and social cohesion
Finally, the President stressed that the EU is not just a single market or a currency but a community of values. He highlighted priorities such as affordable housing, child welfare, education, cyber-safety, and healthcare systems.
Christodoulides emphasized that the next Multiannual Financial Framework should deliver results in defense, competitiveness, sustainability, resilience, and cohesion, reinforcing Europe’s commitment to citizens’ rights and democratic values.
Accompanying President Christodoulides in Strasbourg were Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, Press Office Director Viktoras Papadopoulos, Permanent Representative to the EU Christina Rafti, and senior officials.
Watch the EU Parliament live here.
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