Leaders meet in Nicosia for key EU talks
EU strategic autonomy requires the European Union to have sufficient resources in order to achieve its ambitions, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Friday, speaking upon his arrival at the informal EU leaders’ meeting in Nicosia.
The discussions are taking place under the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU and focus on competitiveness, defence, energy and the Union’s role in a changing geopolitical environment.
Focus on competitiveness and single market
Christodoulides said EU strategic autonomy will also depend on strengthening competitiveness, noting that leaders are expected to discuss how to enhance the Union’s economic resilience.
He announced that he will sign the “One Europe, One Market” roadmap alongside the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Parliament. The roadmap sets concrete timelines and targets aimed at strengthening EU competitiveness.
Budget and resources at the centre of talks
The President stressed that EU strategic autonomy is directly linked to available financial resources, making discussions on the Multiannual Financial Framework particularly important.
He said he hopes for a political rather than technical debate, adding that the Cypriot Presidency aims to present a mature negotiating framework with specific figures by June.
Stronger ties with the wider region
Christodoulides also highlighted the importance of strengthening EU cooperation with neighbouring countries, noting that leaders are hosting representatives from Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
He said EU strategic autonomy also depends on deeper regional partnerships, adding that countries in the region trust the European Union and seek closer cooperation to support stability and de-escalation.
He pointed to Egypt and Jordan as existing examples and said the EU should begin discussions with Lebanon on a comprehensive strategic agreement.
Energy security and long-term planning
Energy was also a key topic in discussions, with leaders addressing both short-term measures and long-term solutions.
Christodoulides said EU strategic autonomy requires an integrated energy approach, including progress towards an energy union and stronger infrastructure networks. He noted that finance ministers will continue discussions in May, ahead of further proposals expected in June.
Article 42.7 and EU defence coordination
The President also referred to Article 42.7 of the EU Treaty, which concerns mutual defence. He said leaders agreed that the European Commission should prepare an operational response framework in case a member state activates the clause.
He explained that the goal is to ensure clarity on how EU countries would respond, what support would be required, and how coordination would function in practice.
Positive assessment of talks
Asked about his overall assessment, Christodoulides said he is satisfied with the discussions, highlighting broad recognition among member states of the need for a clear operational framework for EU strategic autonomy and collective security.
Also read: EU Informal Summit enters 2nd day, focusing on new MFF
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