European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the Cyprus EU Council Presidency opening ceremony in Nicosia on January 7, 2026, projecting geopolitical resolve and EU solidarity.
Ukraine security as EU priority
Von der Leyen asserted “Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security,” applauding Cyprus’s commitment to simultaneously open negotiation clusters for Ukraine and Moldova while pursuing a just, sustainable peace framework.
Absolute commitment to reunification
She reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering dedication to a comprehensive, fair, lasting Cyprus reunification solution in line with UN parameters.
Von der Leyen highlighted appointing former Commissioner Johannes Hahn as EU Special Representative for Cyprus to invigorate the process, expressing optimism that 2026 marks renewed momentum toward island reunification.
Cyprus as regional security hub
Recognizing Cyprus’s pivotal humanitarian and security role, she recalled visiting Larnaca port with President Nikos Christodoulides to observe Gaza-bound aid operations, describing Cyprus’s “critical contribution” firsthand.
Von der Leyen praised the new regional firefighting center and Cypriot firefighters’ “operational courage” in international missions.
Strategic autonomy amid challenges
Framing Cyprus’s Presidency against a “uncertain, divided world,” she positioned the nation as a matured Eastern Mediterranean front-line state. Key priorities include slashing bureaucracy, completing the Single Market, and establishing a Savings and Investments Union to finance Europe’s future – stressing only a more competitive EU achieves true independence.
Cultural legacy and optimism
Concluding with Cyprus’s storied heritage, from Aphrodite’s Paphos birth to Zeno of Citium founding Stoicism, von der Leyen urged transforming challenges into opportunities rather than fearing them. She closed proclaiming “Long live Europe.”
Also read: EU Presidency opens with powerful artistic tribute
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