Von der Leyen: The Cypriot EU Presidency begins at a pivotal moment for Europe

The Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU begins at a pivotal moment for Europe, says the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, welcoming the Cypriot Presidency in a post on X.

Ms von der Leyen welcomes the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU, writing: “Welcome @CY2026EU!”. She adds that it “begins at a pivotal moment for Europe. And so its focus on strengthening Europe’s autonomy couldn’t be more important,” she stresses. Finally, she notes that she looks forward to working together to enhance Europe’s preparedness and competitiveness.

Καλωσόρισες, @CY2026EU!

Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency begins at a pivotal moment for Europe.

And so its focus on strengthening Europe’s autonomy couldn’t be more important.

I look forward to working together to boost Europe’s preparedness and competitiveness. pic.twitter.com/2jyFVKqpsd

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 1, 2026

Also read: Cyprus politics of 2025: the year in review

Source: CNA