Cyprus takes over EU Council Presidency with enlargement as a top priority
Cyprus officially assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
President Maia Sandu extended her congratulations to Cyprus and President Nikos Christodoulides, expressing confidence that the coming months will bring crucial decisions for EU stability.
In her message, Sandu emphasized that Moldova looks toward this presidency with optimism. She also thanked Denmark for its leadership and dedication during the previous six-month term which concluded in December 2025.
Best wishes to Cyprus as it assumes the Presidency of the EU, and to President @Christodulides. We look forward with hope and confidence to the months ahead.
— Maia Sandu (@sandumaiamd) January 1, 2026
Sincere thanks to Denmark and @Statsmin for leadership and dedication over the past six months.
Nicosia’s role in a decisive semester
From January to June 2026, Nicosia will coordinate ministerial meetings and act as a mediator among the 27 member states. While the presidency does not set policy unilaterally, it plays a central role in advancing legislative agendas and facilitating political compromises.
The 2026 agenda includes several sensitive files, such as economic competitiveness reforms and continued support for Ukraine. Additionally, Cyprus will manage difficult negotiations regarding the European Union's future long-term budget.
Enlargement remains a strategic focus
EU enlargement is a top priority for the Cypriot mandate. This commitment was confirmed by H.E. Christina Rafti, Cyprus’s Permanent Representative to the EU, who noted that the presidency is guided by principles of continuity and coherence.
"We have worked for the progress of Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and the Western Balkans," Rafti stated during a recent press briefing in Brussels. This aligns with Cyprus’s motto for the term: "An autonomous Union. Open to the world."
Moldova’s European path as a national project
During a meeting in Nicosia last December, President Sandu described EU integration as more than a political goal, calling it an essential national project for Moldova’s future.
Sandu noted that Cyprus uniquely understands the challenges of defending sovereignty and building resilience. She praised Cyprus’s support for a "credible and ambitious" enlargement agenda that rewards states committed to reform.
Cyprus has been an EU member for 21 years and its current leadership of the Council is seen as a pivotal moment for Eastern Partnership countries seeking deeper integration.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
