Cyprus is now leading the Council of the European Union. This important job starts today. The capital city, Nicosia, is very busy. Many important people are coming for meetings. A special party started this work.
Leaders from Europe came. Ursula von der Leyen was there. António Costa also came. Presidents from Ukraine, Moldova, Iraq, and Lebanon were also present. This shows Cyprus's big role. Cyprus wants to help the EU. President Nikos Christodoulides said he is proud. He thinks Cyprus can do this job.
The party had talks and art. The art showed what the EU wants to do. The event also talked about the EU and the Middle East. Ministers from Bahrain, Egypt, and other countries came. Leaders from the Arab League were there too.
There were many preparations. This made traffic difficult in Nicosia. Some roads were closed. Police gave much security. They watched important places.
Leading the EU Council is a big job. Cyprus will talk about important ideas. It will help EU countries work together. Nicosia is a good place for meetings. It connects Europe and its neighbours. Cyprus has hopes for this job. Its success will be good for Cyprus.