Cyprus has officially started leading the Council of the European Union for six months. This is an important role. It comes at a time of global and economic problems. President Nikos Christodoulides presented a plan. The plan aims to help Europe work together better. It also aims to make Europe stronger against many challenges. Cyprus will guide the EU’s laws and plans.
The presidency begins when Europe faces big issues. There are security worries and changing international relations. The economy also needs to be stronger. President Christodoulides spoke to the European Parliament. He said the EU must be united and act fast. He has five main goals for his presidency. These goals will help manage difficult situations. He wants the EU to work well together internationally.
A key part of Cyprus's plan is to improve EU defence. They want to spend more money on defence. They also want member states to work together more. This is because Europe feels less safe. Supporting Ukraine is also very important. Cyprus will also try to reduce conflicts in unstable areas. They want solutions that respect each country’s borders.
Cyprus also wants to make the EU economy stronger. They want to improve the single market. This market helps Europe’s economy grow. They plan to make rules simpler for businesses. This will help companies grow. Better connections between countries will help the economy. Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament, is confident. She said, "Europe must respond with clarity and determination."
President Christodoulides believes in the EU. He hopes for a solution to Cyprus’s division. He said, "The future of Europe, our future, will ultimately be judged by our ability to act collectively." Cyprus’s six months in charge will be busy. They will discuss and make important decisions. Their success will depend on agreement among all 27 member states.