President Christodoulides: EU Presidency is a National Mission

The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, emphasized that the Presidency of the Council of the EU is a national mission and priority for Cyprus. At a dinner at the Presidential Palace, he stated that joining the EU was the most significant development since 1960.

President Christodoulides explained that Cyprus's Presidency is different because the government has been working systematically for the past two years and that the participation of the entire Council of Ministers is necessary, under the coordination of the Deputy Minister for European Affairs.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the fact that Cyprus is one of the smallest member states is an advantage, as it facilitates avoiding national agendas and focusing on the European agenda. Cyprus's geographical location, close to the Middle East, is also a significant advantage.

President Christodoulides emphasized that Cyprus is the only member state under foreign occupation, which allows it to understand the situation in Ukraine. Also, the government has a clear European and Western orientation in its foreign policy.

Compared to 2012, Cyprus is no longer a 'one-issue' country. President Christodoulides is the first President elected without the support of the two major parties. Cyprus's economy has a growth rate of over 3%, unemployment is below 5%, and public debt is below 60%. Immigration has significantly decreased.

President Christodoulides stressed the need for a more autonomous European Union with greater deepening of integration.

Source: CYPE