Typos

Von der Leyen to President of Cyprus: Together We Will Navigate Troubled Political Waters

Published January 15, 2026, 17:26
Von der Leyen to President of Cyprus: Together We Will Navigate Troubled Political Waters

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, at the new port of Limassol, where they discussed cooperation during the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU. Von der Leyen emphasized that Cyprus, due to its geographical location, possesses unique expertise in dialogue and diplomacy, which will be invaluable in promoting the EU's agenda in 2026. President Christodoulides presented the priorities of the Cypriot Presidency, which include migration, climate change, the SAFE program, water security, the Multiannual Financial Framework, Social Cohesion, and the Eastern Mediterranean. He also expressed Cyprus's readiness for full integration into the Schengen Area. The discussion also focused on efforts to restart substantial negotiations on the Cyprus issue, with Ms. von der Leyen expressing her support and announcing the appointment of Johannes Hahn as the Commission's representative for Cyprus. In addition, the creation of a Firefighting Hub in Cyprus was discussed, which is a priority for the EU. Finally, the Commission President stated that the Action Plan for the Mediterranean is also a priority, emphasizing the importance of stability in the Middle East region and highlighting Cyprus's role in promoting the Mediterranean Pact.