President Nikos Christodoulides has expressed the hope that the informal meeting of EU and regional leaders that took place in Cyprus on Thursday and Friday will be the beginning of a more consistent, more results-oriented dialogue between the EU and its partners.
In a post on X, he said this dialogue has a clear and shared objective, “a stronger European Union”.
“Hand in hand with a stronger, more stable region. And partnerships that deliver and endure. Cyprus, at the crossroads of three continents, will continue to act as a bridge. A bridge between the European Union and our wider region.
“A bridge that connects and delivers. Always consistent with our role as an enabler of security and stability. Because crises and challenges pave a path for opportunities. That is the path we are walking today,” he stressed.
On Friday, the leaders called for stronger European defence cooperation, faster energy independence and closer engagement with the Middle East, as instability in the region continues to affect Europe’s security and economy.
Speaking after the meeting, European Council President Antonio Costa said Cyprus’ hosting of the summit carried “important symbolism”, demonstrating the EU’s support for member states most affected by conflicts in the Middle East.
“Cyprus is a vital anchor of cooperation and European engagement in the region,” he said.
