The European Council approved the first part of the conclusions of the October 23, 2025 Summit, reaching significant agreements on European defence and security, and setting as a priority the strengthening of Europe’s defence readiness by 2030. This decision comes in response to growing challenges and threats, with particular emphasis on Russia’s war against Ukraine, which was described in the conclusions as ‘an existential threat to the EU.’
During the Summit, the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, welcomed the strengthened European focus on Defence and Security, reaffirming Cyprus’ longstanding position in favour of enhancing the Union’s strategic autonomy and announcing plans to upgrade the country’s naval and air infrastructure through the SAFE Mechanism.
According to sources, the President noted that Cyprus is planning, through the SAFE Mechanism, to upgrade its naval and air infrastructure, thereby contributing to the strengthening of the European Union’s collective security, operational readiness, and the missions of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
The President also stressed that during the Cyprus EU Presidency, efforts will continue to ensure that the strengthening of Defence and Security remains at the top of the European agenda.
The same sources report that the President expressed his appreciation to the President of the European Commission, who presented the Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030, and highlighted three key points.
The first is that actors posing a threat to the security of any Member State cannot participate in any EU defence mechanism.
The second notes that although Cyprus is not a NATO member, it supports the strengthening of EU-NATO cooperation under the ‘Readiness 2030’ framework, provided that this cooperation is inclusive and fair, allowing all 27 Member States to benefit fully.
Finally, he referred to the 360° approach and the importance of ensuring the security and protection of all EU borders.