Category: Cyprus News Agency

President Nikos Christodoulides described on Monday the interference with flights carrying EU Defence Ministers as ‘unacceptable’, saying that such behaviour also reflects a revisionist approach.

Speaking to journalists at the Presidential Palace following his meeting with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, María Ángela Holguín, the President was asked to comment on the interference with the flights of Defence Ministers travelling to Cyprus for the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers.

‘Such interference is unacceptable,’ he said. ‘There is absolutely no justification for it’, he added, noting that the fact that it involves aircraft from European Union member states, France, the Netherlands and Greece, ‘also demonstrates, if you like, a revisionist approach.’

President Christodoulides said he had spoken on Sunday evening with Cyprus’ Defence Minister and was due to meet later in the day with Greece’s Defence Minister, Nikos Dendias.

‘I have the impression that the issue will also be discussed at the Defence Ministers’ Council,’ he said, noting that, as far as he understood, the interference had not been limited to the aircraft carrying the Greek Defence Minister but had also affected the Defence Ministers of France and the Netherlands.

‘We expect the matter to be discussed at the Defence Ministers’ Council and, from there, we will consider what further action to take also with the EU’, he added.

Cyprus and France are expected to sign on Monday, in Nicosia, a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA).

According to CNA sources, the Cypriot and French Defence Ministers, Minister of Defence, Vasilis Palmas, and his French counterpart, Catherine Vautrin, will sign the agreement during a bilateral meeting on Monday afternoon at the Filoxenia Conference Centre, following the conclusion of the informal Foreign Affairs Council (Defence), which will be hosted in Nicosia as part of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, had announced during French President Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Nicosia in April that a SOFA agreement would be signed in June. He said that the agreement concerns hosting French forces on Cypriot territory for the purposes of humanitarian operations in the region.

Cyprus’ sustained presence in Central Asia creates opportunities for the business community in countries of significant geopolitical and economic importance, while this approach is also driven by clear political reasons related to our national issue, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement on Monday on the occasion of the conclusion of the Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos’ tour of the region.

According to the MFA, during the tour the minister visited Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. It noted that this was Kombos’ third visit to the region since 2024.

The tour was performed to strengthen the diplomatic footprint of the Republic of Cyprus in Central Asia, to deepen and develop bilateral relations with the countries of the region, and to promote the European Union’s relations with Central Asian states, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The Minister’s tour began with the first official visit by a Cypriot Foreign Minister to Tajikistan on June 5, followed by visits to Uzbekistan on June 6 and to Kyrgyzstan today, June 8.

During his visit to Tajikistan, the Foreign Minister was received by Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon and by the Speaker of the Tajikistan Lower House, Faizali Idizoda.

He also met with Tajikistan’s Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin with discussions focussing on deepening bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, as well as regional developments.

A Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of Higher Education and Research was signed with the Tajik Foreign Minister, establishing a framework for enhanced cooperation between the two sides on higher education, academic exchanges and scientific research.

During his visit to Uzbekistan on 6 June, the Cypriot Foreign Minister’s second visit to the country in two years, Kombos had a meeting with his counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov. The meeting covered prospects for further development of the bilateral cooperation framework, deepening cooperation within multilateral organisations, and regional and international issues of mutual interest. Ways to strengthen EU-Uzbekistan cooperation were also discussed.

On Monday 8 June, the Foreign Minister visited Kyrgyzstan where he was received in the capital Bishkek by President Sadyr Japarov and the Speaker of Parliament Marlen Mamataliev. The meetings examined ways to deepen both Cyprus-Kyrgyz bilateral relations and EU-Kyrgyz relations.

Kombos also met with his counterpart Zheenbek Kulubaev. The two Foreign Ministers signed a Cooperation Programme between the two Ministries of Foreign Affairs, which is expected to strengthen cooperation and exchanges between the two sides on matters of mutual interest.

During the visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kombos signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with the country’s Minister of Economy and Trade, Bakyt Sydykov. The Agreement is expected to contribute to the creation of a more predictable legal and tax framework for bilateral economic activities, facilitating and simultaneously boosting investment and business cooperation between the two countries, the statement said.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Central Asia region has emerged over the past two years as one of the priorities of the Republic of Cyprus’s foreign policy.

In this context, it said, “Cyprus’ sustained presence in the region creates opportunities for the business community in countries of significant geopolitical and economic value, while this approach is also guided by clear political reasons related to our national issue.”

A tangible result, the statement added, is the inclusion of specific references to the Cyprus issue in the joint declarations of the EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting in March 2025 and the EU-Central Asia Summit in April 2025, with explicit reference to respect for the independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states, as well as to United Nations Security Council Resolutions 541 (1983) and 550 (1984), which concern Cyprus exclusively.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

In 2025 the Secretary-General hosted two informal meetings on Cyprus, in March in Geneva and in July in New York, while a tripartite meeting with the Cyprus leaders was also held in late September, at the end of the UN General Assembly High Level Week. An informal meeting in broader format that was expected to take place before the end of 2025, is yet to be announced. María Angela Holguín, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is tasked to engage with the parties.

EU disburses nearly pound 2.8 billion to support Ukraine’s financial stability and reform efforts

The European Commission has released nearly pound 2.8 billion to Ukraine today to support its financing needs and maintain public administration, as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s war of aggression.

This is the seventh disbursement under the Ukraine Facility, the EU’s key instrument to support Ukraine’s recovery, reform agenda and progress towards EU membership. With this latest payment, total EU support provided under the Ukraine Plan reaches pound 29.5 billion, equivalent to almost 77% of the funding available under the Facility’s first pillar, which provides a direct support to the State budget

The disbursement follows Ukraine’s successful implementation of reforms across several strategic sectors, including public financial management, the judiciary, financial markets, human capital, business environment, energy, agriculture, critical raw materials, digitalisation, and green transition.

Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said: ‘Ukraine’s speed and commitment to delivering meaningful reforms has merited this payment, and we are now also paving the way for further progress in the accession negotiations.’

Ukraine submitted a partial payment request on 14 April. On 28 May, Member States the Council of the EU endorsed the Commission’s assessment that Ukraine had successfully fulfilled eleven reforms linked to this payment, together with three outstanding reforms from the fifth and sixth payments, as well as four reforms brought forward from future instalments.

More information on EU’s overall support to Ukraine is available in our factsheet.

(For more information: Guillaume Mercier – Tel. + 32 2 298 05 64; Yuliya Matsyk – Tel. +32 2 296 27 16)

EU and Kenya strengthen partnership

The European Union and Kenya are deepening their strategic partnership on trade, digital transformation and sustainable investment to drive mutual economic growth for the benefit of businesses and citizens on both sides. This reinforced cooperation reflects Kenya’s pivotal role as a key partner for the EU in Africa and at multilateral level.

These commitments were set out today in Brussels, where Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, welcomed President of the Republic of Kenya William Ruto.

As part of this cooperation under the Global Gateway, the EU and Kenya will invest in clean transport and trade facilitation along the strategic Northern Corridor in East Africa and in the roll-out of high-speed connectivity to over 3,000 public offices, schools, health centres and digital hubs across Kenya.

Discussions advanced cooperation under the EU-Kenya Strategic Dialogue across key priority areas and welcomed progress in the EU-Kenya data adequacy process, which would facilitate safe data flows between the partners and support digital trade and innovation. The EU noted the positive assessment so far and its intention to conclude the process as soon as possible.

Unlocking trade and business opportunities

The EU reaffirmed its strong commitment to the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement. Both the EU and Kenya stressed the importance of resolving outstanding trade issues and moving towards full implementation of the agreement, so that businesses in the EU and Kenya can benefit fully.

On digital policy, the EU proposed deepening cooperation, especially in artificial intelligence, digital identity and secure connectivity.

Finally, the EU also highlighted its reinforced investment in Kenya under the Global Gateway strategy. In this context, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen made a series of announcements:

pound 17 million to support the transformation of the strategic Northern Corridor, the busiest in East Africa stretching from Mombasa to Kisangani, into a modern, clean trade and transport route. EU funding will support the development of cold chains for fresh products, the shift from air to sea transport and the simplification of trade rules.

pound 15 million for the aerial expansion of Kenya’s national fiber-optic network, extending high-speed connectivity in underserved parts of the country.

pound 12 million to advance the digitalisation of land registration, allowing households, farmers and businesses to prove ownership.

pound 10 million to support the Digital Transformation Centre in Kenya which supports the digital transformation, including artificial intelligence and creating an enabling policy environment for digital trade and investment to drive innovation, skills and jobs.

pound 16 million for refugee camps to transition into integrated communities, recognising Kenya’s stabilising role in a fragile region and its commitment to hosting refugees.

Background

The European Union and Kenya have a deep and long-standing partnership. Today, the EU is the largest market for Kenya’s exports. It is also a major partner in regional security, investment and development cooperation.

The EU and Kenya concluded negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement on 19 June 2023. The agreement was signed on 18 December 2023. The European Parliament gave its consent on 29 February 2024.

On 7 May 2024, the European Union and Kenya launched an adequacy dialogue to facilitate the free flow of personal data from the EU to Kenya. This would help boost digital trade and give Kenya access to Europe’s growing data economy, expected to be worth over pound 800 billion by 2025.

On 18 March 2026, the EU and Kenya launched the EU-Kenya Digital Dialogue. This was an important step in strengthening cooperation on digital policy and technological innovation. The dialogue focuses on shared priorities, including telecommunications and digital networks infrastructure, artificial intelligence innovation and ecosystems, and eGovernance including Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).

The EU and Kenya have a shared interest in building resilient value chains and strengthening strategic autonomy in critical sectors. Kenya’s innovation ecosystem and its role as a regional logistics and financial hub make it a natural anchor for Global Gateway in East Africa.

For more information

EU-Kenya relations

EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement

EU-Kenya Digital Dialogue

Kenya – International Partnerships – European Commission

Quote(s)

Kenya is a dynamic and strategic partner for the EU. Today, we agreed to take our cooperation further, creating jobs, driving innovation, and supporting sustainable growth. Our focus is on delivering concrete results for both EU and Kenyan businesses and citizens.

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy

With Kenya, we are investing in new opportunities for local communities as well as for European companies. The strategic Northern Corridor will increase trade and improve the region’s connection to global markets. High-speed connectivity will open up new access to education and help improve basic local services. That is what Global Gateway is about: strategic partnerships delivering concrete benefits for our partners and for Europe alike.

Jozef Síkela, Commissioner for International Partnerships

(For more information: Thomas Regnier – Tel.: +32 2 299 10 99; Guillaume Mercier – Tel.: +32 2 298 05 64; Nika Blazevic – Tel.: +32 2 299 27 17; Jennifer Sanchez Da Silva – Tel.: +32 2 295 83 16)

Almost 41,000 18-year-olds set to experience Europe thanks to DiscoverEU

Today, the European Commission reveals the results of the DiscoverEU March 2026 round, an initiative under the Erasmus+ programme. 40,912 young people aged 18 will receive a travel pass to explore the continent’s diversity, learn about its cultural heritage and history, and connect with people from every corner of Europe. Successful applicants will travel alone or in a group of up to five, mainly by rail, between July 2026 and September 2027.

Glenn Micallef, Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, said: ‘A DiscoverEU pass is not just a ticket but an invitation to experience the cultural richness and beauty of Europe firsthand. To the thousands of young people selected today, I would like to say: Europe is waiting for you. Pack your curiosity, bring your ambition, and turn this trip into a story worth telling.’

This application round was open to young people born between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008 from EU Member States as well as those from Erasmus+ associated countries and attracted 220,501 applicants. DiscoverEU also includes a learning dimension, with pre-departure information trainings and meet-ups throughout Europe. Participants can join the #DiscoverEU Official Facebook Group to connect with the DiscoverEU community. More information on DiscoverEU is available in the dedicated factsheet.

Since its launch in 2018, more than 2 million young people have applied for travel passes over the course of fourteen DiscoverEU application rounds.

(For more information: Eva Hrncirova – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Eirini Zarkadoula – Tel.: +32 2 295 70 65)

Commission calls for equal pay rules to become a reality across the EU

On 7 June, the deadline for transposing the Pay Transparency Directive across the EU was reached. Fairness is not just a value. It is also an economic strength: the countries that champion gender equality are also the most competitive. EU treaties are clear that equal work deserves equal pay, regardless of whether it is performed by a woman or a man. Furthermore, nearly nine out of ten Europeans agree that it is unacceptable for women to be paid less than men for the same work.

Yet, the gender pay gap persists across the Union, with the latest Eurostat data showing that, on average, women’s gross hourly earnings were 11.1% below those of men in the EU. This is due to a complex range of factors, such as the undervaluation of roles traditionally occupied by women and gender stereotypes which have an impact on education, hiring, promotions and wages.

In force since 2023, the Pay Transparency Directive helps make the right to equal pay a reality. The Directive helps employers assess whether their pay structures comply with the principle of equal pay in practice, and supports workers by establishing a clear framework for the application of the concept of ‘work of equal value’ based on criteria that include skills, effort, responsibility, and working conditions. Furthermore, it will help employers attract and retain talent by establishing clearer and fairer remuneration practices. Pay transparency will empower workers and help tackle discrimination, whilst giving European companies a competitive edge.

Since the preparation stages of the proposal, the Commission has worked closely with Member States and key stakeholders to promote equal pay. After the adoption of the proposal in 2023, the Commission has been supporting implementation of the Directive with more than pound 3.8 million dedicated under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme (CERV) to support pay transparency measures in Member States, as well as a further pound 5 million under the recently closed 2026 call for proposals to promote gender equality. The Commission will continue to support national authorities, companies and workers to make equal pay a reality across our Union.

(For more information: Eva Hrncírová – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73)

Statement by Commissioner Várhelyi ahead of the World Food Safety Day

World Food Safety Day is a moment to recognise what Europe has built: one of the safest food systems in the world – and we are making it even stronger.

Our high food safety standards are built on strong, science-based rules, rigorous controls and close cooperation between food business operators and public authorities. This framework ensures that the food that reaches European consumers is as safe as it can be. Every day, thousands of professionals across the EU work to keep this system functioning effectively. When risks are identified, unsafe products are swiftly removed from the market, often before they ever reach supermarket shelves.

The EU is one of the world’s largest importers of food and our consumers enjoy a wide variety of products from across the world. As they do so, they can rest assured that our standards do not stop at the EU borders. Our strict rules on food and feed hygiene, our high standards for animal and plant health, apply to all products put on our market – whether produced in Europe or not. Import controls are in place to check that our standards are met, and non-compliant products are rejected before they can enter our Union and reach our consumers.

Upholding Europe’s high food safety standards is an intrinsic part of our food security. This is what our citizens expect, and deserve.

Since the beginning of this mandate, I have worked to strengthen every link in this food chain and ensure that our world-class food safety system remains robust, effective and fit for the future. I have increased controls on imports and taken firm action to prevent unsafe goods from entering the market. The message is clear: if a product is sold in the European Union, it must meet European standards.

This protects consumers. It ensures fairness for our farmers, producers and food businesses. And it strengthens trust in the food on our shelves and on our tables. We will continue working tirelessly and in coordination with Member States and our partners across the EU to protect the food safety excellence that our citizens rightly expect.

(For more information: Eva Hrncírová – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73)

Commissioner Dombrovskis visits Finland to discuss competitiveness, simplification and security

Valdis Dombrovskis, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity; Implementation and Simplification, is in Finland today and tomorrow for meetings with Finnish authorities, policymakers, academics and business representatives to discuss competitiveness, simplification, security, innovation and the conclusions of the European Semester, presented last week.

Today, the Commissioner delivered the opening speech at the Future Circular Collider Week seminar, where he highlighted the importance of science, innovation and strategic investment for Europe’s long-term competitiveness. He also visited the Recovery and Resilience Facility-supported Helen Eiranranta heat pump plant in Helsinki, alongside the Mayor of Helsinki, Daniel Sazonov. This project contributes to Finland’s clean energy transition and efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

During his visit, Commissioner Dombrovskis will also hold meetings with Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, Riikka Purra, Finland’s Minister of Finance, and Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland, with discussions focusing on the economic outlook and policy priorities, competitiveness, simplification, support for Ukraine and the EU’s Eastern Border Regions, current geopolitical developments and security. The Commissioner will also exchange views with members of the Finnish Parliament’s Grand Committee on these issues.

In addition, he will visit IQM Quantum Computers, one of Europe’s leading quantum technology companies and one of Finland’s most prominent deep-tech success stories, and exchange views with Finnish business leaders on strengthening Europe’s innovation capacity and economic resilience.

(For more information: Balazs Ujvari – Tel.: +32 2 295 45 78; Francisca Marçal Santos – Tel.: +32 2 299 72 36)

Commissioner Šefcovic hosts Implementation Dialogue on EU Customs Reform

Today, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefcovic will host an Implementation Dialogue in Brussels, which will focus on the rollout of the newly agreed reform of the EU Customs Union.

The dialogue will bring together industry and trade representatives, as well as business and consumer associations from a diverse range of sectors, such as, textile, food, automotive, logistics and online marketplaces. They will discuss how to ensure an efficient delivery, user-friendliness, and effective rollout of the reform for traders, authorities, and consumers alike. Particularly, the dialogue will focus on trade security, supply chain resilience and a data-driven customs environment, in the context of the new EU Customs Data Hub.

With the legislative foundations now in place, the dialogue will feed into the reform’s practical success, to facilitate the transition to the new customs framework, aligning implementation with realities on the ground.

This dialogue follows the agreement reached between the European Parliament and Council on 26 March 2026, on the Commission’s proposal to deliver a landmark reform of the EU Customs Union. The reform is designed to simplify trade, bolster security, and future-proof customs operations in an era of surging e-commerce and digital transformation. At the core of the reform is the new EU Customs Authority, which will centralise coordination across all Member States through an EU Customs Data Hub, a single digital gateway for all customs procedures. The reform also introduces a revamped Trust and Check system, rewarding compliant businesses with faster clearances, while strengthening the EU’s ability to enforce safety, security, and regulatory standards at its borders.

Implementation dialogues underscore the Commission’s efforts to promote the EU’s competitiveness by directly engaging stakeholders in policy implementation. A summary of the conclusions from today’s dialogue will be available online.

(For more information: Olof Gill – Tel.: +32 2 296 59 66; Paula Clara Ritter-Moschtz – Tel.: +32 2 296 40 83)

Commissioner Šuica hosts dialogue on scaling up renewable energy investments across the Mediterranean

Tomorrow, Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, will host an Implementation Dialogue in Brussels to discuss how to foster investment from the private sector in renewable energy across the Mediterranean.

The Mediterranean region holds vast untapped energy renewable potential – 2,300 GW, representing over twice the EU’s current capacity – with solar and wind costs 30-40% lower than in Europe. Strengthened cooperation will help unlock this potential while addressing common shared challenges between the EU and its southern Mediterranean partners, such as rising energy prices, dependence on fossil fuels, lack of competitiveness, supply-chain vulnerabilities and climate change.

The dialogue will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and financial stakeholders, including Mediterranean countries, to join forces in scaling up investments in energy projects in the region. The EU will support these efforts with the upcoming Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy and Clean-Tech Cooperation (T-MED) Initiative. This flagship initiative under the Pact for the Mediterranean is designed to strengthen energy collaboration between EU and the southern Mediterranean partners.

The discussions will focus on three key areas: removing investment barriers such as regulatory hurdles and financial risks, making the initiatives under T-MED attractive to private investors by improving incentives and transparency, and ensuring that all projects align with the EU’s broader goals for competitiveness and energy security.

Implementation dialogues underscore the Commission’s efforts to promote the EU’s competitiveness by directly engaging stakeholders in policy implementation. Insights from tomorrow’s discussions will shape the development and rollout of T-MED Initiative, helping the EU and its regional partners unlock the vast potential of solar, wind and green hydrogen energy.

(For more information: Guillaume Mercier – Tel.: +32 2 298 05 64; Luca Dilda – Tel.: +32 2 295 21 53)

Commissioner Kos visits Ukraine to support reforms towards EU accession

Today, Commissioner Kos is in Kyiv. Her visit will focus on supporting Ukraine’s EU accession reforms, wartime recovery, and the strengthening of political and societal support for European integration.

Commissioner Kos met with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and senior members of the government to discuss reform progress and EU support priorities, including preparedness for the coming winter. Commissioner Kos also held meetings with the Speaker of Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, First Deputy Speaker of Rada Oleksandr Korniyenko, chairs of parliamentary committees, and leaders of political factions to stress the importance of maintaining broad political consensus on EU-related reforms.

The Commissioner will deliver a keynote speech at the public event on ‘Ukraine’s Accession: How to Deliver Europe’s Next Enlargement’ and meet with women leaders to discuss how women are shaping the political landscape.

Audiovisual material of the visit will be available on EBS.

(For more information: Guillaume Mercier – Tel. + 32 2 298 05 64; Yuliya Matsyk – Tel. +32 2 296 27 16)

Commissioner Hansen joins G7 Agriculture Ministers to discuss fertilisers amid geopolitical tensions

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, will participate in today’s extraordinary meeting of G7 Agriculture Ministers to discuss the impacts of increased geopolitical tensions on agricultural markets, and particularly, fertilisers.

The meeting will include analysis from experts from UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), and OECD on the medium and long-term risks for farmers stemming from the crisis in the Middle East. These risks have a direct impact on fertiliser price volatility, non-road fuel shortages, and supply chain bottlenecks – issues that directly affect European farmers. Through closer cooperation with G7 partners, the Commission is taking steps to ease the pressure on farmers by making fertiliser costs more stable.

This meeting aligns with the EU’s commitment to global food security and sustainable agriculture, while addressing the immediate threats posed by fertiliser market instability. Maintaining a regular dialogue is key to enhance market transparency and stability, and to keep food and fertiliser supply chains functioning.

To secure Europe’s fertiliser supply and food security, Commissioner Hansen put forward measures under the Fertiliser Action Plan last month. The Plan combines immediate support measures aimed at supporting affordability and security of supply, with longer-term action to strengthen domestic fertiliser production, improve supply resilience and accelerate the transition to bio-based, low-carbon and circular fertilisers.

European defence is not a choice but a strategic necessity, said Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, in his opening remarks during the first session of the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers on Tuesday, adding that the European Union’s credibility as a security actor depends on our ability to act with unity, determination, and a long-term strategic vision.

According to the Minister of Defence, Nicosia serves as a vivid reminder that peace, security, and respect for international law are not self-evident, but require constant vigilance, unity, and political will.

‘We are in a period of heightened geopolitical challenges and evolving threats. War on the European continent, instability in our European neighbourhood and in the Middle East, hybrid threats, as well as developments that challenge the fundamental principles of the international legal order, make it necessary to further strengthen European defence readiness and our strategic cohesion,’ he continued.

‘European defence is not an option, but a strategic necessity. The European Union’s credibility as a security actor depends on our ability to act with unity, determination, and a long-term strategic vision. I am confident that today’s consultations will be substantive, with a clear focus and results that benefit the security of the Union and its citizens,’ he concluded.

For her part, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, said it is important that the EU Ministers meet in Cyprus, adding that ‘it is important that we also show full solidarity with Cyprus and its people’.

She also welcomed the new Hungarian, Danish and Bulgarian defence ministers, who took over their duties recently.

‘We have a busy agenda today. We have three discussion items. First on support to Ukraine and then maritime security and also a working lunch on the European security strategy. I hope that we can cover all of them’, she concluded.

Cyprus and Kyrgyzstan signed a Memorandum of Understanding on political cooperation on Monday, with Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos describing the development as a “pivotal moment” that could create new momentum in trade, investment and broader bilateral relations.

Speaking after talks with his Kyrgyz counterpart Zheenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek, Kombos welcomed the signing of the MoU and highlighted the signing of an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation between the two countries.

“This, I believe, is a pivotal moment. It’s an opportunity to create a momentum in terms of investment and trade, and it’s an extremely important development in the history of our bilateral relations,” Kombos said.

The Cypriot Minister added that the agreements would contribute to establishing a more predictable, transparent legal and fiscal framework for businesses and investors and could act as the accelerator for economic growth.

Kombos is visiting Kyrgyzstan as part of a regional tour of Central Asia that also included Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. According to the Foreign Ministry, the visits aim to promote and further upgrade Cyprus’ relations with countries in the region.

Describing Kyrgyzstan as the final stop of his Central Asian tour, Kombos said the visit demonstrated Cyprus’ commitment to strengthening political dialogue and cooperation with Bishkek.

“It is the first time I am visiting your country, and this is just the second ever official visit of a Minister of Foreign Affairs from Cyprus in 34 years of diplomatic relations,” he noted.

The Minister also congratulated Kyrgyzstan on its recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, describing it as “a great diplomatic and political achievement” and “a recognition of commitment to international law and to the principles underpinning the UN Charter.”

He said Cyprus looked forward to close cooperation with Kyrgyzstan at the Security Council, particularly in promoting respect for the UN Charter and international law.

The two Ministers reviewed the state of bilateral relations and discussed ways to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest, with particular emphasis on strengthening institutional contacts and maintaining regular political dialogue at both technical and political levels.

Kombos said he had invited his counterpart to visit Cyprus as part of efforts to increase high-level exchanges between the two countries.

The Cypriot Foreign Minister also noted that Cyprus has offered 46 scholarships to Kyrgyz citizens over the past three years and intends to continue creating opportunities for students from Kyrgyzstan to study in Cyprus.

A significant part of the talks focused on relations between the European Union and Kyrgyzstan. Kombos reiterated Cyprus’ support for deeper engagement between the EU and Central Asia, a region he described as having growing strategic importance in areas such as connectivity, trade, transport diversification and energy security.

He added that they exchanged views on the prospects for further cooperation under the EU-Kyrgyzstan framework, including the enhanced partnership and cooperation agreement and also cooperation under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+).

“The EU is looking towards this region and its members. So does the Republic of Cyprus, with openness in dialogue, transparency in facilitative conditionality and active engagement,” he said.

He added that cooperation should remain firmly grounded in the principles agreed between the EU and Central Asian states, including full respect for international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

During the meeting, Kombos also briefed his Kyrgyz counterpart on recent developments in the Cyprus issue.

In concluding remarks, Kombos said the discussions reaffirmed the importance of maintaining open channels of communication and advancing practical cooperation, stressing that Cyprus remains committed to constructive engagement with Kyrgyzstan both bilaterally and within the wider framework of EU-Central Asia relations.

Bishkek express concerns over EU sanctions

According to the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry, discussions between the two Ministers focused significantly on relations between the Kyrgyz Republic and the European Union, including cooperation during Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026.

The Kyrgyz side expressed appreciation for the European Union’s support in implementing socio-economic reforms, strengthening democratic institutions, developing human capital and advancing sustainable development initiatives in the country.

At the same time, Kulubaev raised concerns over the intensification of the EU’s sanctions policy, warning of the potential adverse effects that unilateral restrictive measures could have on Kyrgyzstan’s trade, economic and financial development. According to the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry, Kulubaev stressed that Kyrgyzstan opposes the politicisation of international economic and commercial relations while remaining committed to constructive dialogue aimed at identifying mutually beneficial solutions.

The Kyrgyz Foreign Minister reaffirmed Bishkek’s readiness to further expand cooperation with Cyprus in the fields of trade, investment, education, culture and humanitarian affairs. The two sides also highlighted the tourism potential of both countries and expressed interest in exchanging expertise and promoting joint initiatives in the sector.

According to the announcement, the Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining political dialogue and enhancing practical cooperation both bilaterally and within the framework of Kyrgyzstan’s partnership with the European Union.

Following the talks, the two sides signed a Cooperation Programme between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus and the Kyrgyz Republic for the period 2027-2028, further strengthening the institutional framework for bilateral cooperation.

The upgrading of cooperation with France gives the Republic of Cyprus greater strategic depth and reinforces its role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, said Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, following the signing of the SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) between the Republic of Cyprus and France, on the sidelines of the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Nicosia on Monday.

On her part, French Defence Minister, Catherine Vautrin assured of France’s unwavering solidarity with Cyprus whenever its interests and security are threatened.

In remarks following the signing of the agreement, Palmas said that during the meeting with his French counterpart, they reaffirmed the long-standing strong ties that bind the two countries and highlighted aspects of their cooperation, which is grounded in a solid foundation of mutual trust and shared objectives.

He added that this cooperation is reflected in coordination on regional security issues, as well as in the development of strategic partnerships in areas including defence and security.

He added that the cooperation between the two countries in the procurement of defence systems, as well as their joint participation in the four-party cooperation mechanism with Greece and Italy, falls within this same framework.

He also said that the close cooperation between Cyprus and France is also reflected both at the operational level, through the regular presence and activities of French forces in the region, and at the institutional level through joint initiatives within the framework of the European Union and other international frameworks.

‘A milestone in this journey is the Cyprus-France Strategic Partnership Agreement, which was signed last December in Paris by the Presidents of the two countries and reflects the progress of a constantly evolving bilateral relationship,’ he further noted.

According to Palmas, during the meeting the two Ministers reviewed developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, adding that he had the opportunity to once again thank his French counterpart for France’s immediate response and the deployment of forces within the territorial waters of the Republic of Cyprus during the recent crisis in the region last March.

‘The highlight of our meeting was the signing of an agreement on cooperation in defence matters and the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between our countries, as already jointly announced by the Presidents of both countries,” he said.

“This agreement establishes a modern and comprehensive framework for cooperation in the fields of defence and security, regulating the rights and obligations of the forces of both countries when they are on the territory of the other,’ he explained.

‘At the political and geostrategic level, the deepening of our cooperation with France reaffirms the Republic of Cyprus’s commitment to partnerships grounded in shared principles and values, respect for international law, and the promotion of security and stability in the wider region,” the Defence Minister noted.

“The upgrading of our cooperation gives the Republic of Cyprus increased strategic depth and strengthens its role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean,” he pointed out.

“In any case, as we have repeatedly stated and demonstrated, the Republic of Cyprus aims to consolidate security and peace in the region. With this in mind, we will continue to invest in partnerships and initiatives that promote constructive dialogue, strengthen security, and create the conditions for sustainable peace in the Eastern Mediterranean,’ Palmas concluded.

French Defence Minister, Catherine Vautrin, started by congratulating Cyprus on its strong Presidency and also expressed thanks ‘for the quality of our discussions and the prospects for strengthening our armed forces to meet the many challenges we face in Europe.’

She also referred to President Nikos Christodoulides’ visit to Paris last December, during which the French and Cypriot presidents signed a strategic partnership between the two countries, elevating their bilateral relationship, while just a few weeks ago, President Emmanuel Macron was in Cyprus.

‘Whilst our bilateral relationship covers many areas of cooperation, that relating to defence has been particularly significant for many years,’ continued the French Minister.

‘Cyprus is a key base for conducting our military operations in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. The ports of Larnaca and Limassol host around thirty French port calls each year – 21 so far since 1 January – and the cooperation between our navies is to be commended’, she further noted, adding that Cypriot and French naval forces train together regularly, as in the Argonaut and Eunomia exercises, ‘which demonstrate our shared commitment to strengthening maritime security, freedom of navigation and our collective ability to respond to crises in this strategic region.’

‘But our defence cooperation is not limited to excellent naval cooperation. It also extends to the land domain, where, very recently, during the visit of the amphibious Tonnerre helicopter carrier, ties were strengthened between our forces in the areas of land mobility and operational readiness,’ she continued.

She added that in the air domain, Cypriot infrastructure provides an ideal framework for French logistical support, as well as surveillance and air defence capabilities that are so valuable to French deployed forces.

In terms of capabilities, she said, France supports the modernisation of Cypriot forces. ‘Our discussions today have, in fact, focused on this very subject. We share with Cyprus a common vision of European defence centred on strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy,’ she added.

‘I would like to assure you of France’s unwavering solidarity with Cyprus, a member of the European Union, whenever Cyprus’s interests and security are threatened. As you saw, on 3 March, a navy frigate began its deployment to support the island’s air defence, and the French aeronautical team, alongside Dutch, Spanish and Italian frigates, was redeployed to the eastern Mediterranean to ensure the defence of Cyprus. This is our illustration of what European defence is all about,’ she underlined.

‘That is why I am truly delighted to have signed, just a few minutes ago, together with Vasilis (Palmas), this agreement on the status of our forces, which will streamline cooperation between our armed forces. This agreement is not an end in itself; it is a step towards strengthening military cooperation between our two countries. Thank you, dear Vasilis, for this show of trust, and I have no doubt that we will continue to work together in the service of our countries, in the service of Europe, and of course in the service of peace,’ Vautrin concluded.

The meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin is underway at the Presidential Palace on Monday morning.

Holguin arrived at the Presidential Palace shortly before 9:00 a.m.

At 3:00 p.m. she is expected to meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman.

This is Holguin’s second visit to Cyprus this year, following her visit in January, when she held a joint meeting with President Christodoulides and Erhurman at the residence of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative, in the buffer zone near the old Nicosia airport.

Holguin will be on the island for one week.

Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou said that approximately pound 800 million is expected to be allocated to the Republic of Cyprus for the 2028-2034 period specifically for the policy areas covered by the Funds, such as migration, security and border management, underscoring the EU’s emphasis on these sectors.

At the same time, Deputy Minister for Migration and International Protection Dr. Nikolas Ioannides said that that Cyprus must ensure not only the preservation but also the increase of funds allocated for migration.

The ?inisters were addressing on Monday the 4th Monitoring Committee for the Home Affairs Funds held in Nicosia.

Ioannou said the Committees play a crucial role in effectively overseeing the implementation of the Funds’ programmes and in the proper planning, coordination and programming of the resources allocated to Cyprus under the Home Affairs Funds.

The Directorate of European Funds at the Interior Ministry, he explained, advances implementation of both European and national policies through strategic planning, as reflected in the relevant programmes decided at European and national levels. A core priority for the Directorate remains optimal utilisation and maximum absorption of the funds provided by the European Commission to Cyprus, said Ioannou.

Regarding the 2021-2027 programming period, Ioannou said the European Commission has approved a total allocation of pound 304 million to Cyprus so far – an increase of more than 70% compared with the previous programming period. With national co-financing included, the total for the current period already amounts to pound 375 million.

In implementation of the current programming period’s actions, he added, 95 projects have been completed or are underway, with total committed funds amounting to pound 271 million.

Equally significant, Ioannou noted, is the Commission’s approval of an additional pound 98 million for projects addressing effective management of migration. With the contribution of national resources, the total additional amount reaches pound 105 million, he remarked.

Consequently, for the current programming period the total approved amount for Cyprus stands at pound 480 million, Ioannou said.

Referring to the work of the Directorate of European Funds, he said it has taken on additional responsibilities beyond its core duties. These include signing and implementing a grant agreement directly with the European Commission to deliver the ambitious projects for the ‘Limnes’ Reception Centre and the Pre-Removal Centre in the Menogeia area, as well as coordinating Cyprus’s preparations for implementation of the EU’s National Action Plan under the Pact on Migration and Asylum, which comes into force on 12 June 2026.

The Directorate has already allocated the Pact funds to programme projects to meet pressing migration needs and fulfil obligations arising from the Pact, said Ioannou.

Ioannou reiterated that the estimated pound 800 million for 2028-2034, earmarked for migration, security and border management, highlights the EU’s prioritisation of these policy areas.

On his part, Ioannides, said that Cyprus must ensure not only the preservation but also the increase of funds allocated for migration, with the greater part of expenditures covered by European financing.

In his address, Ioannides said the session provides a substantive opportunity to review programme progress, the use of European resources and the practical outcomes of projects being implemented. For the Deputy Ministry, he added, the Home Affairs Funds are a key tool for strengthening the asylum, reception, migration and return system.

Cyprus, as a frontline member state, has increased and ongoing needs in these areas, Dr. Ioannides stressed, noting that European funding plays a decisive role in turning these needs into concrete interventions with measurable results.

Dr. Ioannides said that two significant interventions for the national reception system where scheduled to be presented at the conference, the construction of the Reception Centre and the Pre-Removal Centre at ‘Limnes,’ as well as the upgrade of the Pournara First Reception, Sorting, Accommodation and Identification Centre (FRONTEX-style First Reception Centre).

Regarding the ‘Limnes’ project he said, construction of the Reception Centre with a capacity of 1,000 people is underway and is expected to be completed in September of this year; it will substantially enhance the capacity for dignified accommodation of asylum seekers and help relieve pressure on urban areas. At the same time, the establishment of the Pre-Removal Centre, which has already begun operation, strengthens the capacity for more organised management of return procedures, he added.

Similarly, Ioannides said, the upgrade of the Pournara Reception, Sorting, Accommodation and Identification Centre is an important intervention to adapt the national reception system to new requirements, as procedures provided for by the EU’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum will be implemented at the Centre.

The transmission of European Central Bank (ECB) interest rate changes to the Cypriot banking market remains weaker than in most Eurozone countries, according to a new analysis by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) accompanying April 2026 interest rate data.

The analysis shows that Cypriot banks pass on ECB interest rate changes to depositors, and in some cases borrowers, to a lesser extent than their European peers, with the largest divergence recorded in deposit rates, which remain the lowest in the Eurozone.

Lowest deposit rates in the Eurozone

According to the CBC, deposit rates in Cyprus now represent the most significant deviation from the Eurozone average. During the ECB’s monetary tightening cycle, Cypriot banks transferred a smaller share of interest rate increases to depositors compared with most euro area countries. Likewise, the adjustment during the recent period of rate cuts has also been more limited.

This trend is particularly evident in new term deposits by households and businesses, where Cyprus records one of the weakest levels of monetary policy transmission in the Eurozone.

Indicatively, the average interest rate on new household term deposits with a maturity of up to one year stood at 1.20% in April, remaining significantly below the Eurozone median of around 1.8%.

Mortgage lending closer to the Eurozone average

The picture differs on the lending side. The CBC finds that the transmission of ECB interest rate changes to mortgage loans is generally in line with Eurozone levels.

However, the pass-through of both interest rate increases and the recent rate cuts to business loans remains weaker than in other euro area countries, highlighting continuing structural characteristics of the Cypriot banking market that affect the monetary policy transmission mechanism.

Borrowing costs continue to ease

The analysis accompanies the April interest rate statistics, which show a further easing in borrowing costs.

The average interest rate on new housing loans fell to 3.92% in April from 4.14% in March, while the corresponding rate on new business loans of up to pound 1 million declined to 4.63%.

Despite the reduction in lending rates, the CBC notes that the Cypriot market continues to differ from the rest of the Eurozone, particularly on the deposit side, where the gap with European averages remains significant.

The report also recalls that total private sector deposits declined in April, while the annual growth rate of lending slowed, developments that had already been highlighted by the Central Bank earlier this month.