Category: Cyprus News Agency

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus will organise, within the framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, a Conference entitled “Mosquito-Borne Diseases Conference”, which will take place on June 10, 2026, in Nicosia.

“The conference is taking place at a particularly important time for public health in Europe, as mosquito-borne diseases constitute a growing challenge that requires enhanced preparedness, surveillance and coordinated European action,” the Ministry stresses.

The aim of the conference is to exchange scientific knowledge and best practices between member states, European and international organisations and experts, focusing on epidemiological surveillance, prevention, preparedness and response, mosquito control and innovative approaches to vector control.

The conference will present the epidemiological picture of mosquito-borne diseases in Europe, the experience of member states from recent incidents, the challenges of mosquito surveillance and control, as well as Cyprus’ response regarding the Aedes aegypti mosquito.

In addition, the conference will discuss the need to strengthen coordination and joint actions at EU level, information exchange and collective European preparedness against cross-border public health threats related to vector-borne diseases and climate change.

Concluding, the Ministry of Health underlines that strengthening prevention, preparedness, resilience of health systems and cross-sectoral cooperation is a key priority of the Cyprus Presidency in the field of public health and health security.

Europe must turn its commitments into real change at sea by enforcing laws designed to protect the ocean, Oceana said on World Ocean Day, noting that the European Union has a larger maritime area than land territory.

In a press release, Oceana called for urgent action to restore the health and abundance of the ocean, marking this year’s UN theme for World Ocean Day, ‘Reimagine’.

The organisation said the ocean can recover if there is a fundamental shift in behaviour. Instead of increasing pressure on marine resources to make up for their decline, Oceana urged decision-makers to allow nature to rebuild what has been damaged and to effectively protect what remains in good condition for future generations.

‘Reimagining our relationship with the ocean means giving it a break – halting destruction and letting ecosystems recover,’ said Vera Coelho, Oceana’s Executive Director and Vice-President in Europe.

She added that ‘a healthy ocean is not a luxury’, but essential for people and the planet, as it provides food, sustains millions of livelihoods, supplies clean energy and protects communities from the worst impacts of climate change.

Oceana set out five urgent priorities for governments to restore the ocean’s health and abundance. These include enforcing laws aimed at protecting the ocean and ensuring sustainable human uses, effectively protecting and restoring marine habitats, keeping fishing within sustainable limits so fish populations can recover, increasing transparency at sea and ending impunity for illegal activities, and stopping pollution at its source.

According to the organisation, human pressure has pushed marine ecosystems to the brink, from depleted fish stocks to damaged habitats and rising pollution. However, it said that science-based and tested solutions already exist and have been part of legislation for years or even decades.

‘Preserving marine ecosystems and ensuring prosperous livelihoods in the long term go hand in hand. It is not a choice between the two,’ Coelho said.

She added that Europe’s challenge is no longer a lack of legislation, but implementation, ‘turning commitments into tangible change at sea’.

Coelho noted that the EU has more ocean than land, with 5.37 million square kilometres of maritime area compared with 4.22 million square kilometres of land territory, saying that the ocean must be given the attention its scale and value deserve.

Transition to cleaner transport, the future course of decarbonisation of the sector, shipping, as well as the adoption of Council Conclusions on the EU Ports Strategy were on the agenda of the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Transport) which concluded Monday in Luxembourg, under the presidency of the Cyprus Minister of Transport, Communications and Works, Alexis Vafeades and the Shipping Deputy Minister, Marina Hadjimanolis.

The Minister of Transport said in the press conference that under the Cyprus Presidency emphasis was placed on promoting Europe’s competitiveness, resilience and strategic autonomy across all sectors, including transport.

He pointed out that the discussions highlighted the commitment to promoting cleaner and smarter transport, strengthening strategic connectivity and supply chains, as well as upgrading the role of ports and maritime industries as key pillars of trade, energy, and security.

The Minister also referred to the presentation of the progress Report on the proposal for a Regulation on Clean Corporate Vehicles, which is part of the broader automotive package.

He explained that the proposal aims to accelerate the transition to zero- and low-emission vehicles in corporate fleets, which represent a significant share of new registrations in the European Union.

He noted that the progress Report, reflecting the work carried out under the Cyprus Presidency, will guide the further advancement of the regulation in this important area.

Decarbonisation of the transport sector

A significant part of the work was also devoted to an exchange of views on the decarbonisation of transport beyond 2030. As the Minister stated, the discussion focused on how emissions reductions in the sector can be achieved while ensuring Europe’s competitiveness, affordability, resilience, and security of supply.

He recalled that transport accounts for approximately one third of total greenhouse gas emissions in the EU and that, unlike other sectors, emissions have continued to increase in recent decades.

In this context, he stressed the importance of developing clean technologies, building the necessary infrastructure, and deploying renewable and alternative fuels across all modes of transport.

The Minister also referred to two Commission initiatives signed on the margins of the Council. The first concerns Automated Driving Corridors and Testing Fields, with the participation of 17 member states, including Cyprus, aiming to accelerate the development of automated driving technologies.

The second concerns the European Transport Corridors initiative, supported by 10 Member States, which aims to accelerate the deployment of charging infrastructure for zero-emission trucks along the TEN-T.

At the same time, the Council adopted Conclusions on the EU Ports Strategy. According to the Minister, the decision sends a strong political message on the strategic importance of European ports for the Union’s economy, security, and resilience.

The Minister described the Council as the culmination of the work of the Cyprus Presidency in the field of transport, stressing that over the past six months progress was achieved on issues related to clean mobility, connectivity, transport network resilience, and the development of a strategic vision for European ports.

Shipping Deputy Minister underlines the significance of Nicosia Declaration on Seafarers

On her part, the Shipping Deputy Minister, Marina Hadjimanolis, referring to maritime issues discussed at the Council, said that during the Cyprus Presidency emphasis was placed on strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, resilience, sustainability, and strategic autonomy in the maritime sector.

She recalled the important initiative of the Cyprus Presidency, the ‘Nicosia Declaration on Strengthening Seafarers’ Education and Training and Promoting Equal Participation of Women in the Shipping Industry’, which was adopted in Cyprus in April by all member states.

She noted that the Declaration is also recognised in the conclusions adopted by the Council today.

As she stated, the Council adopted Conclusions on the EU Maritime Industrial Strategy, which recognise the maritime secto, including shipping, shipbuilding, ports, and related services, as a key element of Europe’s prosperity, security, connectivity, and decarbonisation.

At the same time, Deputy Minister noted that discussions confirmed broad support among Member States for continuing the decarbonisation pathway of maritime transport beyond 2030, with emphasis on the need for regulatory certainty and the promotion of investment in sustainable maritime fuels.

In this context, she also referred to the upcoming revision of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, as well as the importance of alignment with international developments within the International Maritime Organization.

The Republic of Cyprus has confirmed an incident involving interference with aircraft carrying the Greek, Dutch and French Defence Ministers while en route to Cyprus on Sunday evening to attend an informal EU Defence Ministers meeting.

Director of the President’s Press Office Victor Papadopoulos told CNA on Monday that Cyprus had been informed by the Ministers involved that their aircraft were subjected to interference originating from the illegal Tymbou airport.

He added that, in the case of Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias, Turkish fighter jets were also observed operating in the area.

‘In the case of the Greek Defence Minister, it appears that Turkish fighter jets were flying at a distance, parallel to Mr Dendias’ flight,’ Papadopoulos said.

He said the Republic of Cyprus will raise the matter through the appropriate international channels.

‘All of this will be formally denounced by the Republic of Cyprus where appropriate. The Minister of Defence will today brief the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and will also inform the European Council during its proceedings,’ he said.

Papadopoulos described the incident as illegal and in violation of international law, adding that it is condemnable.

Asked whether the incident may be linked to broader Turkish actions ahead of the summit and the signing of the Cyprus-France Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) agreement, he declined to speculate, reiterating that it constituted an unlawful act.

Reliable sources in Athens said they assessed that the incident is part of a broader Turkish plan to respond to the SOFA agreement, due to be signed on Monday between France and the Republic of Cyprus, adding that the aircraft carrying the French Defence Minister was also subjected to similar interference.

The continuation of the “excellent” cooperation between the executive and legislative branches was discussed on Monday afternoon at the Presidential Palace by President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, and House of Representatives President, Annita Demetriou, during their first official meeting following Demetriou’s re-election.

Welcoming Demetriou, President Christodoulides congratulated her on her re-election and expressed both his hope and confidence that the ‘excellent cooperation between the executive and legislative branches’ would continue.

He added that ‘the challenges and problems are common. Therefore, cooperation will continue, always for the benefit of the citizens.’

Demetriou said that cooperation between the two branches had indeed been exemplary and that it was imperative for it to continue, noting that the interests of citizens and country stand above all else.

She added that there are major challenges, reforms, and pending bills, assuring that she would do everything within her power, representing all her colleagues and ensuring functionality at the institutional level as well.

In statements following the meeting and responding to journalists’ questions, Demetriou said that during the meeting, ‘we highlighted, discussed, and emphasised the institutional cooperation that we had previously and that we must continue between the executive and legislative branches.’

At the same time, Demetriou said that the President also briefed her about his meeting earlier with UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, María Ángela Holguín.

‘The President also briefed me on the Cyprus issue and the various developments,” she noted.

“We remain committed to this common goal, which is none other than the liberation and reunification of our homeland. For us, this is the highest priority, and we will remain steadfast within this framework,’ she pointed out.

Asked to describe cooperation between the Presidency and Parliament from 2023 to the present, Demetriou said that ‘it is an institutional necessity,’ noting that it has functioned properly to date, enabling the passage of legislation that benefits all citizens.

‘This is exactly how it must continue,’ she said.

Responding to a question about upcoming government bills expected to be discussed in Parliament, Demetriou referred to pension reform and other pending legislation.

After the membership and presidencies of parliamentary committees are set, she said, “MPs will immediately begin their work, as required, because we cannot wait. There are many issues, and they are critical.’

Regarding the threats against her life, she said that she briefly discussed the matter with the President of the Republic and noted that she had been informed on the matter by the police but did not wish to go into detail about the matter.

Asked whether she feels safe, she replied ‘of course I feel safe, and every politician should feel safe to express their opinion freely. Beyond that, some answers will need to be provided after the investigation is carried out.’

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, pays a visit to the Kyrgyz Republic on Monday, as part of his tour in Central Asia.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Minister’s contacts will focus on the further development of Cyprus-Kyrgyzstan bilateral relations, the increase in the frequency of contacts between the two countries at the political and diplomatic level, as well as coordination following the country’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the period 2027-2028.

The Foreign Minister has already paid visits to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kombos’ contacts in Central Asia are being carried out with the aim of promoting and further upgrading Cyprus’ relations with the countries of the region.

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.