Category: Cyprus News Agency

The priorities of his portfolio for the Cypriot Presidency were presented by the Minister of Justice and Public Order Costas Fytiris, before the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), underlining that Cyprus is assuming the responsibility ‘with pride but also with a high sense of responsibility.’

‘The Cypriot Presidency serves with deep faith in the power of European unity and autonomy, in democracy, human rights and the rule of law,’ he said, stressing that at a time of complex geopolitical and social challenges, Cyprus aspires to act ‘as a bridge of cooperation, as a reliable mediator and as a Member State that contributes substantively to the collective European effort for a more autonomous, secure, competitive and open Europe.’

A central priority of the Presidency, as he made clear, will be tackling serious and organised crime. ‘Organised crime is evolving at unprecedented speed and requires an equally dynamic response,’ he noted, adding that ‘we need a comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategy capable of adapting to the changing nature of criminal networks.’

Fytiris stressed that this response ‘must be reflected in action plans, operational cooperation and legislative initiatives,’ while also underlining the importance of cooperation with third countries and the private sector: ‘Without strong international and cross-sectoral cooperation, we cannot stay one step ahead of criminal networks.’

He placed particular emphasis on the recovery and confiscation of illegally acquired assets. ‘The most effective way to combat organised crime is to target the economic pillars of criminal networks,’ he stressed, adding that ‘striking at the roots of crime passes through strong tools for asset recovery and confiscation.’

He also referred to the proposals submitted at the informal Justice Council in Nicosia, which he found interesting and which ‘will be carefully examined by the Cypriot Presidency.’

On economic and financial crime, he warned that ‘criminal networks are increasingly penetrating the legal economy and using sophisticated money-laundering techniques to conceal their illicit profits.’

He described the directive on asset recovery and confiscation as ‘a powerful tool in the hands of the authorities’ and stressed that its transposition into national law must be completed by November 2026.

‘We cannot speak about combating organised crime without highlighting the contribution of Europol,’ the minister underlined. As he said, the Cypriot Presidency will contribute so that the forthcoming revision of its mandate ‘is evidence-based and responds to the real operational needs of the Member States.’

On the new EMPACT cycle 2026-2029, he noted that it ‘ensures the continuation of efforts against drug trafficking, economic and financial crime and other serious criminal activities,’ stressing that operational cooperation and financial investigations ‘must remain at the core of the European response.’

On the new EU strategic framework on drugs, the Minister underlined that ‘drug policy can only be effective if it simultaneously includes combating trafficking and reducing use and its harmful consequences.’ He made special reference to alternative measures to detention for minors and young users and, as ministers discussed at the informal Council in Nicosia, ‘detention must remain a measure of last resort. Diversion towards the health sector and addiction treatment can have very positive results, both for those concerned and for society.’

On preventing and combating child sexual abuse, he stated that the goal of the Cypriot Presidency is ‘to contribute to reaching a political agreement as soon as possible,’ so that ‘a sound and effective act can be adopted for the protection of children and the fight against this abhorrent crime.’

He recalled that the temporary derogation from privacy rules in electronic communications ‘expires on 3 April’ and warned that, without agreement, ‘there is a real risk of a legal vacuum.’ At the same time, on data retention, he pointed out that ‘the key issue is the right balance between the need for effective criminal investigations and the protection of the individual’s fundamental rights.’

Referring to the Schengen area, Fytiris stressed that ‘the rapid implementation of the agreed measures is a crucial step towards restoring a fully functioning area without checks at internal borders.’

On Frontex, ‘the Agency’s core mission must remain supporting Member States on returns and protecting our common external borders,’ he noted, adding that any increase in the Agency’s staff ‘must be based on an assessment of real operational needs.’

‘Violent extremism continues to pose a serious threat to the European Union,’ he said, speaking of a ‘worrying surge in radicalisation and the recruitment of minors,’ while noting that the main threat for Member States remains jihadism. He also referred to new forms of threat through artificial intelligence, the internet and new technologies: ‘The threat is evolving and we must continuously adapt our tools and policies.’

In closing, Fytiris assured that Cyprus is assuming the Presidency ‘with confidence, realism and commitment to our fundamental shared values,’ looking forward to ‘close and constructive cooperation with the European Parliament.’ As he said characteristically, ‘security, justice and human rights are not conflicting goals; they are interlinked prerequisites for a strong and democratic Europe.’

The priorities of Cyprus’ Presidency were presented to the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) by the Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, Michalis Damianos, together with the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Nikodimos Damianou, on Tuesday morning in Brussels.

The Minister thanked the members of IMCO for the opportunity “to present our priorities and participate in a constructive dialogue at a crucial moment for the future of the EU,” emphasizing that the Presidency attaches particular importance to cooperation with the European Parliament and that today’s discussion is part of this spirit of openness and institutional partnership.

According to Damianos, Cyprus is taking over the Presidency “at a time of profound transformation for Europe,” where “geopolitical uncertainty, intensifying global competition, and rapid technological change are putting increasing pressure on our economic model.” As he stressed, these developments “directly affect the functioning of the Single Market” and “require a clear, coordinated, and forward-looking European response.”

Presenting the political vision of Cyprus Presidency, he stated that it is summarized in the motto “An Autonomous Union, Open to the World,” meaning one that is “competitive, resilient, and capable of acting decisively,” while remaining “open, rules-based, and firmly anchored in our shared European values.”

According to the Minister, competitiveness is built through “a strong and well-functioning Single Market,” which “removes unjustified barriers, ensures effective enforcement of rules, and provides a predictable framework for businesses and consumers.” For this reason, he said, “strengthening and completing the Single Market is a central political priority of the Presidency.”

Damianos described the Single Market as “Europe’s greatest economic achievement” and “one of its strongest strategic assets,” noting, however, that “its full potential continues to be limited by fragmentation, uneven application of rules, and administrative complexity.” As he explained, the Cypriot Presidency will focus on “following up on the Single Market Strategy, improving enforcement, and preventing the creation of new barriers” so that “citizens and businesses can fully benefit from the freedoms it offers.”

Referring specifically to the posting of workers, he emphasized that “the diversity of national declaration requirements continues to create unjustified barriers to the free provision of services.”

The proposal for an electronic declaration, he said, aims to “reduce the administrative burden through a single digital interface,” while fully safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring effective enforcement.

He assured that the Cypriot Presidency “will work pragmatically to advance discussions and facilitate compromises, in close cooperation with the European Parliament.”

Turning to the issue of consumer protection, the Minister stressed that it is a “cornerstone of the Single Market.” He noted that it is “imperative to ensure a high level of protection,” as this “directly strengthens public trust in the internal market and boosts its competitiveness.”

He also referred to the 2030 Consumer Agenda, presented to Parliament by European Commissioner McGrath, saying it is “expected to address the challenges we are called upon to face in the field of consumer protection, as shaped by geopolitical developments and technological progress.”

Cyprus Presidency, he said, “will actively promote the 2030 Consumer Agenda by bringing relevant Council Conclusions to the COMPET Council,” while “safeguarding vulnerable consumers, especially minors, and upholding high standards of protection and information will remain key priorities in the coming months.”

In the same spirit, he emphasized that “trust in the Single Market requires effective enforcement and fair competition throughout the Union.”

Common rules, he said, must be “applied consistently and decisively, both online and offline,” so that “consumers are protected and compliant businesses are not undermined by unfair or deceptive practices.” To this end, he said, it is necessary to “strengthen cooperation between national authorities, improve market surveillance, and make better use of digital tools” to “ensure product safety and a truly level playing field.”

Referring to the digital transformation of the Single Market, he stressed that it “creates additional challenges for consumer protection, particularly online,” noting that “the protection of minors and the fight against deceptive and manipulative practices are issues of growing concern.”

Although the European Union already has “a strong legislative framework,” he emphasized that “effective implementation and further reflection are necessary.” He assured that the Presidency “will contribute to these discussions in a way that strengthens consumer trust while preserving the unity of the Single Market.”

In conclusion, Damianos placed particular emphasis on simplification and better regulation, stating that the Presidency will continue to promote “clear, proportionate, and well-designed rules” that “enable businesses, especially SMEs, to innovate and grow,” while ensuring a high level of protection for consumers. He characteristically underlined that “simplification is not deregulation; it is a prerequisite for competitiveness, fairness, and trust.”

Addressing the Chair and members of the IMCO Committee, he concluded by saying that Cyprus Presidency approaches its term “with a strong sense of responsibility, openness, and cooperation” and is “committed to working closely with the European Parliament, and with the IMCO Committee in particular, to deliver a Single Market that is fair, competitive, and resilient, serving consumers, businesses, and citizens across the Union.”

The key priorities of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the field of fisheries were presented on Tuesday at the European Parliament by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, who underlined the need for a more autonomous, resilient and competitive European Union.

Speaking at the meeting of the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries (PECH), Minister Panayiotou stressed that sustainability, food security and the Union’s strategic autonomy are at the forefront of the Cypriot Presidency’s agenda, at a time of heightened challenges stemming from climate change, biodiversity loss and geopolitical instability.

After expressing her sincere condolences to the families and communities affected by the tragic railway accident in Andalusia, the Minister of Agriculture highlighted that the central theme of the Presidency is an autonomous European Union that is open to the world. ‘A Union that is more resilient, more self-sufficient and better prepared, while at the same time remaining outward-looking and actively present on the international stage,’ she explained.

This approach, she continued, is reflected in the five pillars of the Presidency, with agriculture and fisheries falling primarily under the pillar of autonomy through competitiveness.

She emphasised that the Cypriot Presidency will place particular focus on strengthening the competitiveness, sustainability and long-term resilience of Europe’s fisheries and agricultural sectors. At the same time, she noted, there must be full awareness of the serious challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, ongoing geopolitical instability and increasing international political violence.

Minister Panayiotou described it as crucial to highlight the importance of fisheries and agriculture in the context of food security and the Union’s strategic autonomy. She noted that fisheries and agricultural products offer significant benefits for health and the environment and play a key role in promoting healthy dietary patterns and supporting public health.

The Minister of Agriculture also referred to cooperation with the European Parliament, and in particular with the PECH Committee, so that joint efforts respond effectively to the needs of European fishers and consumers.

She stressed that only through close cooperation among the Parliament, the Council and the European Commission can tangible results be achieved for these sectors.

She pointed out that the Cypriot Presidency will seek to promote a strengthened Common Fisheries Policy that enhances sustainability, resilience and competitiveness, while at the same time ensuring the long-term prosperity of coastal communities.

‘During the Presidency,’ she continued, ‘we expect to work closely on two additional legislative files concerning regional fisheries management organisations, as well as on issues related to the external dimension of the Common Fisheries Policy, including international relations with coastal states and Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements.’

Minister Panayiotou underlined that her roots and traditions are deeply connected to rural life and that she has spent her life living by the sea. ‘My responsibility for a wide range of policy areas – fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, forestry, natural resources and the environment – offers a truly holistic perspective. This is also reflected in the three pillars of sustainability and guides the principles of the Common Fisheries Policy: environmental, economic and social,’ she explained.

Concluding her address, she thanked the Polish and Danish Presidencies for their work in advancing the objectives of the programme, as well as the members of the European Parliament’s PECH Committee for their constructive contribution. ‘Your role is crucial in ensuring that the concerns of European fishers remain at the heart of our policies, and I look forward to our future cooperation,’ she concluded.

Responding to questions raised by members of the PECH Committee, the Minister stressed that the guiding principle of the Cypriot Presidency in the coming period will be meaningful and honest dialogue.

As she noted, progress in European policymaking can only be achieved through open and sincere discussions between the European Parliament, the Council, the European Commission and the sector itself. She underlined that the same approach applies to discussions on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy, its funding under the new MMF, and the challenges facing the primary sector.

Referring to the role of the Presidency, she stressed that it acts as a mediator, aiming to facilitate structured and constructive dialogue so that the positions of the European Parliament are heard and taken into account. As she pointed out, the cost of inaction is far higher than the cost of action, emphasising that climate change is directly affecting production, fisheries and the primary sector as a whole.

With regard to questions on the framework of the Common Fisheries Policy and the renewal of the fishing fleet, the Minister acknowledged the concerns that have been raised, noting that the European Commission’s proposals are currently under assessment. She made clear that the Presidency’s priority is to address the needs of the sector within budgetary limits and to facilitate dialogue between the Council and the Parliament, in order to ensure adequate support across all policy areas.

In a lively discussion at the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) in Brussels on Tuesday morning, Cyprus Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nikodimos Damianou presented the priorities of his portfolio in the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The session was also attended by Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry Michalis Damianos.

The Deputy Minister underlined the crucial role played by the IMCO Committee in shaping and implementing EU internal market policies, stressing ‘how we regulate the relevant activities, how we enforce the rules and how we protect consumers online.’

He emphasised that safeguarding this foundation is essential in order ‘to ensure that markets remain fair, enforceable, consumer-centred and fit for the digital age.’

He also pointed out that a truly single market directly affects ‘the integrity, sustainability and effectiveness of the market itself, and the services we deliver for our citizens.’

Presenting the structure of the Cyprus Presidency’s digital agenda, he said it is built around three strategic pillars: strengthening Europe’s digital capabilities, capacity and technological leadership; reinforcing cyber-resilience, safety and trust in the digital environment; and, third, engaging globally through strong international partnerships.

As he noted, these pillars reflect the ‘open’ dimension of the Presidency’s motto and are directly linked to the ambition of building a competitive and digitally sovereign Europe.

He explained that this approach is closely connected to the need for a truly competitive digital single market. This requires ‘modern digital infrastructure, seamless cross-border activity and regulatory frameworks that enable business.’

He placed particular emphasis on startups and scale-ups, noting that it is crucial ‘for them to scale across the Union and become global leaders.’

In this context, he stressed that simplifying administrative procedures and the regulatory environment is key, stating that this would be ‘the number one point I want to make during the Cyprus Presidency.’

He added that Cyprus intends to follow in the footsteps of its Polish and Danish predecessors, maintaining an ‘active and swift pace’ in advancing all digital simplification files, the so-called Omnibus packages.

Referring specifically to the AI Omnibus and the Artificial Intelligence Act, he said that, despite the proposed postponement of the application of certain rules for high-risk systems, ‘the Presidency is firmly committed to advance quickly and to contribute to a swift conclusion of inter-institutional negotiations.’

Damianou assured that Cyprus will work pragmatically to build consensus among Member States in order to ensure ‘the effective, credible and timely application of the AI Act, without compromises on the principle of risk management.’ He also stressed that this approach is fully aware of ‘the substantial risks arising from the use of AI.’

At the same time, he made clear that digital simplification will not come at the expense of the Union’s overall digital ambition. As he put it, ‘we consider simplification a key catalyst for competitiveness,’ and the Presidency intends to follow ‘a pragmatic agenda, with a focus on reducing red tape and providing relief, especially for service providers,’ without adopting a broad deregulation approach.

The second pillar of the programme concerns safety, trust and the integrity of the digital single market. Damianou noted that while digital technologies have provided unprecedented opportunities for our societies, they have also created ‘significant challenges,’ particularly in the new digital reality.

With MEPs themselves insisting on the issue in their interventions, he placed particular emphasis on the protection of minors, underlining that children now spend ‘an increasing part of their lives in front of digital screens,’ where they are potentially exposed to harmful and inappropriate content.

He argued that ‘further measures are needed to ensure better and more targeted protection.’

He recalled that the EU already has a strong regulatory framework in place, such as the Digital Services Act (DSA), the Audiovisual Media Services Directive, the AI Act and the Better Internet for Kids+ programme, but added that ‘significantly more still needs to be done.’

In this context, he welcomed the Commission’s related announcement and the recently published guidelines under Article 28 of the DSA on the protection of minors online. He stressed that in the Council there is ‘broad consensus that it is important to consider setting a minimum age for access to social media’ and that more concrete measures are needed.

He described as critical the Commission’s initiative to develop an age-verification system based on the European Digital Identity framework, as this would create ‘a common technical mechanism that will substantially facilitate enforcement.’

The Cyprus Presidency, he said, is committed to strengthening EU action to protect minors online by promoting ‘a coordinated and holistic approach’ across all relevant policy areas.

He acknowledged, however, the complexity of the issue and explained that the objective is ‘to break down silos’ through enhanced cooperation between different working parties, mapping all relevant legislation and bringing together all stakeholders, in order to shape ‘a coherent, inclusive and impactful EU-wide strategy.’

In closing, he noted that the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency reflect ‘a broader political choice.’ The two main pillars he presented are, as he said, ‘mutually reinforcing’ and form a coherent approach to Europe’s strategic autonomy and competitiveness, firmly anchored in the core values of fairness, trust, inclusion and social responsibility.

He stressed that ‘a digital single market that delivers economic value but fails to protect consumers or undermines social cohesion would fall short of our ambitions.’ Concluding, he said he looks forward to working closely with the European Parliament, and in particular with the IMCO Committee, as well as with the European Commission and all Member States, in a spirit of shared responsibility and cooperation, to advance these objectives.

Cyprus’ EU Presidency is guided by the conviction that education is both a foundation and a catalyst for a resilient, cohesive, competitive and innovative Europe, fully aligned with the European Education Area and broader European policies, Minister of Education, Sport and Youth Athena Michaelidou said.

Michaelidou on Tuesday presented the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the fields of Education, Youth and Sport.

The Cyprus Presidency seeks to pursue a balanced agenda, she said.

She noted that, in the field of Education, the Cyprus EU Presidency will advance negotiations on the Erasmus+ Regulation within the framework of discussions on the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, following the progress achieved during the Danish Presidency. Ensuring that Erasmus+ becomes more inclusive and accessible is a priority, she added.

She also said that the Cyprus EU Presidency was focusing on enhancing the status and attractiveness of the teaching profession through appealing career pathways, continuous professional development and evaluation, as well as supportive working conditions.

‘Particular emphasis will be placed on strengthening teachers institutionally and professionally, so that they can harness Artificial Intelligence as a tool for pedagogical quality rather than perceive it as a threat,’ Michaelidou noted. She added that Cyprus’ Presidency will highlight the importance of a holistic, learner-centred approach to skills, aligned with the vision of the European Education Area and the Union of Skills.

In addition, the Presidency will promote a modern and attractive Vocational Education and Training sector that responds to labour market needs and supports students’ employability. ‘Special attention will be given to the integration of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence,’ she added.

Michaelidou further said that the Cyprus Presidency will strengthen cooperation in Higher Education by promoting discussions on mobility, international partnerships and the next steps towards a possible common European degree.

She also noted that the Erasmus+ Regulation will be subject to negotiations during the Cyprus Presidency, within the framework of the new Multiannual Financial Framework, with the aim of reaching a partial general approach.

‘Teachers are high on the agenda of our Presidency. As we enter the era of Artificial Intelligence, renewed focus is required on supporting teachers in adapting to new digital realities,’ the Minister said. In this context, she added, ‘the Council Conclusions of the Cyprus Presidency will focus on teachers in the age of Artificial Intelligence.’ These will constitute the main deliverables at the Education Council, which will take place on May 11, 2026.

Michaelidou said that, during the policy debate, Ministers of Education will be invited to exchange views on key skills and on ways to support the vision of an inclusive, high-quality and future-oriented European Education Area.

Informal Meeting of Education Ministers

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Referring to the Informal Meeting of Education Ministers, which will take place on January 29-30 in Nicosia, Michaelidou said that discussions will focus on investing in teachers, their professional development, the attractiveness of the profession and retention, as well as the contribution of European cooperation in education and training, in alignment with the European Education Area and the European Semester.

The Minister announced that the Cyprus Presidency has organised a ‘rich’ calendar of education-related events to support its strategic priorities.

On Youth, the Minister said, ‘our priorities recognise the role of the younger generation in shaping the future of the European Union’, adding that they were fully aligned with the EU Youth Strategy, focusing on its objectives of engaging, connecting and empowering young people.

The Minister also said that the agenda was fully aligned with the broader European sports framework. Focus will be on strengthening the European dimension in sport, promoting integrity and shared values, and actively encouraging physical activity across the continent and beyond, she said.

Deputy Minister of Culture, Vasiliki Kassianidou, presented on Tuesday the key priorities of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the fields of culture and media, stressing that for the Cypriot Presidency, culture is not a supplementary policy but a fundamental pillar of European integration.

During a session of the European Parliament’s Committee on Culture and Education (CULT), Kassianidou noted that the Presidency’s cultural program highlights culture as a bridge for dialogue and shared European identity.

At the same time, she stressed that culture serves as a space where the values of the European Union become tangible and experiential for citizens, both within Europe and in the broader international context.

Kassianidou underscored the critical importance of collaboration in promoting cultural issues. She added that culture and the media are key arenas where European democracy, freedom of expression, plurality, and citizen trust are given tangible, everyday meaning. ‘It is our belief that culture must be at the center of public policy,’ she said.

She also recalled that, as early as the Cypriot Presidency in 2012, the Council conclusions on Cultural Governance had set the goal of integrating culture into the core of public policies. ‘An institutional legacy that remains extremely relevant today,’ she noted.

Within this institutional and political framework, Kassianidou highlighted that the Culture Compass for Europe constitutes a critical strategic milestone. For the first time, the European Union has a coherent strategic policy framework that places culture at the heart of European policymaking, enhancing cohesion and the long-term direction of European action.

She emphasized that the Cypriot Presidency attaches particular importance to the Joint Declaration accompanying the Culture Compass and aims to advance discussions and complete the necessary consultations to secure its adoption by the Council during the Cypriot Presidency.

Referring to the new AgoraEU program, Kassianidou noted that it reflects the contemporary understanding that culture, media, and civil society are not merely policy areas but fundamental infrastructures of European democracy, essential for its resilience. She added that in an environment of rising geopolitical tensions, hybrid threats, disinformation, and pressures on independent media, supporting these sectors is not a luxury but a necessity for the EU’s democratic resilience.

She explained that as part of the EU’s new Multiannual Financial Framework post-2027, AgoraEU aims to fund culture, media, and civil society. ‘Building on the ‘Creative Europe’ and ‘Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values’ programs, it adds new elements to support media and strengthen democratic participation,’ she said.

Kassianidou emphasized that the Cypriot Presidency considers it crucial to ensure that all sectors-culture, media, and civil society-receive the support they need to fulfill their missions. Referring to ongoing discussions on the Proposal at the Council, she stressed that the Presidency’s objective is to reach an agreement in the Council in May.

Regarding the European Capitals of Culture initiative, Kassianidou stressed that it is one of the EU’s most successful and high-profile projects. She recalled that during its more than 40-year history, over 70 cities have been awarded and participated in the program.

She also emphasized that the Cypriot Presidency recognizes the proven and multidimensional added value of the initiative for social cohesion, urban empowerment, and international outreach.

She welcomed the European Commission’s work in preparing the new legal framework for post-2033. ‘We are ready to begin discussions in the Council, provided the proposal for a new legal framework is presented during our Presidency,’ she noted.

The Deputy Minister also referred to another key priority of the Cypriot Presidency: laying the groundwork for the new Cultural Work Program post-2027. ‘During the Council in May, we plan to hold an exchange of views on issues considered most important for the cultural and creative sectors over the next three years,’ she explained.

Regarding the European Democracy Shield, Kassianidou stated that the Presidency considers media literacy and the strengthening of the information space’s resilience to be primarily cultural and educational policies. ‘We are fully committed to strengthening democracy in the EU, based on the Commission’s Democracy Package, which includes the European Democracy Shield and the European Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Strategy,’ she said.

She continued, noting that within the European Democracy Shield, the Media Resilience Program reflects the Presidency’s priorities to enhance the EU’s strategic autonomy, cultivate a resilient information space, and provide funding support for independent and local journalism.

Kassianidou further noted that the Presidency will provide the opportunity to delve into two crucial and interrelated issues during the informal meeting of Culture Ministers to be hosted in Cyprus in March.

Specifically, these themes will focus on the protection and effective implementation of cultural rights, as well as the fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural goods. She emphasized that illicit trafficking thrives in conditions of armed conflict, instability, and crises and poses a serious threat not only to cultural heritage but also to the rule of law, social cohesion, and international security.

Addressing this phenomenon requires coordinated European and international action, strengthening prevention, law enforcement, and the return of cultural goods, as well as utilizing the existing legal framework and exchanging expertise among states and institutions.

She noted that through this dual thematic focus, the Cypriot Presidency seeks to highlight culture as both a fundamental dimension of human rights and a field of responsibility, cooperation, and solidarity, reinforcing the EU’s role in protecting cultural heritage and its associated values.

At the same time, she stated that the Cypriot Presidency aims to contribute substantially to shaping a Europe that invests not only in its economic strength and security but also in culture, knowledge, and the values that define it.

‘We are shaping a vision for a stronger, resilient, socially cohesive, and strategically autonomous European Union. A Europe that invests in people, memory, creation, and culture as its connective tissue, approaching culture as the most immediate and universally understood language of European values,’ she added.

Closing her speech, she emphasized that, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, she looks forward to close collaboration with the European Parliament to achieve these common goals.

Responding to MEPs’ questions, the Deputy Minister stressed that supporting and safeguarding the freedom of artists is critical at this time, as they often provide the voices that highlight important social and cultural issues. She noted that funding programs must ensure that artists and creative sectors have the financial resources to continue their work, with freedom of expression remaining a fundamental prerequisite.

Kassianidou also emphasized that culture and the arts are what unite EU member states, as they share common values and institutional frameworks. Within this context, the Cypriot Presidency focuses on inclusiveness, transparency, dialogue with civil society, and sufficient funding for culture.

In statements to the Cyprus News Agency, Kassianidou stressed that Cyprus will benefit from the Presidency by integrating culture more prominently. She explained that this will be achieved by opening Cyprus to more European funds and structural programs, citing AgoraEU as an example.

She also highlighted that the strategic texts ‘Culture Compass’ and ‘Europe for Culture – Culture for Europe,’ presented by Commissioner Glenn Micale?, will be discussed during the Cypriot Presidency, with the hope of completing them within the semester. She noted that finalizing this chapter would be a major success for the Cypriot Presidency.

At the same time, the Deputy Minister emphasized another important discussion during the Presidency concerning the replacement of programs such as Creative Europe and CERF with AgoraEU, which is expected to begin in 2027.

She explained that, as the last country in the Trio, Cyprus is tasked with handling several cultural issues and stressed that intensive efforts will be made to advance these matters to ensure the cultural sector receives the funding it needs.

Concluding, she stated that culture is the foundation of democracy. ‘Freedom of expression and the protection of knowledge pass through support for culture,’ she noted.

Cyprus ranks 15th Globally and 1st in Southern Europe for its Innovation Business Environment

Cyprus is establishing itself as an innovation hub, ranking 15th worldwide and 1st in Southern Europe according to the Innovators Business Environment Index (IBEI) 2026 by StartupBlink.

Key achievements include:

Taxation: Ranked 1st in the EU and 10th globally.

Business Incentives: 2nd in the EU, reflecting highly attractive fiscal and financial conditions.

Global Leaders: Within the top 25% worldwide for key indicators (corporate tax, capital gains, and dividend tax rates).

This high ranking demonstrates that Cyprus has strong foundations for further growth. The country offers one of the most competitive environments for innovation, according to the report, and the RIF’s initiatives facilitate scientific and commercial endeavors.

The IBEI Index evaluates over 125 countries across 30 parameters, focusing on operational ease, incentives, and global market perception.

The first Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AgriFish) held under the Cypriot Presidency of the EU concluded with positive messages for the future of European agriculture and fisheries. Cyprus’ Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, described it as ‘a strong and encouraging start’ for the EU Council, highlighting the open and constructive atmosphere of the ministers’ discussions.

The Minister praised the cooperation with the European Commissioner for Agriculture, Christophe Hansen, as well as with the Commissioner for Fisheries, Costas Kadis, the Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, Jessika Roswall, and the Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, Olivér Várhelyi.

She stressed that better regulation is crucial to provide farmers and fishers with the tools they need to remain competitive and resilient. ‘We firmly believe that the agricultural soul lies at the heart of Europe’s autonomy and resilience,’ she said.

‘We will be pragmatic and result-oriented. We will work for a Europe that is more autonomous and more resilient, while remaining open to the world,’ Panayiotou said, underlining that ‘agriculture lies at the heart of Europe’s autonomy and resilience.’

A central topic of the meeting was the bioeconomy, which the Minister described as a ‘horizontal priority’ that ‘connects sectors using renewable biological resources from land and sea to produce food, materials and energy.’

‘The bioeconomy is a driver of a circular and low-carbon economy. It is not only about innovation, but also about modernising our industrial base and creating new value chains, while protecting biodiversity and the environment,’ she stressed.

The Cypriot Presidency proposed the adoption of Council Conclusions on the implementation of the EU’s updated bioeconomy strategy. ‘Our aim is to provide clear political guidance for the implementation of this strategy,’ she noted, adding that the views of agriculture ministers will be incorporated into the final text to be approved by the Environment Council in the spring.

Particular emphasis was placed on the proposal to amend the regulation on organic farming. ‘Organic farming is a cornerstone of the Common Agricultural Policy. It supports environmental protection and biodiversity and strengthens rural communities,’ Panayiotou said. She added that ‘the rules must be simpler, less costly and more efficient,’ making clear that this directly concerns strengthening the competitiveness of the organic sector.

Cyprus Presidency set an ambitious timetable on the file: ‘Our objective is to adopt a negotiating mandate with the European Parliament by the end of June 2026, so that the changes can enter into force as soon as possible.’

As regards import controls, earlier in the day the official launch of a special task force to strengthen border checks was also announced.

In response to a question on residues of banned pesticides in food, Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen was unequivocal: ‘The internal market is sensitive and unique. We need an absolutely unified European approach. Unilateral initiatives do not help the sector.’

He revealed that the Commission is moving towards a zero-tolerance policy. ‘We have proposed zero limits for three substances and have launched a study to add more products to the zero-tolerance list. Our decisions will be based on scientific evidence,’ he said.

From her side, Panayiotou noted that ‘all member states confirmed the importance of safeguarding very high EU production standards in order to protect the health of citizens and the environment.’

Commissioner Hansen also announced an upcoming action plan on fertilisers saying that they “will present short-term and long-term measures to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers and diversify imports.” “We must reduce our dependencies and become more resilient,’ he added.

He also referred to the EU’s trade agreements, pointing out that “almost 60% of our agri-food exports are covered by trade agreements, and exports to these countries are growing twice as fast.’

‘The message is clear: many serious challenges, but also significant opportunities. We will work together for a fair, sustainable and competitive agri-food sector in Europe,’ Panayiotou stressed. For his part, Commissioner Hansen remarked that ‘if today’s meeting shows what our year will look like, then we have difficult battles ahead of us – but also real opportunities to succeed.’

Finally, asked about the OPEKEPE scandal and media reports referring to individuals named in the case file transmitted by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office to the Hellenic Parliament – and their possible reappointment to the same or higher positions of responsibility in the new structure under Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), Commissioner Hansen pointed out that the Commission ‘is following the situation very closely and is responsible for verifying that EU funds are spent in accordance with EU rules.’

However, ‘as regards criminal allegations, that is, of course, the task of other European authorities, and they are doing their job as they should. We are, of course, following the cases very closely, but there are also elements that are ultimately criminal and these must be taken up by the competent authorities,’ the Commissioner stressed.

The Cyprus Stock Exchange (CSE) All Share Index closed at today`s stock exchange meeting as follows:

MEETING DATE: 27/01/2026

INDICES BASE VALUES: FTSEMed=5000, OTHERS = 1000

EURO (pound )

TRADED VALUE 976.637,18

INDEX

VALUE

%DIFF.

VALUE

FTSE/CySE 20

177,820

1,450

955.905,960

MAIN MARKET INDEX

242,220

2,100

912.585,480

INVESTMENT COMPANIES MARKET INDEX

3.009,520

-0,900

36.956,990

CSE GENERAL INDEX

301,180

2,190

968.332,690

HOTELS INDEX

2.121,530

4,630

6.499,200

ALTERNATIVE MARKET INDEX

1.976,290

1,480

60.275,650

* The second column presents the percentage variation of the indices as compared to the last meeting.

Cyprus is committed to promoting child well-being and combating child poverty Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Clea Papaellina said Tuesday before the European Parliament in the context of a meeting of the European Parliament’s EMPL Working Group on the Child Guarantee. Cyprus DepMin visited the EP following an invitation by MEP Hristo Petrov.

The Deputy Minister stressed that the European Child Guarantee is a fundamental political commitment of the European Union, so that no child is deprived of basic goods and services due to social or economic inequalities.

She pointed out that in Cyprus the Child Guarantee is implemented through a coherent framework of policies that aim to prevent and address child poverty and social exclusion.

Referring to the EU Cyprus Presidency the Deputy Minister underlined that the Presidency’s social agenda is guided by a people-centred approach, with an emphasis on equal access for all citizens to quality, accessible and personalised social services, in full alignment with the European Pillar of Social Rights.

Particular reference was made to investing in the future of children, which is a key priority of the Cyprus Presidency. Papaellina noted that promoting child well-being, eradicating child poverty and enhancing access to affordable and high-quality early childhood education and care, in line with the Barcelona objectives, are at the core of the European social agenda.

The Deputy Minister also informed the MEPs that the Cyprus Presidency has submitted to the Council for discussion a set of Conclusions titled ‘Investing in Children: Strengthening Child Well-being, Social Inclusion and Combating Child Poverty in the European Union’, which are expected to be adopted at the EPSCO Council in March 2026.

Papaellina underlined the importance of close and constructive cooperation with the European Parliament, so that political commitments are translated into tangible and substantial improvements for the lives of all children in Europe.

Cyprus EU Presidency will host in May 2026 a High-Level Conference jointly with the meeting of the National Coordinators of the European Child Guarantee.

The Director General of the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare, Yiannis Nikolaidis, further explained the importance of investments in social policy and answered questions from MEPs regarding the measures for implementing the Child Guarantee in Cyprus.

In the context of the meeting, the National Coordinator for the establishment of the European Child Guarantee of Cyprus, Maria Yiangou, informed the Working Group on horizontal actions and policies.