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View all search resultsCyprus steers EU toward reliable trade, global partnership
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An illustration of Indonesia's Red-and-White Flag (left) and the European Union flag. (Shutterstock/zmotions)
A
s Cyprus takes over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, it seeks to navigate a volatile geopolitical landscape by bolstering “strategic autonomy” while offering partners stability and predictability.
The presidency rotates among member states every six months. Cyprus is now leading the Council from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2026, coordinating meetings, guiding legislative procedures and ensuring the bloc operates smoothly.
Speaking to The Jakarta Post on Feb. 27, Cyprus Ambassador to Indonesia Nikos Panayiotou described the six-month term as “a great privilege but also a responsibility,” especially amid the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, rising geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty.
“Every presidency has its carefully prepared priorities. But there is always the element of the unknown,” he said. “At this point in time, that element is stronger than in most other cases.”
He said one of the unpredicted issues that Cyprus and the bloc are paying attention to is the recent armed escalation in Iran, which was attacked by Israel and the United States on Feb. 28.
Read also: EU 'expects' US to honor trade deal as Trump hikes tariffs
Located at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East, Cyprus aims to act as a bridge in crisis, channeling humanitarian aid, connecting international partners and supporting relief and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
