President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides has assured the Bureau of the European Economic and Social Committee that Nicosia - which is assuming the upcoming EU Presidency - is deeply committed to advancing a Europe that is united in purpose, sustainable in growth, and grounded in solidarity.
The President addressed the 743rd meeting of the EESC Bureau convening in Nicosia on Wednesday, 19 November, ahead of the EU Presidency that begins on 1 January. He noted that today's meeting marks the beginning of our Presidency journey "that we have been preparing for with diligence, with deep commitment to the European project."
President Christodoulides also noted that cooperation, participation and dialogue are the very principles that lie at the heart of our common European project.
"We will work hand in hand with the European Economic and Social Committee, as well as with all EU Institutions, as honest brokers, in a spirit of sincere cooperation, to turn this vision into tangible progress and outcomes. For the benefit and the shared prosperity of all EU member states, regions and citizens", he said.
In his address, the President underlined that Cyprus EU Presidency is an immense opportunity for our country, one that will actively contribute to the shaping of Europe’s future in a tangible manner, with the aim to deliver a Presidency that adds value for all Member States.
"We will work in a constructive, transparent and inclusive manner. In a spirit of sincere and close cooperation with all Member States and EU institutions, to decisively drive the European agenda forward. Deeply committed to our shared European values, to multilateralism, and to rules-based international order", the President also said.
He added that priorities also include, inter alia, promoting policies that strengthen cohesion among Member States, foster long-term growth and stability, defence and security, migration and the protection of our Union’s borders, energy, water resilience, and affordable housing.
President Christodoulides also said that our unwavering support for Ukraine will continue, on all fronts, pointing out that "Ukraine is fighting for its territorial integrity, and it is also fighting for Europe’s".
He also said that Cyprus' region must be part of the equation and added that another top priority will be decisively advancing the negotiations for a new Multiannual Financial Framework that will deliver on our strategic priorities.
Cyprus President also made special reference to water scarcity, pointing out that our country faces some of the most severe climate challenges, including drought and the Cyprus Presidency will focus on the need for swift and coordinated action towards strengthening Europe’s water resilience and adaptation to water stress.
"Deliberations in the Council, at both technical and ministerial level, will seek to advance discussions on the Water Resilience Strategy, contributing to the preparation of the new European Climate Adaptation Plan and to strengthening water preparedness and resilience across the EU", he said.
(Source: CNA)
