Α central priority of the Cyprus Presidency is the promotion of sport tourism as a contributor to sustainable development, Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Dr Athena Michaelidou said in her introductory remarks at the EU Sport Forum 2026 taking place in Paphos, in the framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The Cyprus Presidency also places strong emphasis on mental health in sport and on physical activity and active ageing as cornerstones of public health, she noted.
In her address, delivered on the Minister’s behalf by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Marios Panayides, on 15 April, Michaelidou noted that the Forum’s host city, Paphos, beyond its rich heritage, is also a city “with a proud connection to sport,” as it is the birthplace of Stelios Kyriakides, “one of the most inspiring figures in the history of European athletics.” “His victory in the Boston Marathon was more than a sporting achievement - it was a powerful message of resilience and dignity - and above all, solidarity in times of hardship,” she said. “His legacy continues to remind us that sport is far more than competition - it is a source of hope and unity,” the Minister noted.
Michaelidou said that, in a rapidly evolving environment - marked by social, economic and technological change - the role of sport is becoming increasingly significant, and that the discussions of this year’s Forum address issues of profound importance for the future of European sport. “They touch upon the well-being of those who practice sport, the integrity and sustainability of its structures, its role within our broader regional context and the need to preserve fairness, solidarity and balance,” she said, adding that these were central to maintaining trust in sport and ensuring that it continues to serve societies in a meaningful and inclusive way.
She also noted that the key themes of this Forum were closely aligned with the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency in the field of sport, “reflecting our shared commitment to strengthening the role of sport in society as a key pillar of public policy, contributing to health, social cohesion, economic development, and sustainable growth.”
A central priority of the Cyprus Presidency, the Minister said, is the promotion of sport tourism as a contributor to sustainable development. “Through targeted policies and initiatives, we aim to strengthen local economies, support regional development and promote more sustainable tourism models,” she said. In this context, the Cyprus Presidency has prepared a set of Council conclusions on sport tourism as a contributor to sustainable development that is to be approved by the Education, Youth, Culture and Sports Council on 12 May, the Minister noted.
According to Michaelidou, the Cyprus Presidency also places strong emphasis on mental health in sport - which is to be discussed on May12 – and on physical activity and active ageing as cornerstones of public health.
Furthermore, she said, the Cyprus Presidency highlights the importance of strengthening the Mediterranean dimension of sport, as a bridge for dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding among nations.
“These priorities reflect our broader vision: a vision of sport that is inclusive, sustainable and closely connected to the well-being of our societies,” she said.
Concluding the Minister noted that the EU Sport Forum offers “a valuable opportunity,” not only to reflect on current challenges, but also to shape forward-looking policies that will strengthen the European sport model for future generations.
(Source: CNA)
