De-escalation in the Middle East, safeguarding freedom of navigation, and addressing the impact of regional developments on citizens’ daily lives, particularly energy prices, will be at the center of discussions during the informal meeting of heads of state or government of the European Union, as well as the EU27 meeting with regional leaders, President Nikos Christodoulides has said.
In a post on X on Friday, 17 April, the President recalls that the meetings will take place in Cyprus on 23 and 24 April and underlines that the EU remains an ambitious union and that the new Multiannual Financial Framework must reflect this ambition, adding that the meeting will provide political guidance on how to fulfill that ambition.
He also stresses that the EU27 meeting with regional leaders "sends a clear message that the Middle East and the Gulf are part of Europe’s neighbourhood, with security being inextricably linked."
He adds that partners stand by each other in challenging times and that now is the time for decisive steps to further elevate EU relations with the Middle East and the Gulf.
The Cypriot President also expressed pride that Cyprus is at the helm of the Council of the EU and is hosting these important meetings.
The Republic of Cyprus currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU for a six-month term that started on 1 January, 2026, as part of a Trio Presidency along with Poland and Denmark.
Proud for mu country to be at the helm of the Council of the European Union.
— NikosChristodoulides (@Christodulides) April 17, 2026
Proud to be hosting in Cyprus on 23 and 24 of April the Informal Meeting of the Heads of State or Government, as well as a meeting of the EU27 with regional leaders.
We will discuss how we can… pic.twitter.com/DK5y6Xkf0x
(Sources: CNA, X)
