MEP Loucas Fourlas, with the support of the Cyprus Forum, organized an event titled: “20 Years Since Accession – One Year Before the Cypriot Presidency”, which took place at the European Parliament in Brussels.
The event was attended by, among others, Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans; Christina Rafti, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the European Union; and Ioannis Vrailas, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Greece to the EU.
Key topics discussed and analyzed included:
- EU Security and Defense: The Role of Cyprus
- Conflict Resolution and Economic Prospects: Lessons from Cyprus and Beyond
- Cyprus: One Year Before the Cypriot Presidency of the EU
The event aimed to highlight Cyprus’s role in the European Union, analyzing the opportunities and challenges ahead of the Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council in 2026.
During his address at the event, MEP Loucas Fourlas emphasized that Cyprus is heading towards a significant presidency, during which it must leave a positive impact.
“We will all work towards this goal, with Cyprus as our guiding principle.
The Cyprus issue remains one of the world’s longest-standing conflicts, with economic, social, and geopolitical implications.
A resolution in Cyprus would primarily benefit both communities, enabling them, through joint strategic management, to address energy issues and share economic resources in an environment of peace and security, creating prospects for further development.
The conditions are not easy after 50 years, but hope remains that resolving this issue will be beneficial for the entire region, with Cyprus serving as a pillar of stability. It would be clear proof that conflicts and problems can be resolved, setting an example for others.
I would like to remind everyone of the positive economic impact following the reunification of East and West Germany, as well as the Good Friday Agreement signed in Belfast between the governments of Great Britain and Ireland.”
In his speech, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis outlined his priorities and goals for the next five years.
“During this five-year period, we will strive to ensure the sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in Europe, while simultaneously protecting and sustainably managing our oceans and seas. The first major milestone is the European Ocean Pact.
In a few months, the Republic of Cyprus will assume the Presidency of the European Union. Despite being a small member state, Cyprus has high-quality human resources who, with the guidance and support of the government, will contribute to a successful Presidency that we will all be proud of.”
Christina Rafti, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the EU, highlighted some of the priorities for the Cypriot Presidency, including progress in negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework, migration, maritime security, and energy.
“Less than a year before our Presidency, we look forward to taking on this responsibility, with a commitment to help build a stronger, more resilient, and competitive EU that delivers more to its citizens and the world.
To achieve this, we rely on close and valuable cooperation with all institutional bodies, member states, and stakeholders.”
Ioannis Vrailas, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Greece to the EU, emphasized that Cyprus’s accession to the EU 20 years ago marked a pivotal moment in the country’s modern political history while also strengthening the voice of Hellenism in the Union.
“As an EU member, Cyprus has changed, acquiring tools, institutions, and policies that boosted its economy, further strengthened the rule of law, and expanded opportunities for future generations. EU accession placed the Cyprus issue in a new framework and reinforced the call for a fair and sustainable solution that aligns not only with United Nations resolutions but also with the EU acquis.
I am confident that Cyprus will pass on to the next presidency a stronger and better Union. Naturally, Greece will do everything in its power to support the Cypriot Presidency.”
The Executive President & Founder of Cyprus Forum, Nicolas Kyriakides, stated that this initiative aims to amplify Cyprus’s voice at the heart of European decision-making while also highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and ideas the country can contribute to the European Union and beyond.
“The presence of the Cyprus Forum in Brussels is more than symbolic. It is an expression of our commitment to actively participate in shaping policies that affect not only our country but also our shared European future. Our goal is to strengthen connectivity and collaboration with European institutions while fostering open and meaningful discussions on critical issues.”
Links:
- Reporter, 20 Years Since Accession – One Year Before the Cypriot Presidency
- Offsitenews, 20 Years Since Accession – One Year Before the Cypriot Presidency
- Alphanews, Top Priorities of the Cypriot EU Presidency at Cyprus Forum Event in Brussels
- Cyprus Times, Top Priorities of the Cypriot EU Presidency Highlighted at Cyprus Forum Event in Brussels
- toThemaOnline, L. Fourlas – Cyprus Forum Event in Brussels: 20 Years Since Accession – One Year Before the Cypriot Presidency
- ANT1, 20 Years Since Accession – One Year Before the Cypriot Presidency
- Kathimerini, Zsolt Darvas