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President Says Bringing EU Closer to Middle East is Presidency Priority

Published January 8, 2026, 09:32
President Says Bringing EU Closer to Middle East is Presidency Priority

The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stated that bringing the European Union closer to the wider Middle East is a key priority of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU. He emphasized that the Arab League can play a significant role in this effort. President Christodoulides mentioned that following his recommendation, the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission will travel to countries in the region, such as Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. This will take place within the framework of the Informal European Council on April 23 and 24, where specific projects to strengthen cooperation will be presented. Cyprus is also promoting the conclusion of strategic agreements with Middle Eastern countries, such as Lebanon, and working to strengthen relations with the Gulf states. President Christodoulides expressed his belief that the EU and the Middle East have common challenges and great prospects for cooperation. The Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed AboulGheit, thanked for the invitation to attend the official inauguration ceremony of the Cypriot Presidency, emphasizing the importance of this invitation.