Cyprus Prepares for EU Council Presidency with High-Level Berlin Talks
In anticipation of Cyprus taking over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union in January 2026, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides is set to meet with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin. The upcoming talks mark the first official meeting between the two leaders and come at a critical time as Cyprus outlines its priorities for the six-month EU presidency.
According to official statements, the agenda for the talks centers on the strategic objectives Cyprus has set for its term, including enhancement of EU defense policy, comprehensive border management strategies, and advocacy for further EU enlargement, particularly involving the Western Balkans. Both leaders are expected to address the development of the EU's defense capabilities and the future trajectory of European security cooperation.
Another key topic will be the ongoing efforts to strengthen the EU's competitiveness on the global stage. Recent initiatives led by Chancellor Merz, including calls for regulatory simplification and improvements to the EU's multiannual financial framework, underscore Germany's focus on economic resilience. The upcoming discussions are anticipated to align Cyprus's presidency goals with these economic priorities, seeking common ground on regulatory reforms and long-term budget planning for the bloc.
Defense cooperation is expected to feature prominently, with particular attention to collaborative projects within the EU's Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative. The possibility of third-country participation, notably Turkey's interest in contributing to the EU's emerging security architecture, is likely to be deliberated. Cyprus has consistently expressed reservations about the involvement of nations perceived as posing security challenges to EU members, referencing longstanding disputes with Turkey over the divided status of the island.
Cyprus remains divided between the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a situation dating back to the events of 1974. The unresolved status of the island continues to influence Cyprus's position on EU security and defense collaborations, particularly regarding Turkish participation in EU programs. Any potential agreement involving candidate countries in the SAFE framework would require unanimous consent from all EU member states, a stipulation that provides Cyprus with significant leverage in these negotiations.
EU-NATO relations will also be examined, with Cyprus aiming to ensure that cooperation between the two organizations is conducted transparently and inclusively. Despite not being a NATO member, Cyprus has articulated aspirations to eventually join the alliance, contingent on favorable political conditions. However, opposition from Turkey, which does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, remains a significant obstacle. As such, the Cypriot president is expected to reaffirm his country's commitment to serving as a bridge between the EU and Eastern Mediterranean countries, advocating for increased EU engagement in the region, including financial support for neighboring states such as Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan.
The longstanding division of Cyprus remains an undercurrent in the diplomatic exchanges. Recent political developments, such as the election of a moderate Turkish Cypriot leader supportive of a federal solution, have created cautious optimism about the potential for renewed negotiations. While talks on reunification are conducted under United Nations auspices, Cyprus recognizes Germany's influential diplomatic ties with Turkey as a potential asset in advancing dialogue. The Berlin meeting will provide an opportunity to explore ways in which Germany can support efforts to bridge the remaining gaps in the peace process.
Additionally, the discussion is likely to touch on the broader context of EU-Turkey relations. Cyprus supports the resumption of EU accession talks with Turkey, provided Ankara fulfills its outstanding obligations related to Cyprus and adheres to criteria established by the European Council. The Berlin summit is expected to reinforce the importance of adherence to these conditions as a prerequisite for any progress in Turkey's EU membership aspirations.
As Cyprus prepares to assume a prominent leadership role within the European Union, its upcoming consultations with German officials are poised to shape the EU's policy direction on defense, enlargement, and regional stability for the coming year.