EU ‘must be united in strengthening its position on the global stage’

It has been told the EU “must be united in strengthening its global standing.”

That is the message from BusinessEurope to the upcoming Cyprus EU Presidency.

The current holder of the role is Denmark. The role is important as it seeks to ensure the smooth running of the whole EU.

Cyprus will assume the rotating presidency for the first half of 2026, from January 1 to June 30. During this six-month term, Cyprus will chair Council meetings, manage the legislative agenda, and represent the Council to other EU institutions.

Key priorities are expected to include strengthening relations with the southern neighbourhood, addressing migration, improving water resilience, and boosting competitiveness and security.

Cyprus will chair meetings of the Council and its preparatory bodies, ensuring a smooth and orderly legislative process.

The presidency sets the agenda for the Council and guides the legislative work.

The message from BusinessEurope’s Council of Presidents came after they convened in Nicosia, a meeting hosted by its Cyprus member federation, the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB).

With the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU approaching, the delegation met with the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides to outline the European business community’s priorities for the upcoming Presidency.

They also exchanged views with Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans.

BusinessEurope President Fredrik Persson said: "At a time of great geopolitical uncertainty, the EU must be united in strengthening its position on the global stage and the Cyprus Presidency can play a crucial role in these efforts.

“Trade diversification must be a key focus over the next six months, including the swift ratification of the EU-Mercosur agreement.

“It is also essential that, during the Cyprus Presidency, the EU shows that it is serious about turning promises into tangible improvements for companies across Europe.

“Lowering regulatory burdens, securing affordable energy, deepening the Single Market, and mobilising investment in innovation are essential steps to strengthen Europe’s economy and resilience."

OEB President George Pantelides commented: "For OEB, it is important that Cyprus plays its part in steering Europe through this defining moment.

“We will work closely with our government to ensure that the EU accelerates the creation of the right conditions for growth, innovation, and resilience, so that European enterprises can succeed globally.

“Delivering on promised reforms and enabling companies to invest and create jobs will be crucial for Europe’s prosperity."

As Europe’s largest business organisation and a recognised European social partner, BusinessEurope is a leading advocate for growth and competitiveness at the EU level.

Founded in 1958, it speaks for enterprises of all sizes in 36 European countries whose 42 national business federations are its direct members.

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