Overview
- The six-month term runs from 1 January to 30 June 2026, with Cyprus chairing ministerial meetings and mediating between member states.
- Declared priorities include competitiveness reforms, continued support for Ukraine, measures to curb irregular migration, and preparatory work on the next long-term EU budget.
- The presidency operates under the motto "An autonomous Union. Open to the world," signaling internal resilience paired with global openness.
- Under Cyprus's chairmanship, ministers will also debate the European Commission proposal to reverse the planned 2035 ban on new combustion-engine cars.
- Cyprus previously led the Council in 2012, remains de facto divided with the north recognized only by Turkey, and says the island’s status will not feature in its program.