Cyprus and Britain explored ways to strengthen EU-UK relations on Thursday as the island prepares to chair the European Union Council from January 2026, according to the Press and Information Office.
- Cyprus and Britain explored ways to strengthen EU-UK relations on Thursday as the island prepares to chair the European Union Council from January 2026, according to the Press and Information Office.
During a working visit to Cyprus, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna met with British Minister for the Constitution and EU Relations Nick Thomas-Symonds. Their discussions focused on deepening ties in areas of mutual benefit, reflecting the commitment of both nations to enhance their bilateral relations.
They confirmed the excellent level of cooperation between Cyprus and the UK, aiming to build on the momentum from the positive EU-UK summit held in London in May. The officials exchanged views on how to implement existing agreements and deliver tangible results in critical areas such as security and defence, migration, and people-to-people contacts.
The conversations also encompassed a variety of topics including the UK’s participation in the SAFE regulation, Erasmus+ initiatives, youth mobility, and cooperation concerning sanitary and phytosanitary measures. Additionally, trade issues between the EU and the UK were a key point of discussion, highlighting the ongoing importance of economic ties.
Both Raouna and Thomas-Symonds expressed a strong readiness to maintain close cooperation during Cyprus’s upcoming EU presidency. They recognised the significance of this period for sustaining momentum in EU-UK relations and further strengthening them for mutual benefit.
In a related note, Raouna updated Thomas-Symonds on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem, including efforts to restart negotiations based on UN Security Council resolutions. She also mentioned progress towards Cyprus’s full integration into the Schengen area, which remains a pivotal aspect of the island’s European aspirations.
