cyprus eu — cyprus eu — Cyprus’ upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union is deemed crucial for achieving unanimity among the bloc’s 27 member states regarding its next budget. European budget commissioner Piotr Serafin made this statement following a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides on Thursday.
Serafin emphasised the significance of Cyprus’ role, noting that it was the first member state he visited after the European Commission unveiled its budget proposal the day before. He stated, “Cyprus will be a very popular destination for EU institutions, heads of state, and ministers of EU member states during its presidency of the Council of the EU.”
President Christodoulides echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of Serafin’s visit and the budget discussions. He remarked, “Cyprus will do everything to ensure progress on the issue when it holds the presidency of the Council of the EU, as well as on other issues of great importance, such as migration.”
The EU’s forthcoming budget will span from 2028 to 2034, encompassing a range of proposals aimed at enhancing various sectors. On Wednesday, the commission presented a package of seven “sectoral proposals” that cover critical areas including the single market, customs programme, justice, and the research and training programme for the European atomic energy community (Euratom).
Significant funding has been earmarked to support these initiatives. For instance, the commission plans to allocate €6.2 billion to dismantle barriers in the single market and promote cooperation between national administrations. This funding is notably double the amount available in the current budget, which covers the period from 2021 to 2027.
Moreover, Euratom is set to receive €9.8 billion to enhance nuclear safety, security, and radiation protection, while also supporting the management of radioactive waste and non-power applications of nuclear science, particularly in healthcare. Alongside this, the EU plans to invest nearly €1 billion in improving nuclear safety in Europe and third countries.
The total budget proposal approaches €2 trillion at current prices, representing approximately 1.26 per cent of the EU’s gross national income on average over the budget period. The budget will now undergo discussions among member states at the European Council, with unanimity required for approval before it can be presented to the European Parliament for consent.
