Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna is set to be in Brussels on Monday for the EU General Affairs Council (GAC), where she will also engage in meetings to prepare for Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency in 2026.
- On the same day, Raouna will participate in the 7th EU–Albania Intergovernmental Conference, further underscoring her active role in regional and European discussions.
The GAC will primarily focus on laying the groundwork for the European Council summit scheduled for 18–19 December. This meeting will see leaders discuss pressing issues such as the ongoing developments in Ukraine and the Middle East, the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), EU enlargement, migration, and the Union’s competitiveness in the current global economic climate.
Ministers attending the GAC will exchange views regarding the European Commission’s work programme for 2026 and will address EU–UK relations. Special attention will be given to fulfilling commitments made during the May 2025 EU–UK summit and ensuring the full implementation of existing agreements.
Additionally, the Council will review the progress of negotiations on the new MFF under the Danish Presidency. Ministers will also partake in their annual rule-of-law country dialogue, which will focus on Bulgaria, Czechia, Ireland, and Germany.
On the same day, Raouna will participate in the 7th EU–Albania Intergovernmental Conference, further underscoring her active role in regional and European discussions.
During her time in Brussels, Raouna is expected to meet with her counterparts from other EU member states, European Commissioners, and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) as part of the preparatory efforts for Cyprus’ Presidency. The meetings will aim to strengthen cooperation and share insights on the various topics that will be addressed in the coming months.
