Cyprus took over the EU presidency, held talks with Zelensky
On Wednesday, Cyprus officially took over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union. The six-month presidency kicked off with a meeting in Nicosia.
It was attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President António Costa. This is Cyprus's second presidency since joining the Union in 2004.
Cyprus President Níkos Christodúlídés began by emphasizing the country's ambition to contribute to strengthening the autonomy and integration of the European Union at a time of growing global challenges. "We will respond to our institutional commitment to the EU with the aim of strengthening its autonomy," he said.
Zelensky's participation in the event is seen as a clear signal of the Union's continued support for Ukraine. In addition to a bilateral meeting with the Cypriot president, the Ukrainian leader also took part in broader talks with representatives of European institutions.
Representatives of Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, are also expected to attend the evening ceremony.
(reuters, max)