We will make use of the expertise of the University of Cyprus (UCy) in exercising the EU Presidency in 2026, Deputy Minister for EU affairs Marilena Raouna said Tuesday, following a meeting she had with the University’s Rector, Professor Tasos Christophides. The Rector said that they look forward to a really positive contribution of the University.

Raouna described the meeting as particularly constructive and beneficial, adding that it marks a series of meetings she is going to have with higher education institutions.

She said that the government values the involvement of young people in EU matters and this is extremely important in view of Cyprus’ EU Presidency. Raouna said that the involvement could be through a series of events, through the utilization of the expertise of the University but also through the liaison officers who will be working during the Cyprus Presidency. She said that she looks forward to a close and productive cooperation.

The Rector noted the University’s engagement as extremely important, stressing that the University is a European one, which embraces the principles and values of the EU and therefore they want nothing more than for Cyprus to have a successful Presidency.

Professor Christophides said that the know-how and resources of the University are available for the Presidency which, he added, will reaffirm that we are mainly EU citizens that want the best for the Union.

Replying to a question, the Rector said that other meetings will follow to discuss in detail the involvement of the students and the academic community. He explained that the University also has liaison officers who will cooperate and collaborate with the DepMin to make sure that the University will have a really positive contribution.

Cyprus joined the EU in 2004. This is the second time that it will assume the rotating Presidency of the EU.