Senior government sources in Brussels say the Republic of Cyprus considers the possible absence of European Council conclusions on enlargement to be the wrong political message, particularly given the current geopolitical environment. The issue was discussed by EU27 leaders during Thursday’s European Council meeting.
According to the same sources, Nicosia believes that, at a time of heightened instability, the European Union must demonstrate political clarity and continuity, rather than leaving room for ambiguity on enlargement.
Continuity under the Cyprus Presidency
The Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU will act on the basis of the statement issued by the Danish Presidency of the General Affairs Council earlier this week, with the aim of ensuring institutional consistency, political coherence and continuity of policy.
Government sources stress that this approach reflects Cyprus’ intention to play a constructive and responsible role during its Presidency.
Western Balkans and the risk of a vacuum
On enlargement, and particularly the Western Balkans, the sources describe the issue as highly sensitive, warning that the EU must avoid creating a vacuum of influence that could be exploited by third parties.
They underline the need for the Union to move from rhetoric to concrete action. Montenegro and Albania are cited as examples where political will and sustained reform efforts can translate into tangible progress in the accession process.
Serbia and the need for a clearer EU message
With regard to Serbia, sources note that the European Union has so far failed to convincingly demonstrate to Belgrade that it truly belongs to the European family. This, they say, calls for sincere self-criticism and a clearer political message from Brussels.
At the same time, it is acknowledged that Serbia has made progress, including support for Ukraine and a gradual reduction of dependence on Russia. This shift, the sources stress, should be constructively leveraged by the EU. They also point to a convergence of views with Greece and an intention by the Cyprus Presidency to take specific initiatives aimed at strengthening Serbia’s European orientation.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: stability as a prerequisite
Regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina, government sources emphasise that internal stabilisation and the effective functioning of institutions are fundamental prerequisites for maintaining the country’s European perspective.
Ukraine and Moldova as priorities
Cyprus reiterates its clear support for Ukraine and Moldova, placing the advancement of their accession negotiations high on the Presidency’s agenda. Progress, it is stressed, must be based on equal and merit-based evaluation, with particular reference to Moldova’s commitment to reforms and the strengthening of the rule of law.
EU–Turkey relations and principled engagement
On Turkey, sources highlight the importance of the wording of the statement adopted by the Danish Presidency of the General Affairs Council last Tuesday, which includes critical references and was unanimously endorsed by all 27 Member States.
The Cyprus Presidency intends to act as an honest and fair mediator, aiming to shape an EU–Turkey relationship grounded in principles and reciprocity. Cyprus’ strategic objective remains having a neighbouring country that is closer to the European Union and aligned with its values.
All candidate countries, including Turkey, will be invited to the informal General Affairs Council to be held in Cyprus. In addition, the possibility of inviting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to an informal European Council meeting is under consideration. According to government sources, both the EU and the Cyprus Presidency must be prepared to deliver tangible outcomes, provided Turkey responds with concrete actions and meaningful compliance.
Enlargement and European credibility
Finally, sources underline that Euro–Turkish relations, in light of the European Council Conclusions of April 2024, remain a priority for the Republic of Cyprus. This approach forms part of a broader strategy linking enlargement with regional stability, respect for international law and the credibility of the European Union.
Following the enlargement debate, EU leaders moved on to the next agenda item, marking the first European Council-level discussion on the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework.