The Government will continue to pursue reforms in 2026, with the stated aim of modernising the state and its institutions, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Tuesday, during his opening remarks at the Council of Ministers meeting.
Recent reforms and key approvals
According to the Presidency, the President expressed satisfaction with the approval of the tax reform on Monday, as well as the reform concerning the evaluation of teachers. He said the outcome reflects the Government’s overall intention to move beyond the state structures established in 1960 and to modernise institutions.
Reforms already launched
Christodoulides referred to reforms already initiated by the Government, including changes to the Audit Service and the Law Office, the extension of voting rights from the age of 17, automatic voter registration, and the digital reform programme for 2025. He noted that this programme included the addition of 75 new digital services across all Ministries.
He also mentioned reforms relating to building permits, urban planning permits, university clinics and other areas, adding that these efforts will continue in the same direction in 2026.
Major reforms ahead
The President identified the pension system as an emblematic reform currently under preparation, noting that preparatory work has already begun. He also said that 2026 will include reforms concerning the Central Bank, special education and legislation for people with disabilities.
He stressed that reforms will remain a high priority on the Government’s agenda in the coming year.
EU Presidency and European priorities
Christodoulides also referred to Cyprus assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in January 2026. He called on Cabinet members to work towards reinforcing Cyprus’ role in Brussels and to contribute to advancing the European agenda.
He said that further European integration is a key objective of the Presidency and a prerequisite for European autonomy.
International focus
Concluding his remarks, the President said the next six months will be dedicated to collective efforts aimed at upgrading the international image of the Republic of Cyprus.