Irish Minister Thomas Byrne Visits Cyprus for EU Presidency Preparations

Minister Byrne's Diplomatic Mission

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is undertaking a three-day visit to Cyprus from September 29 to October 1, 2025. The primary objective of this diplomatic engagement is to foster strategic collaboration and discuss preparations for Ireland's upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.

Ireland is set to assume the EU Council Presidency in the second half of 2026, following Cyprus, which will hold the presidency in the first half of the same year. This visit underscores the importance of close coordination between member states in preparing for their respective turns at the helm of the Council.

Key Meetings and Engagements

During his time in Cyprus, Minister Byrne is scheduled to hold a series of high-level bilateral meetings with Cypriot political counterparts. These include discussions with President Nikos Christodoulides, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, and Chairman of the Foreign and European Affairs Committee of the Cyprus Parliament Harris Georgiades.

Beyond the formal political agenda, Minister Byrne will also engage with local and Irish community groups. A significant part of his visit involves meeting with UN officials, including the 12 members of An Garda Síochána who are serving with the United Nations Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP). Ireland has been a steadfast supporter of the UN's peacekeeping operations in Cyprus since 1964. Furthermore, the Minister will meet with the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP), an organization Ireland has supported with contributions totaling €500,000 since 2006, with an additional €25,000 provided in 2025.

Shared European Vision and Priorities

Speaking ahead of the visit, Minister Byrne highlighted the strong ties between the two island nations. He stated, 'Though far apart geographically, Ireland and Cyprus have much in common, as islands that have known conflict, and as fellow EU member states. I will take the opportunity to build on the dynamic linkages Ireland and Cyprus share today.' He further emphasized the ongoing cooperation, noting, 'Ireland and Cyprus are already cooperating closely to prepare for our respective presidencies next year. My political meetings will allow for detailed discussion on strategic collaboration.'

Ireland's 2026 Presidency will be its eighth and is seen as a crucial opportunity to influence Europe's response to contemporary challenges. The Irish government is committed to delivering a successful presidency, with plans to host an informal meeting of the European Council and a meeting of the European Political Community. The process of defining the policy priorities for Ireland's presidency is currently underway, with a focus on areas where Ireland can make the most effective contribution and advance a positive policy agenda for the Union.