Cyprus Decides to Extend Directorate of European Affairs Until 2026

The Council of Ministers of Cyprus has decided to extend the operation period of the Directorate of European Affairs until the date 31 December 2026. Given that the current operational period ends on 31 July, this decision was submitted to the Parliament with a request for urgent examination to accelerate the approval process. The House will hold its last session on 15 July before the summer recess for a ceremony condemning the coup and the Turkish invasion, making the matter urgent to meet this deadline.

In a previous statement, the President stated that the government's decision to preserve both the Directorate of European Affairs and the European units within the ministries was made to utilize the technical expertise gained during the term. He emphasized that the European Union and Cyprus's role within the Union is not only a part of foreign policy but also deeply affects domestic policy, and that decisions taken in Europe directly impact the daily lives of Cypriot citizens. This development has been supported by the appreciation of the contributions of the Director of the Directorate, Marilena Raouna, and the view that the structure requires continuity.

In the rationale of the bill submitted to the Parliament, the need to maintain the progress on the Multiannual Financial Framework, which needs to be finalized during the Irish Presidency, was highlighted. It was deemed necessary for both the country and the European Union to continue the process so that the experience gained and the relationships established by Cyprus are not lost. It is stated that the Government intends to transform the Directorate of European Affairs into a permanent structure within a legal framework.

Director Marilena Raouna stated to Euractiv that the plan to cease the activities of the Secretariat established during the Cyprus Presidency period was cancelled, and the structure will continue its existence with a coordination task. Referring to the EU membership and the stance on Ukraine, Raouna argued that Cyprus being a small state does not limit its influence on the EU, that the experience of occupation shapes the perspective on the Ukraine issue, and that diplomacy is resilient under pressure. These statements serve as a response to the perception that small member states are defenseless against external pressures.

Finally, this development has put an end to recent speculations about a cabinet change and rumors that Raouna would be appointed to another post. With the extension of the term of the Directorate, Raouna will remain in her current position to complete her term, meaning she is off any list of potential changes. The legal process is expected to be completed before 15 July, the last session of the Parliament before the summer recess.