The enlargement of the EU is a “geopolitical necessity highlighted by international developments”, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna said on Tuesday, adding that this would be high on the agenda of Cyprus’ EU presidency in the first half of 2026.

Speaking at the Informal EU General Affairs Council, held in Warsaw under the Polish EU presidency, Raouna said Cyprus was a strong supporter of EU enlargement governed by the principle of fair and strict conditionality.

Warsaw’s informal council discussed hybrid threats in the enlargement process, the new Multiannual Financial Framework, as well as strengthening the EU’s civilian and military preparedness and readiness, on the basis of the Niinistö report, which dealt with an integrated approach to EU crisis management and resilience.

Raouna said Cyprus supported fair access to EU financial instruments, ensuring that smaller economies could benefit equally.

Cyprus, she said, also supported further investment in the defence industry and security through both public and private funding and in a way that benefited all 27 member states.