Government of Cyprus

Policy topics Government of Cyprus is active on

What Government of Cyprus has said (80)

• 2026-07-14 “Thank you, Thomas. No problem. I will be switching to Greek for this intervention. 1st of all, let me congratulate the Irish presidency and you personally, Thomas, for taking over the presidency of the EU. I would like to wish you all the best in, this ambitious and successful work program for the next 6 months. Cyprus welcomes the priorities of the Irish presidency as we have them today, priorities that ensure that the works of the council are going to continue, especially in a time of special geopolitical and financial challenges. As presidency before, Cyprus believes that the strength of the rotating presidencies is based on continuity and the fact that we understand European attempts to promote our programs. We believe that we need a deeper and more inclusive EU market, promote the regulatory framework, green and digital transition, and invest in innovation and strategic technologies. We also welcome, that the presidency was to promote the values of the EU, continue support to Ukraine, continue the enlargement process, and strengthen the role of the union as a reliable and consistent global player. This is why we give particular importance in the intention of the presidency to strengthen their presence in The Middle East and the wider neighborhood, understanding the meaning of regional presence in order to face challenges. We also support your emphasis in strengthening security and defense. And we agree with your commitment to early progress in negotiations in the next MFF, which is going to be very important in order to fulfill our strategic priorities. Cyprus will continue to work with the presidency in order to achieve our common challenges. You can count on our full support during your presidency. Thank you very much.”
  EU competences on foreign affairs
• 2026-07-13 “Thank you very much, Mr. President. We'd like to thank Italy for this initiative. We support the re-examination of for 2027 in order to have the right financing of the programs for the promotion of agri food products, and avoid any disproportionate reductions. By recognizing this importance, we also call for the commission to simplify the process for application and monitoring so that these programs can be more accessible to the largest possible number of applicants. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-07-13 “Dear Martin, dear Commissioner, 1st of all, a great thank you for your kind words, a great thank you for the excellent collaboration over the past 6 months. I would like to wish you, Martin, you and your team personally every success. I believe that, this is definitely going to be the case. You should know that, you'll have our support from Cyprus for anything that is promoted for the benefit of our farmers and your ambitious presidency with very positive priorities, with priorities which are what the primary sector is looking for. This is seen in today's presentation and we'd like to congratulate you for that. Of course, we'd like to thank you for this very generous presence that you have given us. Now when it comes to our point here, 1st of all, would like to thank the Commissioner personally, but also to welcome the presentation of the EU livestock strategy and the protein plan. These are 2 very important and very interconnected initiatives that aim to strengthen the resilience of EU farming, the food security and of course, the user security and autonomy in a difficult geopolitical environment and climatic environment. 1st of all, when it comes to the 1st question, it is particularly important in order to achieve those goals to have the sufficient support accompanied by the right instruments. Cyprus supports the commission's actions to move immediately to the support of farmers together with various financial institutions together with the European Investment Bank. We believe the implementation of these financing should not be based only on the redistribution of the CAP funds. In any case, we understand the need for additional funding for the various national plans. We need the right amount of flexibility, targeted solutions and targeted support based on the national specificities for Cyprus as an island with limited abilities for protein plants and a high dependency on imported products. It is particularly important that this strategic autonomy takes into account the different realities and capabilities of the member states. And for this reason, we welcome particularly that this strategy recognizes and utilizes the national specificities of member states. Now when it comes to the 2nd question, we believe that any subsequent actions must be based on targeted and coordinated actions that are going to strengthen the strategic autonomy when it comes to food production. The recent animal diseases and of course, the recent developments in Cyprus remind us of the importance of resilience and the importance of the resilience for the competitiveness of the agriculture sector. We need to have level playing fields for all EU farmers and we believe that the promotion of standards for animals must be accompanied by the right implementation of equal standards for all imported products. We need to have a well documented and viable solutions that support production within the EU. It is particularly important that these new requirements must be accompanied by the right funding, the right transition periods and targeted measures in order to have the right transition for EU farms. Thank you. **Ireland @Chair Thank you, Maria. Next up is Italy, followed by Netherlands and Bulgaria. Francesco de Florent.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• 2026-06-29 “They are therefore exposed to housing. Or rather, they become vulnerable members of the population in terms of not having housing, affordable housing. They don't always have the economic means to live in areas where the services that they require are in fact, available. So there are a number of challenges to many families and households. This also pertains to certain working groups. Groups of workers. Tackling housing security, therefore, is requires an integrated approach which needs to Include actions in different policies. We need increased investments. We need cohesion in the regulatory frameworks and with the availability of financial means to reinforce the availability of housing, I'm sure that all of you present here today have a number of ideas, have a lot of experience to share with us, and I look forward to hearing this about these. In your interventions, we have prepared two questions for the purpose of this debate. You will see them in housing. Note in the note 1038926. Initially, we invite you to share your views on the regulatory and administrative policy measures, which, in your view, have proven most effective in addressing housing affordability challenges faced by students and middle income households, particularly in those areas where there is a short housing supply. Secondly, we would like to hear how. Public and private investment can be better mobilized to expand affordable housing options for students and middle income households. Whilst at the same time ensuring housing security. Social inclusion. And long term affordability. Executive Vice President Roxana, would you like to say a few words?”
  EU housing policy
• 2026-06-29 “We need to also ensure that there are greater public and private investments, and that there is an improvement of data collection and data analysis so that we can support the policies that are mapped out and also to reduce any costs in the construction sector. The European Commission has been called upon to continue to support member states at all governance levels and to promote open dialogue and cooperation with. The Pan European investment Platform, inter alia. All the while bearing in mind the importance of subsidiarity. Colleagues, the Cyprus Presidency believes that these conclusions have a very strong policy based message, and that is that we are here to take on the housing challenges in the full respect of national authorities and different national conditions. There is a need to underline the public and private investments in social and socioeconomic affordable housing, both at national but also at European level. At the same time, there are. Important guidelines for future cooperation amongst member states, but also amongst the institutions and bodies of the EU. I'm happy to inform you that agreement has already. Consensus has already been reached with the agreement. Ten 76526. Roxana, would you like to add anything at this point?”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-29 “Roxana. Colleagues, thank you very much for this most fruitful discussion. I would like to conclude now by saying that the Council held an exchange of views on the item housing security for all. Responding to the needs of students and middle income households, which was guided by the presidency note set out in document ten 389/26. I would like to conclude this item by looking at the results achieved by the Cyprus presidency in the area of affordable housing. Together, we managed to come to continue with the momentum within the EU so that we can take on this challenge together and that we can adopt council conclusions that provide a clear political direction as to the next steps to be taken. We held a number of meetings in February. We held an informal meeting in Nicosia in May. And they showed the willingness on the part of all to act, to ensure subsidiarity and to ensure affordable housing. At the same time, we realised that there was the a need to create a platform for the exchange of ideas and opinions and practices to guide work in the sector. The Cyprus presidency has now coming to an end. So I would like to thank you for your excellent cooperation, for your commitment over the last six months, Cyprus will continue to support the implementation of the European Affordable Housing Plan in an active manner, and will assist with the work of the incoming Irish Presidency so that together we can ensure that access to affordable, decent and sustainable housing can in fact become a reality for all European citizens. We will now take a short break before moving on to the next item on today's agenda, during which Ireland will be presenting the work of their presidency.”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you Norma. So the Council has approved the conclusions on the item housing, shifting demographics and shaping policies as set out in document number ten 76526. ***Housing Security for all: Responding to the needs of students and middle-income households”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-29 “I would like us to move on to a set of conclusions titled Housing, Shifting Demographics and Shaping Policies. For the duration of the Cyprus presidency. When it comes to housing, we have adopted a human centric approach focusing specifically on the needs of citizens, housing policies, the opportunities they create, the challenges that arise all affect directly the quality of life of our citizens, and they lead to many socio economic impacts, but also benefits the challenges that we have before us. Show this inextricable link between. Between housing policies and social cohesion, competitiveness, demographic sustainability, and in general, the well-being of our citizens. Off mike. Demographic trends. Once again. Off Mike. Are one of the most impactful parameters when it comes to housing, as they shape. But they're also shaped by the affordability of housing. In the framework of the conclusions the local authorities governments have been called upon to take into consideration the interplay between housing and demographic changes when preparing measures to address such issues as housing, social welfare, employment and regional cohesion. At the same time, member States are called upon to see all the different impacts and to take into account various sectors when implementing housing policies. To tackling these challenges requires innovation and environmentally friendly construction models and renovation models, so that we can improve the housing stocks.”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-29 “Colleagues, the time has come for us to now discuss the last item on today's agenda, and that is housing security for all responding to the needs of students and middle income households. Today, we are endeavoring to exchange views beyond affordability, beyond sufficient housing and suitable adequate housing, but also to and also to focus on safe housing. Housing vulnerability has traditionally been associated with the most disadvantaged groups of our populations. This is still the case today. However, rising housing costs, limited housing supply, urbanization and an increased demand in metropolitan touristic together with university cities are affecting housing security of middle income households and students. Mobility within the EU. Is one of the founding principles of the EU. The lack of affordable, adequate housing for students, together with increased rental prices in student cities, is creating a huge challenge for our young students. Many students, because of high housing costs, have limited access to studying. They feel discouraged. They don't always participate in mobility programs, and sometimes they are unable to even finish their studies. Guaranteeing equal opportunities and access to university studies is very important. And for that you need to also have housing. At the same time, more and more households, middle income households are facing a number of challenges when it comes to having affordable housing. Many households spend more and more of their income on their housing, and this means that they have less of a spending ability when it comes to other basic needs.”
  EU housing policy
• 2026-06-26 “33:35 - 12:33:55): Thank you. So I can conclude that the council took note of the information provided by Denmark and France, The Netherlands, and Sweden on ensuring the right incentives to accelerate electrification. We're now breaking for for lunch, and we're continuing resuming at 2PM.”
  EV charging infrastructure
• 2026-06-26 “38:55 - 10:42:45): the permitting directive, our aim today is to agree on a general approach so that our Irish colleagues can proceed with the trial logs and hopefully conclude this important file. Our leaders in March called on the co legislators to agree an ambitious grids package to quickly build the necessary infrastructure, ensure its protection and resilience, and enhance inter interconnections at national and trans European levels, thus contributing to an integrated and more robust energy market. I am confident that the text you have in front of you today delivers on this call. The presidency has listened carefully to the proposals and concerns raised by delegations on this crucial piece of legislation and has done its utmost to find a balanced compromise. I would like to highlight a few elements in this particular. 1st of all, on the network development planning, we preserved a more European approach by entrusting the commission with the preparation of a central scenario across the electricity, hydrogen, and gas sectors, but also ensured an appropriate role for the member states in this process. In order to take account of rapid developments in the energy market, we have also foreseen that additional sensitivities or updates to this central scenario would be developed at least every 24 months. We believe that with these additions, we would have a robust planning process that would address the most pressing needs of the European energy infrastructure. Secondly, on congestion income, which is 1 of the utmost sensitive elements of this proposal. I believe that here too, we have managed to address the concerns of member states and clarify the provision relating to congestion income. I would like to highlight in particular that domestic congestion income arising from internal bidding zones as well as income generated before the entry into force of deregulation have been excluded from this article. We have also clarified that the congestion income would remain within the accounts of transition system operators who would be able to allocate it to relevant projects of common interest or projects of mutual interest or other projects reducing interconnected congestions in their own member states. This would apply until the needs identification reports demonstrates that no additional cross border capacity is required to reduce interconnector congestion. With the changes proposed by the presidency, I hope that this new provision on congestion income will incentivize member states to invest in projects addressing interconnected connect congestion. At the same time, we strive to ensure the necessary flexibility on the best use of such income. Thirdly, let me also highlight the new security and resilience category of projects. In the current geopolitical context and in light of Russia's systemic and deliberate attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, it is clear that we need to think about ensuring the security and resilience of the EU's energy system. It was therefore timely to create a dedicated category of projects addressing the security, resilience, and repairs of the existing electric electricity infrastructure in case of intentional tax. It is also clear that the main objective of the 10 year regulation and the CEF funding remains to develop new cross border energy infrastructure. The presidency, therefore, added a number of safeguards to ensure that there is sufficient financing for all the objectives of this regulation. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all member states and the commission for their intense and constructive efforts in the past 6 months. I believe we came a long way in improving the tax, which will be the basis for the future development of needs based and forward looking trans European energy infrastructure. It is now time to move forward with confidence and engage with the European parliament based on a clear position from the council. Let me 1st give the floor to the commission. Dan, the floor is yours.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• 2026-06-26 “54:54 - 09:58:49): To the secretariat that the brock broadcast can proceed. Okay. Yeah. Okay. Thank you. In accordance with the applicable rules, we will now continue in a public session. Let's proceed with the agreement on the partial general approaches on the Horizon Europe framework program and the specific program for 20 28, 20 34, as well as the accompanying council statement. The regulation of the on the Horizon Europe Framework Program for Research and Innovation for 20 28, 20 34, and the council decision on the specific program implementing Horizon Europe aim to strengthen the union's scientific and technological basis, enhance Europe's competitiveness, resilience, and technological leadership, and support the development of innovative solutions to address major societal, economic, and strategic challenges. The partial general approaches preserve excellence as the core principle of the program while strengthening member states involvement in a strategic priority setting and reinforcing support for research, innovation, and talent across the union. In Corapea, all delegations have expressed their support to these partial general approaches. Unless anyone indicates otherwise, the council should therefore now be in a position to agree to these partial general approaches as set out in documents 1 0 4 6 4 stroke 2 6 and 1 0 4 6 5 stroke 2 6. Since there is a qualified majority in support, the partial general approaches have been agreed. Thank you very much. The council has agreed the legislative a item listed in document 1 0 8 2 3 stroke 2 6. We will now proceed with the adoption of the a items under nonlegislative activities. In accordance with the applicable rules, we will continue in a closed session. Strikes the right balance between accelerating permitting procedures and on the on the 1 hand, providing flexibility for its implementation by member states and respecting the subsidiarity principle on the other hand. It is now time to move forward with confidence and engage with the European parliament based on a clear position from the council. Before I give the floor to delegations, let me 1st give the floor to the commission. Dan, floor is yours.”
  EU research funding · Research priorities within the EU
• 2026-06-26 “06:25 - 12:20:50): Thank you. I can conclude that the council took note of the information provided by Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, The Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Sweden. So, the next item questa. So, I'll give the floor to France, then Denmark, then The Netherlands.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• 2026-06-26 “38:17 - 10:38:55): Thank you. Thank you all for your constructive interventions and continued support throughout our discussions. Your engagement has been invaluable. I have noted broad support for the compromise text presented. Therefore, I can conclude that the council has reached the general approach as set out in document 1 0 7 4 0 stroke 2 6. So dear colleagues, we continue with the regulation on guidelines for trans European energy infrastructure. Like with”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• 2026-06-26 “40:42 - 11:43:19): So thank you everyone, for your interventions and continued support throughout our discussions. Your engagement has been key in shaping this legislative text. I have noted broad support for the compromise text presented. I am confident that my Irish colleague has taken good note of the points of attention to look out for during the upcoming interinstitutional negotiations with the European Parliament. I can conclude that the council has reached a general approach as set out in document 1 0 7 4 6 stroke 2 6. Yes. So, there's a there's a there's a minor change to, to the agenda in terms of of priority. There has been various request to, consider the methane regulation point. So let me remind everyone that it's, an AOB, and AOBs are intended for information points. So unless there are strong requests for interventions, I would invite you to limit this point to a short presentation by the requester. I would now 1st give the floor, to minister from Czech Republic and minister from Slovakia to and and Austria to to present this item. So Carol, Elizabeth, Denisa, the floor is yours.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Colleagues, we now move to the next item on today's agenda, which is the exchange of views on nature, business and competitiveness. Managing the risk of biodiversity loss. As announced, we will hold this item in public session. Yes. Okay. You will remember that at the March Environment Council, we debriefed you on the main outcomes of IBES12, where the main deliverable was the business and biodiversity assessment. The assessment addresses the impact and dependencies of businesses in on biodiversity, and emphasizes the need and urgency for business, governments and other actors to act. All businesses depend on biodiversity and ecosystem services, healthy ecosystems support supply chain, production, infrastructure and markets. The World Economic Forum estimates that over 44 trillion of economic value over half of the global GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature and its services. At the same time, transitioning to a nature positive economy has the potential to unlock over 10 trillion in annual business opportunities and generate hundreds of millions of new jobs. And yet, biodiversity loss is accelerating and deepening a systemic systemic risk to the global economy, financial stability, and human well-being. In action comes at a cost. Extreme heat waves, severe droughts, destructive floods, declining pollinator populations are but a few examples of the financial toll on governments and businesses alike, brought about by nature degradation.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Thank you colleagues. Thank you. Sarah. Um, the council has taken note of the information provided by Spain as well as the interventions by the commission and delegations. ***Information on the MED9 meeting of environment ministers”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you, Mr. Joao Manuel. Thank you colleagues. The Council has taken note of the information provided by the French delegation, as well as the interventions by delegations. ***Tackling ultra-fast fashion: call for a coordinated EU approach”
  Sustainable fashion
• 2026-06-25 “Dear colleagues, let us now turn to the AOB item requested by Belgium on behalf of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg regarding the upcoming Circular Economy Act and information. Note on this item has been circulated and. Catherine, Belgium. The floor is yours.”
  Circular economy
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Thank you colleagues. Dear colleagues. I would like to thank you for your comprehensive, support delegations expressed general support for a strong and balanced chemicals policy, I trust that the suggestions presented here will be taken into account in the forthcoming weeks and months to come. Uh. ***Report on main recent international meeting: CMS COP 15”
  Chemicals regulation
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Catherine. The Council has taken note of the information provided by France, as well as the interventions by the Commission and delegation. ***Need for European coordination in combating invasive alien species and preventing their spread”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, let us now turn to the A or B item requested by the Netherlands on results and follow up of the first conference on the transition away from fossil fuels. Uh, Corolla. Yes, Corolla. The floor is yours.”
  Fossil fuels
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. The Council has taken note of the information provided by the Netherlands, as well as the interventions by the Commission and delegations. ***Work programme of the incoming Presidency”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-25 “Dear colleagues, let us now turn to the AOB item requested by Croatia regarding the midnight meeting of environmental ministers that took place on the 18th to 19th May in Sibenik, Croatia. Croatia. Maria, the floor is yours.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. We will remember in December to wish you happy birthday. And, um. Now, dear colleagues, dear Commissioner, thank you for your contributions. Uh, colleagues, this exchange of views shows that Europe can lead in the transition to a nature Positive economy. Businesses will lead to thrive within nature's boundaries rather than at its expense in order to secure resources, supply chains and infrastructure. We also look forward for the Commission to pursue its work on the nature credits. ***REACH regulation: the way forward”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Thank you. Colleagues. The Council has taken note on the information provided by the delegations and the Commission, as well as the interventions by delegations. ***Upcoming circular economy act”
  Circular economy
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Thank you colleagues. The Council has taken note of the information provided by Belgium, as well as the interventions by the commission and delegations. ***Current legislative proposals”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Would you like to comment? Yes. Thank you very much, everyone. And thank you, Maria. And I think also in the maybe first intervention, try to say also what we are trying to do already on the way forward, on the reach. So thank you for your contributions. And when it comes to simplifying, simplification and digitalization and speeding up, and I'm really looking forward to work together with you on, on the updated annexes, but also, of course, strengthening the enforcement. Many of you have have pointed out, which I totally agree on, just because I've got some questions on just I'm fully aware. And as I said, this is a priority for us at the moment, just for for everyone to know at the moment is assessing the restriction dossier. And we expect their work to be done in the end of this year. After that, our work was not, of course. So we will put forward a proposal and as I see it, I hope that we can. It's about month when we before we know, after we can put this forward. So that's just for information. So thank you very much for this discussion.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Dear colleagues, we move to our next item on the agenda. Ireland will step in as the presidency of the Council of the European Union starting on July 1st, 2026. I will give the floor to our Irish colleague to present his plan and priorities for the next semester. Derek, the floor is yours.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-25 “We aim for a provisional agreement with the European Parliament this Monday. The Cyprus presidency has also successfully facilitated progress on the new European Bauhaus initiative. The council recommendation adopted recently promotes sustainable, inclusive and innovative solutions and improve the quality of life of our citizens and help translate the green transition into tangible benefits for communities across Europe. Beyond our internal agenda, we have worked intensively to ensure that the European Union continues to play a leading role internationally. Cyprus has actively coordinated EU positions in key international environmental negotiations, including the UN water conference process, CMS, Cop15, preparations for Cop 31 and ink on pollution from plastics. Furthermore, we very active was furthermore was very active on other international negotiations, such as the chemicals and pollution and access to justice on environmental matters. Our objective has been clear to ensure that Europe speaks with one voice and continues to lead global efforts on climate action, biodiversity protection and sustainable development. Colleagues. Commissioner. The challenges facing Europe are are considerable, but so are the opportunities ahead of us. The Cyprus presidency has approached its responsibilities with ambition, pragmatism and a strong commitment to European cooperation. Together, we can build a Europe that protects its natural resources, strengthens its economy and delivers a sustainable future for all its citizens. Thank you all. And we wish the incoming Irish presidency every success in guiding these important discussions in the months ahead. Thank you, and I will.”
  Climate policy
• 2026-06-25 “Now, dear colleagues, let us now turn to the AOB item requested by the Commission on the upcoming 78th session of the conference of the parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. Commissioner, the floor is yours.”
  Soil protection policy
• 2026-06-25 “Uh, dear colleagues, under our next item on the agenda, we will exchange views on the reach regulation the way forward. This session will be held in public, and our proceedings will be broadcast live. On previous occasions when we discussed the way forward for the EU chemical strategy, we agreed that chemicals should be safe and that their negative impact on human health and the environment should be minimised. Meanwhile, the Commission has confirmed on several occasions that the most prominent measure of the chemical strategy, the revision of the reach regulation, will not be delivered in its original originally intend forward. Due to developments over the last few years that have increased the pressure on our chemicals industry. In our opinion, it is important that the Council has therefore, the opportunity to discuss the way forward on the EU chemicals policy in order to inform and steer our discussion, we have prepared a background note for you with two guiding questions, focusing on a practical outlook, how to further improve the Reach framework with legislative or non legislative measures, and how to improve the enforcement of the framework. Um I, I, I invite you to limit your interventions to two minutes, but before giving the floor to the delegations, I would like to ask the commission whether she likes to intervene. Yes. The floor.”
  Chemicals regulation
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you, Maria, for the information. I see that. There is no request for intervention. Okay. The Council has taken note of the information provided by Croatia. ***Nature, business and competitiveness: managing the risks of biodiversity loss”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Colleagues, we move now to our next item on the agenda, which is an AOB point requested by the French delegation concerning a more targeted approach to the challenge posed by invasive alien species. An information note prepared by France on the matter was circulated. I now pass the floor to the French delegation to present the item. Cyril, you have the floor.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Cyril. Um, the the commission. The commission has exceptionally asked to, uh, to speak second on this point, because of the importance it ascribes to these negotiations. So, Commissioner, the floor is yours.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-25 “The European Union has started reversing the trend through the European Green Deal, the EU Biodiversity strategy for 2030. The Nature Restoration Regulation and our commitment to the Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. However, environmentally harmful subsidies and private investments in high impact sectors continue to greatly outgrow direct capital investments in nature conservation and restoration. We need to close this gap, but public money alone will be insufficient. We need innovative and predictable financing. Nature credits is one such example, and we call on the Commission to achieve its announced roadmap. I am happy to see that the topic of today's exchange of views was also highlighted during the 26th edition of EU Green Week, and that a transition to a nature positive economy is high on the EU and international agenda. Colleagues, nature is without a doubt, our ultimate business partner. Before opening the floor. I would like to recall that the presidency has prepared a background note with two questions, and we are seeking your views on how to unlock the potential of ecosystem services and incentives for the transition to a nature positive economy. I invite you to limit your interventions to two minutes. I would now like to invite first the commissioner for her comments, and then I will give you the floor. Dear Oswald, the floor is yours.”
  EU approach to sustainability criteria in private investments
• 2026-06-25 “Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, thank you for your valuable input and willingness to take this proposal forward and reach agreement. I note that views continued to be quite diverging on the Commission proposal on the level of ambition and on the appropriateness of flexibilities proposed, notably on the fuel credits. I have also taken due note of the of other issues raised by delegations. This includes the utility factor where some prefer freezing it while others prefer its update. Moreover, I take note of the issue of the made in EU criteria and the Green steel credits. I invite the incoming presidency to continue work based on today's discussion, to pave the way for a balanced compromise and wish you the best of luck. Uh. With that, I conclude that the Council took note of the progress report submitted by the presidency and held a debate on the state of play, on the proposal for amending the CO2 standards for cars and vans. I will now ask the technicians to switch off the cameras”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “Now into public session with two legislative items to be adopted in public deliberation. The results of the votes will be displayed on the cameras in this room and on the video streaming page of the Council. Statements will be entered in the minutes of this meeting. First, we will adopt the regulation of the adjustment of customs duties and opening of tariff quotas related to the import of certain goods originating in the. In the US. This regulation eliminates the remaining customs duties on US industrial goods and grants professional market access, including via tariff rate quotas and reduced tariffs for certain US seafood and non-sensitive agricultural products. The council should now be able to approve the European Parliament's position as set out in document P. Cons 3226. The results of the vote are now displayed. I note that the required qualified majority has been reached and that the act is adopted. Second, we are going to adopt the regulation on the Non-applicable application of customs duties on imports of certain goods. This regulation extends the duty suspension regime for imports of lobster and clarifies its scope to include processed lobster products. Together with the first regulation, it aims at enhancing and stable and predictable transatlantic trade relationship, while ensuring robust safeguards and preserving flexibility to protect the union's economic interests. The council should now be able to approve the European Parliament's position, as set out in document P31/26. The results of the votes are now displayed. Yeah. Okay. I note that the required qualified majority has been reached and the act is adopted.”
  EU-US trade relations
• 2026-06-25 “While the commission proposal aims to marry the two, the discussions so far clearly show that for most of you, more work is required to strike the right balance. This translates into varying positions and demands on the emission reduction targets and on the proposed flexibilities, including on whether for the 90% 2035 target, the remaining emissions should be compensated. Further, we have those that advocate that vehicles running exclusively on, respectively, carbon neutral fuels or renewable fuels should be considered as zero emission vehicles, whereas others oppose this. I could continue, but the overall picture is that this point there is no emerging sufficient majority for either direction. So where do we go from here to the presidency? It is clear that, given that all of the main outstanding issues are linked, further progress will require addressing all of them as part of the overall package. So, dear colleagues, my question for you reflection going forward is keeping in mind our shared objective. How can we together construct an overall balanced compromise, taking into account our different positions and views? With that, I invite you to take note of the progress report and to provide your comments on the state of play. I will ask you to keep your intervention to two minutes before giving the floor to colleagues. I would like to invite the commissioner to comment. The floor is yours.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “Dear colleagues, let us now turn to the item requested by the Czech Republic and Romania, supported by Bulgaria, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia regarding the implementation of the packaging and packaging, waste regulation and information. Note on this item, prepared by the Czech Republic and Romania has been circulated. Czech Republic. Yep, the floor is yours.”
  Sustainable packaging
• 2026-06-25 “The list of items on legislative deliberations as contained in document 10940/26 is approved. Dear colleagues, we come to our first substantial point of the day, the progress report on the proposal for amending the CO2 emission standards for cars and vans following on from our policy debate in March. Our aim today is to take stock of where we are on the basis of the progress report. Let us also take this occasion to reflect on how to take forward the proposal in view of reaching agreement, let me first briefly recall that the Commission presented this proposal in light of the serious challenges facing the European automotive sector as part of automotive package from December last year. The proposal aims to provide a more flexible and technology neutral approach, taking into account technological and market developments. It further pursues multiple objectives. Staying on the course on climate neutrality and at the same time, contribute to energy security and independence by shifting away from fossil use in road transport and, importantly, maintaining predictability for manufacturers and investors, as well as ensuring acceptability of the transition of our citizens. During this semester, the presidency has worked intensively on the proposal and it has been a key priority for us. I will not hide that we had hoped to make more progress, but during the discussions it has became clear that more time is needed. In this context, the factor has been that the key provisions in the proposal are dependent, in particular on the proposal on the Industrial Accelerator Act that was presented early March.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “We are now good. Dear colleagues, let us now turn to the AOB item requested by Spain regarding the results of 34 years of implementation of the live regulation and outlook. Spain. Yes, Sara. You have the floor.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-06-25 “While the presidency has worked intensively on that proposal. Two discussions are still in a relatively early stage. It is clear that an acceleration of discussions there would benefit progress on the CO2 standards proposal, as set out in the progress report. The presidency has focused on forging a compromise on those issues that are less contentious, notably on labelling. Here we are close and I am confident that it will be possible to close this soon so that we can focus efforts on the main political issues or the main outstanding political issues. We still have some way to go. We all share the same objective to provide the industry with a stable and predictable framework for decarbonising road transport, and for ensuring a strong, competitive and innovative automotive sector within Europe. However, on the way to get there, the the main takeaway from negotiations so far has clearly set out in. The progress report is that positions diverge widely. I will not go into the details while acknowledging that many nuances in your positions. I would like to highlight what I see as the two main approaches that have emerged from the discussion thus far. I would roughly summarize this as follows. One approach puts emphasis on flexibility for manufacturers and technological neutrality as key to help the industry decarbonising and maintaining competitiveness in these challenging times. The other approach underlines continuing the path and pace pace towards electrification as key for decarbonisation and future proofing competitiveness.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “Dear colleagues, the next AOB point was requested by the German, Danish, French, Dutch and Slovenian delegations. It concerns the need for a coordinated EU approach to tackle ultra fast fashion and information not prepared by the five delegations on the matter was circulated and I now pass the floor to Germany. Johann, you have the floor.”
  Sustainable fashion
• 2026-06-25 “First, to give 40 species new or upgraded protection. Second, new concerted actions and on new species focused action plans. Third, resolutions and decisions on the Earth's three primary Ecosystem domains, the aquatic and terrestrial areas, and on cross-cutting issues. I will just briefly mention a landmark resolution to to conserve ecosystems and a reaffirmation of the precautionary approach to deep sea mining. Also, a global initiative on taking of migratory species was launched. Overall, Cop15 produced several positive and concrete outcomes in the fight against biodiversity loss. We look forward to continuing along this path towards the next CMS. Cms Cop in 2029 in Germany, which marks the fifth anniversary of the convention. I will now give the floor to the commissioner. No. Okay, good. No interventions from the member states. Thank you very much. The Council took note of the main outcomes of the 15th meeting of the conference of the parties to the convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Life. Thank you very much. ***UNCCD COP 17”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Before the exchange of gifts, allow me to to conclude the work of the Environment Council and the Cyprus presidency. Um, we look back with pride on a period marked by close cooperation with all of you around this table, important achievements and the shared commitment to Europe's environment and climate agenda. I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the Cyprus presidency. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Member States, to the European Commission, to you, Commissioner, the General Secretariat of the Council, the European Parliament and all EU institutions and bodies for their constructive cooperation, dedication and support throughout these six months. I would also like to pay special tribute to the interpreters whose professionalism and commitment have ensured smooth and effective communication across all meetings and negotiations. The achievements of the of this presidency have been possible thanks to a collective effort to the collective efforts, expertise and spirit of partnership demonstrated by all of you. And for that, we are deeply grateful. Today, Europe faces unprecedented Environmental, economic and geopolitical challenges. Climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution continue to affect our citizens and economies, while geopolitical instability, energy security and global uncertainty test the resilience of our union. In this context, the Cyprus Presidency fully committed to bringing forward our common agenda. Water resilience has been one of the central priorities of our presidency. Through our work on the EU Water Resilience Strategy, we have promoted a more integrated approach to water management, focusing on efficiency, innovation, nature based solutions and climate adaptation and resilience.”
  EU policy on water management
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Commissioner. Thank you for the collaboration and for the leadership. The Council has taken note of the information provided by France, as well as the interventions by the commission and delegations. Uh, will now allow some time. Yeah. 40s to for the Commissioner to change. ***Implementation Global Stocktake: results and follow-up of the 1st conference on the transition away from fossil fuels”
  Fossil fuels
• 2026-06-25 “Discussions held during the informal council in Cyprus and today reaffirmed the importance of cross-border cooperation and coordinated action to address increasing water scarcity and climate related challenges across Europe. Climate policy has also remained at the forefront of our agenda. Significant work has been undertaken on key climate files, including discussions on the market stability reserve for ETS one reaching both a council mandate and agreement with the European Parliament on MSR for ETS two and a general approach. Sepa, as well as negotiations on CO2 emission standards for cars and vans. The council gave its political directions in view of the upcoming climate package for 2014. During our March, Council. Advancing the circular economy and reducing pollution have been equally important priorities. Discussions at the informal council highlighted the need to strengthen Europe's recycling sector, improve resource resource efficiency and create a robust market for secondary raw materials. Another important achievement has been progress on the EU bioeconomy strategy under our presidency. Member states reach agreement on council conclusions reaffirming the European Union's commitment to a sustainable and innovative bioeconomy. These conclusions highlight the importance of research, innovation, investment and cross-sectoral cooperation in supporting climate neutrality, resource efficiency and economic growth. At the same time, we have advanced discussions on the environmental omnibus package with the objective of reducing unnecessary administrative burdens while maintaining high levels of environmental protection. Simplification must support implementation and competitiveness without compromising our environmental ambitions. A partial general approach was achieved yesterday on three of the proposals of the omnibus. Another important priority of the Cyprus presidency relates to the negotiations with the European Parliament on the basic regulation for the European Chemicals agency.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU · Circular economy
• 2026-06-25 “Dear colleagues, let us now turn to the AOB item requested by France regarding the acceleration of permitting procedures as information. Note on this item has been. An information note on this item has been circulated. France. Cyril, the floor is yours.”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. The Council has taken note of the information provided by the Czech Republic, as well as the interventions by the Commission and delegations. ***Negotiations of the international treaty on plastic pollution”
  EU policy towards plastics
• 2026-06-25 “Now, dear colleagues who are more than an hour behind schedule and in view of the ten aobs ahead of us, I would like to kindly remind you that AOB points are information points only, and they are not meant to lead to extensive discussions. Please be concise and intervene only if absolutely necessary. Consider that we are fully aware of the content of your background notes for the AOB. Thank you. Now, um, dear colleagues, the next AOB item concerns the 15th meeting of the conference of the parties to the convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. This meeting was held in March in Campo Grande, Brazil, near some of the most important ecosystems in South America. The presidency and the Commission have prepared a detailed information note is the document 10878/26 outlining the main results. For this reason, I will highlight only the most notable ones under the theme Connecting Nature to Sustain Life. Cop15 took several important decisions to protect migratory wildlife.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you Commissioner. Um, no. Okay. Um, the Council has taken note of the information provided by the Commission. ***Addressing implementation challenges of the packaging and packaging waste Regulation”
  Re-use of packaging
• 2026-06-23 “Turn on the cameras and confirm to the secretary that the broadcast can proceed. The cameras have been turned off. Dear colleagues, our next item is under any other business. I will inform you of the outcomes of the 59th conference of directors of EU paying agencies, which was held in Nicosia at the end of May. The conference gathered more than a 100 participants. They were directors of all 27 paying agencies of the EU, agricultural representatives from Albania, Moldova, and North Macedonia. There were also representatives from the European Commission, from the European Anti Fraud Office and from the European Court of Auditors. During the conference, a large number of issues were discussed and you will find a detailed description in the document, which was circulated under number 10,400 fourtwenty 6. Discussions focused on the implementation of the current CAP, the strategic role of paying agencies in ensuring an effective management of European funds and the importance of cooperation between member states in achieving the goals set. In this context, discussions also focused on the use of different control mechanisms. At the same time, the conference also focused on the importance of the CAP in relation to rural development. The Cyprus presidency presented examples of how support to vine growers contributed to developing rural areas in Cyprus, highlighting the direct impact of this support. I would like to thank all the participants for their fruitful contributions. I see that certain colleagues would like to take the floor on this item. Let me remind you that you have 1 minute. France, Annie, for her for Annie, you have the floor.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-06-23 “Thank you very much, commissioner. We look forward to the text that you referred to. Dear colleagues, thank you very much for your comments. Let me formally conclude this item on the agenda. The council took note of the information provided by the presidency on the outcome of the conference of directors of EU paying agencies. The council also took note of the comments from the delegations and from the commission. We will now close and end the public session.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-06-23 “Thank you very much, Annie. Yes. This is a matter that concerns a number of member states. I don't know if any other colleague would like to take the floor. Otherwise, I will give the floor to the commissioner. Slovenia. Have you raised your flag? It's not clear if you would like to take the floor. Then let me give the floor to the commissioner. Commissioner, you have the floor.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much. Thank you Commissioner. Thank you, dear colleagues. The Council has taken notes of the comments made by the delegations and encourages the Commission to take into account the guidance received today in your future work, which which will naturally follow from the evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy. The ministers had the opportunity to raise their concerns to express their comments and opinions. The discussion confirmed that the basic objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy are pivotal. They. We also heard, though, that the CFP will need to focus on first improving the effectiveness and efficiency and the practical implementation of existing tools. We heard that there are objectives and goals that need to be taken within the framework of the CFP, but these need to be realistic. They need to be implementable, and they need to look consider the socio economic and other factors and realities of the fisheries sector. They need the solutions that will come about, need to complement each other, so that we can guarantee a more balanced approach in terms of environmental and socio economic objectives of the Common fisheries policy, and also take into account the consequences of climate change. We also heard of the broad based support for the regulatory framework. The ministers welcomed the work of the Commission and especially as regards the multiannual Plans and the fund. The MFF. Fab. And I beg your pardon. The omnibus packages were also considered and examined, and also the implementation policies that are needed for the CFP, including all of those control and monitoring systems and actions that need to be undertaken. Thirdly, there was we learned that there needs to be a reexamination of the CFP, especially in the framework of the evaluation and especially the balance that needs to be struck between fishing opportunities and fishing capacity.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Let me now inform you of the state of play of two legislative files under the AOB items of today's agenda. These two files have been subject of intensive work during the Cyprus presidency. The first concerns the regulation on the production and marketing of plant radioactive material. You have received information on the work done on this dossier in document 10718/26. I am pleased to inform you that last week, during an informal political trilogue, a provisional agreement was reached with the European Parliament on this regulation. This trilogue resulted in a balanced compromise that preserves the core objectives of the Commission's original proposal, together with the majority of the Council's mandate. It is an important step forward in modernizing a legislative framework that has remained largely unchanged since the 1960s. Several existing sector specific directors will be replaced with a single harmonised regulation to create a more flexible, innovation friendly and environmentally resilient system. In this way, we will be creating a simpler and clearer set of rules for the entire European Union. In this way, divergences in implementation will be reduced and a level playing field will be ensured. The new rules aim to increase agrobiodiversity, support conservation and locally adapted varieties, and provide greater flexibility for professionals.”
  Sustainable use of seeds in EU policy
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Commissioner. Thank you. Dear colleagues. Let me formally conclude our discussion as follows. The Council took note of the information provided by Romania and Slovakia, supported by Croatia, Czechia and Finland. The council also took note of the comments and remarks from the delegations and from the Commission. I would now ask the technicians to.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• 2026-06-22 “The aim is to ensure that PRM, which is placed on the EU market, Is of high and reliable quality, and that it has been adapted to the environmental and climate challenges Europe is facing. Furthermore. It is expected to reduce administrative burden for for competent authorities and operators through harmonised procedures, clearer responsibilities and digital documentation. The provisional agreement must still be endorsed by the Council and the Parliament before it is formally adopted and enters into force. It will only start to apply for years from now or from then. The second item concerns the proposed regulation on the protection of animals during transport and related operations. You will find information on the work done on that dossier in document 1039026. The proposed regulation on animal transport is intended to replace the current legislation, which was established more than 20 years ago. As you can all understand, since then, there have been many developments, both in science on one hand, on the one hand, but also in transport and trading practices on the other. Therefore, the legislation needs to be updated. The time is ripe. The subject is complex as it contains the interests of animal breeders, traders and animal welfare, which are not always aligned. The leading objective of our work on this file has been to strike a balance between these interests. I hope that you can agree that we have made considerable progress in this direction. Dear Commissioner, dear Oliver, would you like to comment?”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Commissioner. Dear colleagues. This is an item under any other business. As such. Please limit your comments to one minute. I see that some of you would like to take the floor. Let me give the floor to Spain, then France, and then Finland. Luis, you have the floor.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-22 “Dear colleagues. We will begin today's discussion on fisheries with the annual report from the Commission regarding the current state of play regarding the Common Fisheries Policy and the orientations for the fishing opportunities for the year 2027. This is the first step in the yearly process of setting Tacs and quotas. The communication reports on the main developments in the sector and sets out the Commission's approach to. As regards its proposals on the fishing opportunities for the next year. I would like to call upon the Commissioner to present this communication. After that, you will have the opportunity, dear colleagues, to express your views. Views on the approach suggested by the Commission with regards to setting fishing opportunities. In addition to having the opportunity to highlight your opportunity, your priorities for this year's exercise. Exercise. Costas. You have the floor.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Commissioner. Thank you for your kind words. Thank you for joining us today. At this point, I would like to ask the technicians to turn off the cameras. The Council Secretariat when the when we are streaming. Thank you very much, dear colleagues. ***Production and marketing of plant reproductive material in the EU + Protecting animals during transport”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• 2026-06-22 “Can proceed. It's okay. Dear colleagues, the next item on our agenda is an any other business point concerning the proposal. The proposed regulation establishing the conditions for the implementation of union support to the Common Fisheries Policy, the European Ocean Pact and of the Union Maritime and Aquaculture Policy for the period 2028 to 2034. The presidency has shared a note on the topic, which you received in document ST10691/26. As we are always acting as an honest broker, the presidency has listened to your calls that this file is not yet ready for a partial general approach. The Cyprus presidency has devoted much effort to finding balanced solutions to address Member States concerns while maintaining coherence with the overall architecture of the future MFF framework. I would like to thank all delegations for their contributions and the Commission services for their explanations and replies to questions. Through our joint efforts, we strengthened the focus on the Common Fisheries Policy. We have made significant progress in clarifying the proposed framework and tailoring the sectoral proposal to the needs of our fisheries and aquaculture sector. In our proposed compromise text, we have in particular ensured a focus on support to the Common Fisheries Policy, a central common policy of the Union, as well as highlighting the importance of funding for the aquaculture sector, stressed the importance of continued support for fisheries control and data collection, as this is a legal obligation for Member States under union law and essential for sustainable fisheries.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Simplification, predictability of fishing opportunities, the competitiveness of the sector, generational renewal, fleet modernisation and the external dimension of the policy were at the heart of our debates. The debate that we had during the March Council on the energy transition of the sector and the activation of the support mechanism of the European Maritime Fisheries and Agriculture Fund, have shown that the policy can respond immediately to challenges without losing its long term orientation. Before concluding, I would like to thank and I'm obliged to do so. So I would like to warmly thank our trio partners, Poland and Denmark. I would like to thank all Member States, the European Commission, the General Secretariat of the Council and the European Parliament for their excellent cooperation. Special thanks to Commissioner Cadis and his entire team for their exceptional and excellent work and cooperation. He is willing to listen. He is always present. He's happy to help us, willing to help us, and always does this by standing beside us. And he does so with by helping us to find positive steps forward. I'd like to thank our team, my team in Cyprus, in Brussels, I apologize and to the permanent to the permanent representatives. A speaker is emotional. Debate on the future. The reform of the Common Fisheries policy has just begun. We are now passing the baton to the Irish Presidency with the certainty that the work that we have started will continue, and that the momentum that has been created in the last six months will help help shape the next generation of Europe's fisheries policy. Thank you very much. Let me give the floor to the Commissioner for any comments he may have.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Dear colleagues, we now are moving on to the next AOB and today's agenda, which has to do with fisheries, European fisheries in Western Africa, future perspectives and the next steps to be taken. This will be discussed in public session. Latvia has provided an information note, which you will find in document 1071126. Let me now give the floor to Latvia which will be giving us information about this information. This point you have the floor.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you Catherine. Just a few words on the on the suite we offer today. The PGI product is a suite. We. We offer to the weddings. The white color symbolizes the US. And hopefully as people unite in. In a wedding for a happy life, let's unite forces today for a better CFP. Uh. Now I would like to give the floor to Italy. Following by Portugal. Luigi, you have the floor.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues, for the next item on today's agenda. The Commission has asked that we add, under any other business, the opportunity to inform you about the next ministerial declaration made fish forever. The Commission has sent an information note on this point. You can find it under document 1069026. I would like to invite the Commissioner to present the subject, dear. Costas, you have the floor.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you Commissioner. Thank you. Costa. Dear colleagues, I would like now to open the floor for your interventions. Uh, just a kind reminder that the interventions are limited to two minutes. I will first give the floor to Spain, followed by France. Luis, you have the floor.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-22 “This also needs to take into account the landing obligation, and the goal needs to be find a system that is more implementable. Last another point, and that is that the multiannual plans and the fishing opportunities need to be more stable and provide more stability within the sector, avoiding any fluctuations, which of course are to the detriment of the fisheries sector, to the detriment of investments and generational renewal. As for aquaculture, many member states have mentioned that this needs to be a strategic priority of the European Union. There needs to be a simplification and an acceleration of funding and other measures within the aquaculture sector. Lastly, many ministers highlighted that the future common fisheries policy will have to simplify the renewal and modernisation of fleets, energy transition and the attraction, and attracting new fishers to the sector. They need to be in a significant and sufficient financial resources based also on the ambitions of the sector, which the sector will need, especially when it comes to small scale fishing in coastal communities in far off coastal communities and taking into account also geopolitical pressures. There are many expectations, as you have heard, Commissioner, the member states. We want you to take swift action and put forward concrete proposals as swiftly as possible. ***MedFish4Ever”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Commissioner. Thank you colleagues. Let me conclude this item as follows. The Council took note of the information provided by Belgium, supported by Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal and Sweden. On BSE monitoring in Europe and the alignment with the criteria of the WOAH. The council also took note of the comments and remarks made by other delegations and the Commission on this item. ***Bear population”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Luis. Let me remind you that this is an AOB. An information point. I see that there are some colleagues, though, who would like to take the floor. Let me give the floor to Belgium, then Spain, and then Greece. Hilda, you have the floor.”
  EU public communication strategy
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, dear Commissioner. Thank you colleagues. So let me conclude that the Council heard the information provided by the by Germany with the support of Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Sweden. On the implementability of EU control measures to maintain the competitiveness of the European fisheries market. The Council also took note of the comments made by the delegations. ***West Africa sustainable fisheries partnership agreements (SFPAs)”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much. Dear Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues. I can see that already four flags have been raised. Let me remind you that this is an A or B item. As such. Please adhere to the one minute time limit. Let me give the floor to Greece and Spain and then Italy. Margaritis, you have the floor.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much. Thank you, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues. So let me conclude that the Council has taken note of the information provided by the Commission regarding the preparation of the next Mid Fish Forever ministerial decision declaration. The Council has also taken note of the comments made by the delegations. ***Implementability of EU control measures”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Cameras and please confirm that you have done so to the General Secretariat. Thank you very much. We can continue. So we will continue. We have another point item on the agenda regarding fisheries. It has to do with the evaluation of the regulation on the CFP by the Commission. This is in document 9570/1/26 revised. The Commission has held a first exchange of opinions during the informal meeting that was held in Nicosia in May on the 5th of May, and that was followed by the publication of the evaluation document on the 30th of April. In the weeks that followed, the presidency prepared the background paper, which, as I stated, is under document 9570126 Rev one and that is on the evaluation with two policy questions to help our discussions today. Your answers to these two questions will help the Council to and act as a sort of political guidance for the future steps to be undertaken, thus moving from more of a diagnostic phase to an action phase. So once the commission has presented its evaluation, ministers will express their feedback regarding the evaluation and answer on the two main policy questions which were posed in the presidency paper. The first issue has to do with how the CFP can be more effective and deliver in a more effective and balanced way the objectives that it has that are both environmental, economic and social. The second issue is how the c, f p can better respond to evolving challenges and future needs and requirements. I will first give the floor to the commission. So, dear Commissioner Costas, you have the floor.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Commissioner. Thank you, dear colleagues. Very quickly, the Council took note of the information provided by Latvia on European fisheries in Western Africa. Future perspectives and the next steps to be taken. The council also took note of the comments made by the delegations. Dear colleagues, dear Commissioner. Given that this is the last Council together and because we are ending with the fisheries items right now, let me please summarise the achievements that we have made in the fisheries sector. We are completing the work of the Council on Fisheries under the Cyprus Presidency, and as such we can say that a lot of progress has been made in the last six months. We have drawn up agreements with the or rather, we have worked intensively to coordinate union positions and rather different management organizations. Fisheries management organizations have approved the work that we have done. The international scope of fisheries has been one of the greatest challenges of our presidency. Despite the difficulties, we managed to ensure continuity and predictability for the European fishing fleet, and we promoted important Sustainable Fisheries Partnership agreements, which are a key pillar of the external scope of the Common Fisheries Policy. Furthermore, we devoted time and effort to the future financing of the CFP through the negotiations on the new Multiannual financial framework, we increase the visibility of fisheries and aquaculture. We upgraded the importance of control and data collection and contributed to the. So that the proposals discussed today can double the specific financial dossier for fisheries from 2 billion to 4 billion, and also mandatory support for control and data collection needs. There was also a debate, which we started on the future of the Common Fisheries policy, and this was of particular importance. Based on the Commission's assessment, we sought to examine how the policy can best respond to new challenges.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Dear colleagues, let's move on now in a public session with the next AOB related to fisheries, this is an item proposed by Germany, supported by Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Sweden. The item addresses the implementability of EU control measures to maintain the competitiveness of the European fisheries market. You have received a background note on the subject. It is available in document 1053826. I would like to invite Germany Alois to present the item. Alois, you have the floor.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, Martin. Dear Commissioner, would you like to comment? No. Dear colleagues, dear Commissioner, the Council has taken note of the information provided by the presidency on the state of play of the regulation on the production marketing of plant reproductive material and on the protection of animals during transport. The council has also taken note of the remarks by the delegations and by the Commission. ***Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) monitoring”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• 2026-06-22 “Clarified the rules of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies adopted at the WTO 12th Ministerial Conference in June 2022 and in force since 15th September 2025. Clarified the provisions on admissibility of applications, as well as rules on recovery and adjusted rules for certain types of operations to align them with other policy fields, and in view of facilitating facilitating generational generational renewal, and included rules for investments in fishing vessels. In parallel, we secured important improvements in the horizontal negotiations on the National and Regional Partnership Fund. This included strengthening CF specific provisions, separate references to fisheries, aquaculture and maritime interventions, broader recognition of fisheries and aquaculture priorities, the inclusion of an obligation for Member States to support the implementation of the Union Fisheries Control System and Fisheries data collection, as well as the inclusion of fisheries and aquaculture among the sectors eligible to benefit from union crisis support mechanisms, as in the case of the agriculture sector. At the same time, we actively promoted the interests of the sector in the wider MFF negotiations and in particular in the negotiating box to be decided by the leaders where the proposals currently under discussion foresee a substantial Increase in the CFP ring fenced amount compared to the Commission's initial proposal from 2 billion to 4 billion. These envelopes, together with the safeguards incorporates for fisheries control and data collection, could bring the fisheries budget for the new programmi**Cyprus @Chair”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you Timmy. Um, thank you, colleagues, for your interventions, Commissioner DeCosta. Would you like to react? No. Okay. Okay. Well, um, it is clear from today's discussion that substantial progress has been achieved with the aim to provide support for our fisheries and aquaculture sector and safeguard the implementation of objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy. All of you recognise that the text has significantly improved and that is a good basis for further work. You also welcomed with appreciation the doubling of the funding for the CFP in the next box to be decided by the leaders. It is also evident that we are now very close to reaching a partial general approach, while a limited number of issues still require further clarification. Today's exchange has provided valuable political guidance on the way forward. One of the issues highlighted by most of you relate to the modernisation and renewal of the fleet, an issue on which Commissioner Kadis suggested to introduce some conditions. Others raised issues of the overall MFF architecture and the Interlinkages, with other files such as the performance regulation, and they do no significant harm principle. I therefore intend to continue our efforts with bilateral discussions during the day to further clarify the remaining outstanding issues and work with all delegations and the Commission with a view to reach an agreement as soon as possible. The presidency remains fully committed to advancing this file until the very last day of our mandate. Thank you. The council took note of the presentation by the presidency on the state of play concerning the proposal of the establishment of conditions for the implementation of Union support to the Common Fisheries Policy, the European Ocean Pact and of the Union Maritime and Aquaculture Policy 2028 to 2034, as well as of the interventions by ministers and the Commissioner. I will now continue in Greek. ***Sustainable fishing for 2027”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture