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Cyprus Prepares For 2026 EU Presidency With Vision For A Stronger Europe

Cyprus is gearing up to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, a pivotal opportunity to reinforce its role as a strategic bridge between Europe and the broader region. President Nikos Christodoulides, presenting the Official Governance Agenda 2025 at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday, outlined the government’s priorities as it prepares for this crucial leadership role.

A Presidency Beyond Agenda Management

The Cypriot government, Christodoulides emphasized, is not approaching the EU Presidency as a mere administrative task but as a chance to actively shape policies and drive solutions that benefit Europe. The focus will be on deepening European integration and enhancing the EU’s strategic autonomy, ensuring a more resilient, competitive, and united Europe.

“Our objective is a Presidency that goes beyond managing the European agenda,” the President stated. “We aim to act as an honest mediator, shaping policies with tangible actions, not just rhetoric, and advancing common European interests.”

Strengthening Cyprus’ Global Engagement

Looking ahead to 2025, the government plans to expand its diplomatic, strategic, and development partnerships, particularly with nations where Cyprus currently lacks a diplomatic presence. This will be achieved through educational and humanitarian diplomacy, spearheaded by the upgraded Cyprus Aid agency.

Highlighting Cyprus’ growing role on the international stage, Christodoulides reaffirmed the country’s commitment to reinforcing bilateral relations with African nations, working closely with fellow EU member states to institutionalize cooperation and foster meaningful partnerships.

Cyprus: A Reliable And Proactive EU Partner

The 2026 EU Presidency, Christodoulides stressed, is more than a symbolic leadership role—it is an opportunity for Cyprus to demonstrate its value as a dependable and proactive EU member state.

“Cyprus is not just a participant but a core contributor to the Union’s future—a reliable, results-driven partner that strengthens Europe with action, not just words,” he affirmed.

As preparations accelerate, Cyprus positions itself as a key player in shaping Europe’s trajectory, reinforcing its strategic importance and commitment to a stronger, more united European Union.

TikTok Returns To US App Stores 

TikTok is once again available for download in the Apple and Google app stores in the US, following a delay in the enforcement of its ban by former President Donald Trump. The ban’s postponement until April 5 gives the administration additional time to evaluate the situation.

Key Developments

The decision to restore TikTok access came after Google and Apple received reassurances from the Trump administration that they would not face legal consequences for reinstating the Chinese-owned app. According to Bloomberg, US Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a letter outlining these guarantees.

In an executive order signed on January 20, Trump instructed the attorney general not to take enforcement action for 75 days, providing time for his administration to determine how to proceed.

Uncertain Future For TikTok In The US

While TikTok is back on the US app stores, its long-term survival remains uncertain. If no deal is reached by early April to address national security concerns, the app may face another shutdown. ByteDance, the parent company, has insisted that TikTok is not for sale.

Legislation And Pressure On ByteDance

The Protecting Americans from Foreign Enemy-Controlled Apps Act, which passed with bipartisan support in Congress, mandates a nationwide ban on TikTok unless ByteDance sells its US operations. This law was signed by President Joe Biden in April of last year.

In late January, the app was briefly removed from US stores following the ban’s activation, impacting over 170 million American users. However, TikTok was restored soon after, following Trump’s intervention in his first hours as president. During that time, he signed an executive order allowing 75 days for a deal that would safeguard national security. Trump also suggested that the US could take a 50% stake in TikTok, a move he believed would keep the app “in good hands.”

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