Yerevan, Armenia. President Nikos Christodoulides on Monday called for stronger collective European action to combat drugs, describing the issue as a key priority of Cyprus’ presidency of the EU council. He spoke during a thematic discussion titled European Coalition to Combat Drugs at the European Political Community summit.
Call for coordinated measures
Christodoulides stressed the need for coordinated efforts to tackle the illicit trade, particularly through European ports. Addressing fellow leaders, he underlined the importance of enhancing joint action to disrupt trafficking networks and improve port security and maritime surveillance across Europe.
EU strategy and prevention
He referred to the EU’s updated drugs strategy, adopted by the Council in March under the Cypriot presidency, and to ongoing efforts to implement the bloc’s action plan. Christodoulides said prevention must remain a central pillar of policy alongside enforcement measures.
Proposals and joint declaration
During the discussion, French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni presented specific proposals. The two leaders had previously spearheaded the creation of the European Coalition Against Drugs (ECAD) at a summit in Copenhagen.
Cyprus is among the countries endorsing a joint declaration focusing on three main pillars: combating trafficking, particularly by sea; tackling financial crime; and reducing demand.
What steps do you think European countries should prioritise to improve port security and reduce drug demand?