Nicosia, Cyprus. Meetings linked to Cyprus’ holding of the Council of the European Union’s rotating presidency are increasingly being held online, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East affects transport links with Europe.
Working-level meetings moved online
Cypriot presidency spokeswoman Stella Michael said many meetings of working groups, committees, and conferences are now being held online due to flight cancellations and difficulties in transporting participants to Cyprus.
In-person ministerial meetings still preferred
Michael said the Council of the EU prefers higher-level meetings, particularly among ministers from the bloc’s 27 member states, to continue face-to-face.
For informal ministerial meetings scheduled to take place in Cyprus, she said the dates are being examined for rearrangement so such meetings can continue in Cyprus when conditions allow.
Brussels meetings proceed as planned
Michael said ministerial meetings in Brussels are continuing as planned, including Thursday’s justice and home affairs council chaired by Cypriot Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides at the Europa building.
She added that while ministerial meetings could be held online, it is generally preferred they take place in person, and options are being examined to rearrange informal ministerial meetings so they can go ahead in person in Cyprus.
No plans to move meetings to other EU locations
Michael said there are currently no plans to move meetings out of Cyprus to take place elsewhere in the EU, adding that the focus is on rescheduling.
Diplomat warns of wider impact on EU agenda
Her comments followed a Politico report quoting a diplomat from an EU member state as saying the crisis in the Middle East and its secondary effects on Cyprus could change the EU’s entire agenda.
The diplomat said the consequences could be enormous for energy, transport, and migration, and that Cyprus’ plans for its presidency may have to follow.
How do you think travel disruptions could affect the EU’s ability to hold key meetings in person?