Brussels, Belgium. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos on Tuesday presented the programme of the Cyprus Presidency of the European Union Council at the first meeting of EU finance ministers in Brussels under Cyprus’ term. Separately, the Larnaca Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the city’s tourism outlook for 2026 is “very positive”.
Cyprus presidency programme presented in Brussels
Keravnos said the slogan of the presidency is “A self-reliant union open to the world”. He said Cyprus is “committed to delivering an ambitious and impactful presidency” and pledged to “create momentum towards a prosperous and more competitive Europe”.
He said Cyprus is taking over the presidency at a time of international geopolitical realignments and uncertainty, with the European Union facing multiple challenges. In economic and financial affairs, he said strengthening the European Union’s economic autonomy and reinforcing its economic position will be core principles for the next six months.
Larnaca tourism outlook for 2026
The president of the Larnaca Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nakis Antoniou, said the tourism outlook for Larnaca in 2026 is shaping up as “very positive”. He said the assessment reflects growing investor interest, infrastructure upgrades and the city’s longer-term cultural momentum.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) on the sidelines of the Chamber’s annual general meeting, Antoniou said the designation of Larnaca as European Capital of Culture for 2030 is expected to further strengthen the city’s appeal, adding that the title will help increase the attraction of tourists.
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