Nicosia, Cyprus. European cooperation in combating crime delivers tangible results, Justice Minister Costas Fytiris said on Monday at the 148th meeting of the Europol Management Board in Nicosia. The two-day meeting was held at the Filoxenia conference centre as part of Cyprus’ rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Meeting in Nicosia
Fytiris said hosting the event was a special honour for Cyprus and noted that it coincided with the completion of the country’s 18-month term in the position of deputy directorship of the Europol Management Board.
Cyprus representation
Since January 2025, Maria Charalambous of Cyprus has served as Deputy Director of the European Union and International Police Cooperation Directorate. Cyprus is also represented on the Europol Management Board by chief inspector Charalambos Philippides.
Security challenges
According to Fytiris, technological developments and the spread of criminal rings have created an environment requiring vigilance, coordination and constant investment in collective capacity to prevent and respond to threats.
He said areas in which European cooperation produces results include combating serious and organised crime, addressing terrorism, protecting children from internet-related risks, dealing with cyber-attacks and investigating new forms of criminality.
Role of technology and Europol
Fytiris said artificial intelligence, advanced data analysis tools and new technological applications are transforming law enforcement operations. He said Europol plays a leading role in supporting EU member states so they can use these capabilities effectively and in line with fundamental EU principles.
Police chief remarks
Police chief Themistos Arnaoutis also addressed the meeting and said the security environment is continuously changing.
