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Cyprus Finance Minister Makis Keravnos and European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud, and Public Administration Piotr Serafin met Thursday to discuss EU support for Cyprus’ border protection and preparations for the country’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in January 2026.
The officials reviewed the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, which includes an ambitious budget nearly double previous periods and prioritizes defense, security, innovation, digital infrastructure, and support for Ukraine. Keravnos said the framework must remain flexible, sustainable, and fair to small and island member states.
Serafin, visiting Cyprus for the first time since the July budget proposal, said the Commission aims to support Cyprus in both its preparations and its six-month Presidency, highlighting the need for the EU to become more competitive, resilient, and capable of defending itself. He confirmed the Commission plans to at least double funding to help Cyprus protect its external borders.
Both officials emphasized Cyprus’ role as a mediator among EU member states and the importance of cooperation in achieving EU strategic goals.
On the GSI Interconnector project, Serafin stressed that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office operates independently, while Keravnos declined to comment further on the issue, noting earlier statements had already addressed his concerns.
