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Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides is seeking control of a newly proposed role within the European Commission, aimed at overseeing EU policy for the Mediterranean region.
In an interview with POLITICO on Tuesday, Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus's significant contributions to maritime affairs and other regional issues, positioning a Cypriot candidate as ideal for the role.
The new portfolio, introduced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will focus on economic affairs, human trafficking, and migration flows from North Africa.
"We can contribute to matters related to shipping and the Mediterranean," Christodoulides stated. He added that von der Leyen’s decision to create a dedicated Mediterranean portfolio followed lobbying efforts by Cyprus. "It was our encouragement that led the Commission President to see the need for a commissioner dedicated exclusively to this."
Christodoulides emphasized the importance of understanding the scope and responsibilities of the Mediterranean portfolio. "We need to see in practice what this portfolio means, what the powers are, what the responsibilities are, and what the extent of engagement will be," he said, noting that he has discussed other portfolios with von der Leyen as well.
In the coming weeks, von der Leyen will assess and appoint candidates for the new Commission. EU governments have been asked to submit names, which will be interviewed before selections are made. Negotiations are ongoing behind closed doors regarding which countries will secure the most influential positions in the revamped Commission.
Christodoulides underscored the necessity for his government to secure a "significant" portfolio. "We are no longer a new member state; we have 20 years of experience, we have held a presidency, and in the first half of 2026, we will hold our second Council of the EU presidency. We now seek a portfolio where we believe the representative of the Republic of Cyprus can add value," he asserted.
