**Costa to Visit Cyprus as Part of ‘Tour des Capitales’**
Nicosia, Cyprus – European Council President Antonio Costa is set to arrive in Cyprus from September 1 to 4 as part of his annual ‘Tour des Capitales’. This tour aims to engage with various European leaders on key issues including defense, competitiveness, EU enlargement, and support for Ukraine.
Costa’s visit to Cyprus follows his engagements in Greece and is part of a broader initiative to gather insights from heads of state and government across Europe. The discussions will focus particularly on the multiannual financial framework and the preparations for upcoming European councils and international summits.
In a statement, Costa emphasized the importance of these exchanges, stating, “These exchanges provide a vital 360-degree view of member states’ priorities and expectations, ensuring that the work of the European Council continues to reflect Europe’s realities.” His remarks underline the significance of understanding the diverse perspectives of EU member states in shaping effective policies.
Prior to his arrival in Cyprus, Costa will be meeting with several leaders in different capitals. On Tuesday, he is scheduled to meet Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal in Bratislava. The following day, he will travel to Riga to engage with Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, before proceeding to Vilnius for discussions with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda. His tour will conclude on Thursday with a meeting with Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš in Prague.
Costa’s visit to Kyiv on Monday, where he participated in the Coalition of the Willing summit representing the EU, highlights the ongoing focus on Ukraine amidst the geopolitical challenges in the region. Earlier, he met with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham during their train journey to Kyiv, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence celebrations.
As Costa visits Cyprus, there is anticipation regarding the discussions that will take place, particularly in light of Cyprus's strategic position within the EU and its unique geopolitical context. The outcomes of these meetings could have implications for future EU policies and initiatives, especially regarding defense and support for Ukraine.
This year’s ‘Tour des Capitales’ is particularly significant as it occurs against a backdrop of evolving challenges in Europe, necessitating robust dialogue among member states. Costa’s engagements aim to foster collaboration and ensure that the European Council remains responsive to the pressing issues facing the continent.
The visit to Cyprus is expected to draw attention from various sectors, including government officials, policymakers, and the public, as they look to understand the implications of Costa’s discussions and the potential impact on Cyprus and the broader European Union.