NICOSIA — European Council President Antonio Costa said Monday that countries threatening the security of EU member states should not be allowed to benefit from the bloc’s SAFE program, a financial mechanism aimed at strengthening defense and resilience.
Costa made the remarks during a visit to Cyprus, where he met with President Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace.
The two leaders discussed key priorities ahead of Cyprus’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, set to begin in April 2026.
“This presidency comes at a critical moment for Europe,” Costa said, adding that the EU is counting on Cyprus to help manage major challenges facing the bloc. He emphasized the importance of unity and direct dialogue among member states, regardless of size.
Christodoulides welcomed Costa’s visit, calling it an opportunity for open exchange and cooperation. He said Cyprus aims to act as an honest broker during its presidency, promoting European integration, strategic autonomy, and stronger responses to global challenges.
The leaders also discussed issues related to competitiveness, climate policy, and regional stability, with Costa highlighting Cyprus’s strategic role in engaging with the Middle East.