Informal EU cohesion policy meeting held in Nicosia

The informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for Cohesion Policy took place in Nicosia on June 5, 2026, as part of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU. The session was chaired by the Cypriot Minister of Finance, Makis Keravnos, with Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Raffaele Fitto, representing the European Commission. Delegations from all 27 EU Member States participated, along with representatives from EFTA countries, the European Parliament, the European Court of Auditors, the European Investment Bank, the Committee of the Regions, and the European Economic and Social Committee. The first session focused on the role of Cohesion Policy in fostering regional growth and employment opportunities. The second part addressed specific challenges faced by island regions, discussing how European policies can support their sustainable development. This discussion preceded the announcement of the forthcoming EU Strategy for Islands, which is scheduled to be presented on June 26 during a high-level meeting in Paphos. Cohesion Policy remains the primary long-term investment tool for the European Union, significantly influencing regional resilience.