EU leaders meet in Nicosia for informal summit on regional stability and energy

On April 24, 2026, European Union leaders held an informal summit in Nicosia, Cyprus, under the Cypriot Presidency. The meeting focused on the regional impact of the Middle East conflict, rising energy costs, and the need for stronger defense cooperation. Participants discussed the EU's proposed 'toolbox' to mitigate energy crises and emphasized the transition to clean, domestic energy sources. EU leaders held expanded working sessions with counterparts from Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon, and the Gulf Cooperation Council to promote stability. Council President Antonio Costa called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, while President Nikos Christodoulides stressed the need for a standardized manual for the Article 42.7 mutual defense clause. The agenda also covered the Multiannual Financial Framework, with the Cypriot Presidency set to present numerical data at the upcoming June summit. Furthermore, officials signed the 'One Europe, One Market' roadmap and addressed migration issues. Leaders welcomed a ceasefire extension with Iran but stressed that diplomacy remains the only viable long-term solution for the region.