European Council President António Costa is set to undertake a key diplomatic trip beginning 6 January, with stops in Paris, Nicosia, and the Middle East,
aimed at bolstering European and international partnerships.
Paris: Coalition of the Willing on Ukraine
On 6 January, President Costa will attend the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris, where leaders will evaluate ongoing negotiations aimed at establishing a framework for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, advancing security guarantees, and coordinating further support.
In December 2025, the European Council approved a €90 billion loan to Ukraine to cover financial needs for 2026-2027, which Ukraine will repay only once Russia compensates for the damages caused by its war of aggression.
Cyprus: opening ceremony of EU Council presidency
Costa will then travel to Nicosia on 7 January to deliver a speech at the opening ceremony of Cyprus’ rotating six-month presidency of the Council of the EU.
"I look forward to working closely together with Cyprus in the upcoming six months to build a more resilient and stronger Europe," said Costa.
This marks Cyprus’ second term holding the rotating presidency. Their motto for the next six months is “An autonomous Union – open to the world.” Cyprus will also host an informal EU leaders’ meeting on 23–24 April 2026. The presidency rotates every six months, chairing meetings across the Council to ensure continuity of EU work. Costa’s speech will be delivered around 5pm Brussels time and live-streamed on EBS.
Middle East: strengthening EU-Jordan ties and regional engagement
On 8 January, Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will travel to Amman for the inaugural EU-Jordan summit, meeting King Abdullah II to deepen political and economic ties and discuss global challenges including Ukraine, Middle East security, trade, and migration.
"Jordan is a strategic partner for the European Union and plays a pivotal role in the Middle East. The EU deeply values Jordan’s leadership and its generosity in sheltering Syrian refugees for over a decade. Our first ever bilateral summit will provide a great opportunity to strengthen our partnership and tackle shared challenges in these turbulent times," Costa said.
The summit is scheduled to begin at 12pm Brussels time, with opening remarks live-streamed on EBS.
On 9 January, Presidents Costa and von der Leyen will continue their Middle East visit with stops in Syria and Lebanon. Photo by