EU leaders pleased to move forward with loan package already pledged to Ukraine
The informal meeting of heads of state or government in Cyprus on 23–24 April focused on the current geopolitical situation and the proposal for the EU’s next multiannual financial framework.
The informal European Council began with a discussion with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Earlier that day, the Council ä' confirmed that Ukraine would finally receive the EUR 90 billion loan package agreed in December and had adopted the 20th package of sanctions against Russia.
“The change of power in Hungary means we can now move forward with the loan package for Ukraine and the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. The changeover in Hungary marks a major turning point in the work of the European Council,” said Prime Minister Orpo.
“Importantly, we will soon be able to open the next stage of EU accession negotiations with Ukraine. Ukraine is a part of the European family. We must continue our strong support for Ukraine, both militarily and otherwise,” Prime Minister Orpo emphasised.
On the first day of the meeting, the European Council also discussed the situation in the Middle East and its impact on Europe, as well as the EU’s ability to respond to various global crises.
The main topic of discussion on Friday was the proposal for the EU’s next multiannual financial framework, which will serve as the Union’s long-term financial plan for 2028–2034. The EU leaders offered political guidance on how to proceed in the preparatory discussions over the coming months.
“The EU needs a modern, flexible solution that can meet future needs. Our most important priorities should be European defence and competitiveness. That said, the overall level of the proposed framework is too high,” said Prime Minister Orpo.
On the second day of the meeting, the EU leaders met with representatives of four countries in the Union’s Southern Neighbourhood: Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan and Syria. Discussions focused on the situation in the Middle East, and the leaders sought common views and explored emerging opportunities for cooperation.
The Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU hosted the informal meeting in two different locations. The meeting started on Thursday in Agia Napa and continued on Friday in Lefkosia.
Inquiries: Elisa Tarkiainen, Special Adviser (EU Affairs), tel. +358 295 160 363, Minna Kivimäki, State Secretary for EU Affairs, tel. +358 295 160 431 and Anne Sjöholm, Head of Communications for EU Affairs, tel. +358 40 537 0733, Prime Minister’s Office