Focus on geopolitical challenges at the COSAC Chairs’ Meeting in Nicosia

Press release, 9 January 2026 (News ● Photos ● Broadcasts and videos)

On 11–12 January 2026, Ruslanas Baranovas, Deputy Chair of the Seimas Committee on European Affairs, took part in the meeting of the Chairs of the European Affairs Committees of the Parliaments of the Member States of the European Union (COSAC Chairs), held in Nicosia, Cyprus. This was the first parliamentary dimension event organised by Cyprus since it assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 January this year.

During the meeting, Cyprus presented its Presidency priorities, and discussions focused on current geopolitical challenges, including the weakening of the rules-based international order, growing geopolitical competition, and the changing security architecture. Participants also sought to assess the geopolitical tools available to the EU and the Union’s ability to act as a reliable and proactive global player capable of shaping its strategic environment rather than merely responding to crises.

Speaking about global unrest, Mr Baranovas stressed that Europe’s fate is largely being decided in Ukraine, which must therefore receive all possible support. ‘Enlargement is a strategic choice for the EU and a key instrument in responding to geopolitical challenges. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the next EU multiannual financial framework includes targeted funding for enlargement. In addition, we should move towards broader application of qualified majority voting in negotiations on EU membership, leaving unanimity only for the closure of individual negotiating chapters,’ Mr Baranovas said. He also emphasised that the negotiation process must be genuinely merit-based and that no candidate country should become a hostage to others.

The COSAC Conference brings together representatives of Committees of European Affairs in the EU Member States and the European Parliament. The aim of the COSAC Chairs’ meeting is to prepare for the COSAC plenary session. Chairs discuss current EU policy issues in light of the Presidency priorities and examine matters related to the involvement of national Parliaments in EU affairs.

Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU from 1 January to 30 June 2026.

Irina Valiulienė, Adviser, Office of the Seimas Committee on European Affairs, tel. +370 5 209 6862