From North to South: Transition of the Presidency of the Council of the EU

The Institute for Politics and Society invites you to a business breakfast From North to South: Transition of the Presidency of the Council of the EU , which will be held on January 16th in Prague.

Speakers:
H. E. Aliki Pascali
H. E. Søren Kelstrup
Ivo Šlosarčík
Ondřej Matoušek
Moderated by:
Irena Krcháková

As Denmark completes its presidency of the Council of the European Union, Cyprus is preparing to take on this role for the upcoming term of office, which will start in January 2026. Danish leadership solidified Europe’s resilience, advancing EU enlargement, and reinforcing security cooperation. The presidency championed ambitious climate goals and bolstered economic competitiveness, all while prioritizing social inclusion and crisis preparedness. In navigating complex geopolitical challenges, Denmark’s leadership aimed to leave a foundation for a stronger and more united Europe.

The priorities of the Cypriot Presidency build on Danish leadership and focus on two main objectives. The first is to strengthen the strategic autonomy and competitiveness of the European Union. The second objective is to enhance the EU’s role in its immediate neighbourhood and deepen relations with key regional partners, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. In this way, Cyprus aims to further develop Denmark’s efforts in promoting social inclusion, economic resilience, and the overall stability of the Union.

What were the key achievements and challenges of the Danish Presidency? How can Cyprus ensure continuity as it pursues its own strategic priorities? Can the handover of the Presidency strengthen the European project and help meet the urgent challenges facing the Union today?
Confirmed speakers:
H. E. Aliki Pascali, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Czech Republic

H. E. Søren Kelstrup, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to the Czech Republic

Ivo Šlosarčík, Professor, Department of European Studies, Charles University

Ondřej Matoušek, Deputy Director-General of the Section for European Affairs, Government of the Czech Republic

The moderator of the business breakfast is Irena Krcháková, an analyst of the Institute for Politics and Society.

The business breakfast will be held on January 16th, 2026, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. The working language is English.

The event is by invitation only. Participation in the business breakfast is possible only after successful registration previously confirmed by the organizer.