The handover of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from Cyprus to Ireland in July 2026 represents the continuation of the European agenda in the hands of smaller Member States. Each presidency offers an opportunity to highlight specific priorities, influence EU negotiations, and strengthen the country’s diplomatic visibility within the Union. The discussion will focus on the role that the rotating presidency plays today in shaping the direction of European integration, what can be expected from the Irish approach, and how the Czech Republic can strategically cooperate with both countries in promoting shared priorities.

How did Cyprus approach its Presidency of the Council of the EU, and what were its most significant achievements and challenges? In an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, what role can the rotating Presidency still play in shaping the EU agenda and influencing European integration? How can Ireland ensure continuity with the work of the Cypriot Presidency while advancing its own strategic priorities? What opportunities and challenges is Ireland likely to face as it assumes the Presidency amid growing security, economic, and geopolitical uncertainties? How can the Czech Republic strategically cooperate with both Cyprus and Ireland to advance shared priorities and contribute to the EU’s long-term objectives?

Confirmed speakers:

H.E. Aliki Pascali, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Czech Republic

H.E. Alan Gibbons, Ambassador of Ireland to the Czech Republic

Additional speakers will be announced later.

The working breakfast will be moderated by Irena Krcháková, analyst at the Institute for Politics and Society.

The event will take place on 1 July from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The working language of the event is English only.

This event is by invitation only. Participation in the working breakfast is possible only upon successful registration, which must be confirmed in advance by the organizer.