Overview
Capital: Nicosia
Official EU language(s): Greek
EU member country: since 1 May 2004
Currency: euro. Cyprus has been a member of the euro area since 1 January 2008.
Schengen: Cyprus is currently in the process of joining the Schengen area.
Figures: Geographical size – population – gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in PPS
Political system
Cyprus operates as a presidential republic where the president holds the dual roles of head of state and head of government. Despite its entry into the EU as a de facto divided island, the entirety of Cyprus is considered EU territory. Turkish Cypriots holding or eligible for EU travel documents are regarded as EU citizens. In areas where the Cypriot government (Government of the Republic) does not exert effective control, EU law is suspended. Cyprus has two official languages, Greek and Turkish, with only Greek recognized as an official EU language.
Trade and economy
In 2020, Cyprus’s economy was predominantly driven by key sectors including wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation, and food services (21.4%), public administration, defense, education, human health, and social work activities (20.8%), and professional, scientific and technical activities; administrative and support service activities (11.3%).
Internally, 34% of Cyprus’ exports are traded within the EU, with Greece (9%) and the Netherlands (5%) being the primary destinations, while outside the EU, 8% of exports are directed to Liberia and 9% to the United Kingdom.
Regarding imports, 59% originate from EU Member States, with Greece (22%) and Italy (8%) being the main sources, while outside the EU, 8% come from the United Kingdom and 6% from China.
Cyprus in the EU European Parliament
Cyprus is represented by 6 members in the European Parliament.
European Parliament office in Cyprus
Council of the EU
Cypriot government representatives participate in the Council of the EU to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies, depending on the addressed policy area.
Presidency of the Council of the EU
Cyprus held the Presidency of the Council of the EU from July to December 2012.
European Commission
Stella Kyriakides serves as the Commissioner nominated by Cyprus to the European Commission, responsible for Health and Food Safety. The Commission maintains representation in Cyprus.
European Economic & Social Committee
Cyprus has 5 representatives on the European Economic and Social Committee, providing consultation on proposed laws affecting work and social situations.
European Committee of the Regions
Cyprus is represented by 5 delegates on the European Committee of the Regions, ensuring regional perspectives are considered in proposed laws.
Permanent representation to the EU
Cyprus communicates with EU institutions through its permanent representation based in Brussels, ensuring effective pursuit of the country’s interests and policies in the EU.
Budgets and funding
Cyprus contributes to the EU budget based on its means to support programs and projects across all EU countries.
