According to an EESC announcement, the conference was held under the auspices of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union. It focused on:

• Climate Change Adaptation: Addressing how islands are often the "first and fastest" hit by climate shifts.
• Food Security: Dealing with global uncertainties and risks to food supply chains.
• Biodiversity & Water: Prioritizing sustainable water management and protecting natural ecosystems.

The event highlighted that the EU requires a long-term vision that accounts for geographical peculiarities. Key takeaways included:

• Sustainable water management and food security must become top priorities.
• Food security and biodiversity must be developed in tandem.
• These elements should be integrated into the upcoming EU strategy for islands and coastal communities.

Annita Demetriou, House President States, "Resilience depends not only on policy design but also on effective implementation and the cooperation of all stakeholders. For real impact, we need synergies between different sectors and institutions."

Ms. Demetriou also highlighted the legislative efforts of the Republic of Cyprus and urged the EU to ensure island realities are not overlooked in broader continental planning.

Cillian Lohan (President of the EESC Civil Society Organizations' Group): He stated that the goal was not just to identify challenges—where islands like Cyprus are on the front lines—but to share solutions and strengthen cooperation between local and European bodies.

Andreas Gregoriou (Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture): He emphasized that for Cyprus, enhanced EU policies must reflect the specific realities of island regions and areas suffering from water scarcity, while promoting sustainable resource management.

Source: CNA (ΚΥΠΕ)