President of the European Council António Costa recently conducted a diplomatic mission visiting Paris, Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon, in an effort to enhance the European Union’s ability to address regional and global challenges through strengthened partnerships between the EU and both its member states and neighboring regions. On January 5, 2026, President Costa announced his plan to conduct this diplomatic tour; however, the announcement also reinforced the EU’s intent to expand its partnership with member states and neighboring regions during a period of continued conflict among various nations and in light of continuing geopolitical tensions.
President Costa’s foreign diplomatic trip will begin with a visit to Paris
In Paris, he plans to attend a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. It is expected that Costa and Macron will have discussions about the top priorities of the EU for 2026, which include economic resilience, energy security, and defense cooperation. Because France is often considered one of the most influential countries in the EU, it is widely regarded as a key country that the EU can collaborate with on developing unified strategies for addressing the similar challenges facing the EU, including climate policy and the EU’s international diplomatic position.
Historically, Cyprus has been a point of intersection between Europe and the Middle East; because of its rising influence in both energy exploration and migrant management, Cyprus has become an increasingly valuable partner for the EU in shaping its policies.
As part of its overall goal of expanding its relationships with Middle Eastern partners, President Costa’s tour will continue with visits to Jordan and Lebanon
Regarding Jordan, discussions will take place with regard to humanitarian cooperation, regional security, and economic development. Over the past few years, Jordan has served as a host country for refugees, and it continues to play a vital role in maintaining stability in the region. In addition, President Costa is expected to emphasize the EU’s commitment to supporting Jordan in managing the flow of migrants entering the country and implementing initiatives to promote peace.
Finally, during his visit to Lebanon, President Costa will meet with various Lebanese leaders to discuss Lebanon’s current economic and political difficulties. Costa seeks to reinforce the EU’s reputation as a trusted and dependable partner for Lebanon in its recovery and reform process.
Overall, President Costa’s diplomatic tour reflects his broader agenda as President of the European Council
The agenda includes advancing EU interests in security, energy, migration, and global diplomacy. By working with both member states and neighboring countries, President Costa aims to create opportunities for the EU to establish itself as a proactive entity in resolving the interconnected challenges facing the world today.
The Council of the European Union stated that President Costa’s meetings would focus on “strengthening cooperation, promoting stability, and advancing the EU’s strategic interests.” Additionally, the tour was designed to lay the groundwork for upcoming EU summits, where issues such as enlargement, climate action, and defense integration will be discussed.
The timing of President Costa’s tour is significant for the EU
As the EU is experiencing economic uncertainty, transitioning to alternative forms of energy, and facing growing levels of instability on the world stage. President Costa’s decision to visit Paris, Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon, therefore, emphasizes the EU’s recognition that the EU needs to maintain internal cohesion and engage externally in a manner that contributes to regional stability.
The symbolism of President Costa’s trip is evident: the EU is not only enhancing ties within the EU, but also extending its reach to neighboring regions that have a direct impact on European stability. Overall, President Costa’s diplomatic outreach illustrates the EU’s desire to serve as a global mediator and partner in times of crisis.
President Costa’s diplomatic tour can be characterized as a deliberate attempt to enhance EU priorities throughout Europe and the Middle East. Through meetings with leaders in Paris, Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon, President Costa aims to enhance cooperation, stabilize the regions in which the EU operates, and ultimately increase the EU’s reputation as a global actor.
