During a recent Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) session in Luxembourg, Cyprus’ Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou emphasized the country’s ongoing progress in labour market development, aligning with broader EU goals.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Labour, Minister Panayiotou addressed the Council on key EU social priorities, expressing Cyprus’ support for launching inter-institutional negotiations on the proposed Directive for Traineeships. He also shared perspectives on shaping the new European action plan for social rights and stressed the importance of prioritizing the EU’s strategy for poverty reduction.
In his post-meeting statement, Panayiotou confirmed that the Council approved the negotiating text for the Traineeships Directive and held productive discussions on Europe’s social agenda. “I highlighted the steady progress of the Cypriot labour market, which reflects the EU’s employment priorities—reduced unemployment, improved job prospects, higher wages, and enhanced skills development,” he said.
On the sidelines of the Council meeting, Panayiotou met with several European counterparts and senior EU officials as part of preparatory efforts ahead of Cyprus’ upcoming presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2026. His meetings included discussions with France’s Labour and Employment Minister Astrid Panosyan-Bouvet, Dutch Deputy Prime Minister Eddy van Hijum, Austria’s Labour Minister Korinna Schumann, and Germany’s State Secretary Michael Schäfer.
He also held talks with key EU officials, including Mario Nava, Director General of DG Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion at the European Commission, and David Brozina, Director General of the Council Secretariat’s DG LIFE, which oversees areas such as social affairs and public health.
These engagements underscore Cyprus’ active role in shaping European labour policy and preparing for its forthcoming leadership role within the EU framework.
Source: Stockwatch.com.cy