During its Presidency of the Council of the European Union (1 July-31 December 2012), Cyprus will work “Τowards a Better Europe”, more relevant to its citizens and to the world; meaning a more effective Europe, contributing to growth and job creation. A European Union working on the basis of the underlying principle of solidarity, committing itself to a better future, promoting social cohesion and providing hope to its citizens; a European Union, with an enhanced role in the international scene. All efforts will be directed to bequeath a better Europe to the younger generations. The priorities of the Cyprus Presidency are: 1. Europe, more efficient and sustainable 2. Europe, with a better performing and growth economy 3. Europe, more relevant to its citizens, with solidarity and social cohesion 4. Europe in the world, closer to its neighbours Τhe four priorities are further elaborated in the Six Month Programme of the Presidency. The policy areas of education, youth, culture, audiovisual and sport are important factors for economic growth and social cohesion in the EU, as well as for the well-being of citizens. The programme of the Presidency in the field of culture includes work on the public value of culture – under the Cypriot Presidency the Council is expected to adopt conclusion on cultural governance. The Presidency will also seek to make progress on the negotiations of the Creative Europe Programme, which promotes competitiveness of European cultural, audiovisual and creative sectors, by adapting to the digital and globalised era, while safeguarding European cultural and linguistic diversity. Cultural heritage and digitalisation will be high on the Cypriot agenda too. Furthermore, the Presidency will follow the progress of the discussions on the Europe for Citizens programme. The Cyprus Presidency will work towards demonstrating the links between the Europe 2020 Strategy and culture. The Presidency will aim to further promote the strategic targets of the European cultural agenda and enhance cultural research - while strengthening the networks between researchers in cultural policy issues - and evidence based policy in the context of a holistic approach to Cultural Governance. The Presidency will also progress all relevant discussions and work for the new Decision for the European Capital of Culture Programme. Find out more at www.cy2012.eu