European Council

On 10 April 2019, the European Council (Art. 50) adopted conclusions on Brexit.

Donald Tusk sent the invitation letter for the special meeting of the European Council (Art. 50). EU27 leaders will meet to discuss the UK request of a further extension of the Article 50 period.

At the press conference concluding the 21st EU-China summit held in Brussels, President Tusk highlighted the main subjects of the discussions during the meeting, setting the direction for a partnership with China based on reciprocity.

During the 21st EU-China summit held in Brussels, leaders reaffirmed the strength of the EU-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and their resolve to work together for peace, prosperity, sustainable development, commitment to multilateralism and respect for international law. They agreed a joint statement.

The 26th bilateral summit between the EU and Japan is expected to take place on 25 April in the Europa building in Brussels.

The Council adopted conclusions on sustainable development, responding to the Commission's reflection paper "Towards a Sustainable Europe by 2030".

The Council adopted a decision establishing a High-level Group of Wise Persons on the European financial architecture for development, chaired by Thomas Wieser.

The Council adopted a series of legislative acts.

More accessible products and services for EU citizens: Council adopts the Accessibility Act.

The Council adopted a regulation setting out that, following Brexit, UK citizens coming to the Schengen area for a short stay (90 days in any 180 days) will be granted visa free travel.

Council adopts new rules on definition, description, presentation and labelling of spirit drinks.

Rules on unfair trading practices in the agricultural and food supply chain adopted.

The EU now has an effective tool to address unfair commercial practices that may emerge in the air transport sector.

The Council formally adopted the directive et regulations reforming the ECRIS system on the exchange of criminal records.

The Council formally adopted the directive on combating fraud on non-cash means of payment.

The Council adopted a reform setting capital requirements applying to banks with non-performing loans (NPLs) on their balance sheets.

The Council adopted updated rules on the European Citizens' Initiative.

The Council approved the European Parliament's position on a Regulation amending the Statute of the Court of Justice of the European Union.

On 8 April 2019, the Council adopted conclusions on Afghanistan.