European Council

The Council approved the Commission’s positive assessment of the amended recovery and resilience plans submitted by Sweden, Slovenia, Denmark and Belgium.

The Council reached a political agreement on a new directive paving the way for the introduction of an electronic tax certificate for VAT exemptions.

The Council today adopted the FASTER directive, which sets out safer and faster procedures to obtain double taxation relief. This will encourage cross-border investment and help fight tax abuse.

Remarks by Paschal Donohoe following the Eurogroup meeting of 9 December 2024.

Eurogroup issued a statement on the draft budgetary plans for 2025.

Remarks by Paschal Donohoe following the Eurogroup meeting in inclusive format with the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves.

The Council renewed restrictive measures in view of the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo until 12 December 2025.

Council approves an agreement reached with the United Kingdom which secures the fishing rights of EU fishers in the Atlantic and the North Sea for 2025.

The EU issued a statement on Human Rights Day, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the universal respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights for everyone, everywhere.

The Council adopted an implementing decision authorising the second regular payment of grants and loans under the Ukraine Plan of the Ukraine Facility.

The EU issued a statement on the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, expressing its support for the Syrian people and urging all actors to avoid any further violence, to ensure the protection of civilians, and uphold international law.

Council greenlights conclusions on the future common agricultural policy, paving the way for a competitive, resilient, sustainable and farmer-friendly sector.

President of the European Council, António Costa, spoke at the event commemorating the Centenary of Mário Soares, in Lisbon, on 7 December 2024.

EU’s support to Ukraine as well how the EU can best consolidate its role on the international stage will take center stage at the discussions of this European Council meeting, as outlined by President Costa in his invitation letter to EU leaders.

Main agenda items, approximate timing, public sessions and press opportunities.

Main agenda items, approximate timing, public sessions and press opportunities.

Weekly schedule of President António Costa, 9–15 December 2024

At the inaugural Coalition for Capacity on Climate Action (C3A) Symposium hosted by the World Bank, the Eurogroup President, Paschal Donohoe, emphasized the critical role of Finance Ministries in the global ecological transition.

The Council has approved conclusions on the Commission’s White Paper titled ‘How to master EU’s digital infrastructure needs’.  

 The Council approved conclusions on the EU agency for cybersecurity (ENISA).