EU helm shifts: Belgium prioritises Ukraine, future, and unity
Belgium officially took over the rotating presidency of the European Union at midnight today, marking the 13th time the nation has held the mantle, as reported by digi24.ro.
The six-month tenure comes at a pivotal moment for the bloc, grappling with the fallout of the Ukraine war, lingering pandemic effects, and an uncertain future.
The Belgian presidency has outlined six primary focuses:
- Unwavering Support for Ukraine: "Providing very firm political, economic, military, humanitarian, and legal support for Ukraine" will be a "key objective," De Croo affirmed.
- Shaping the EU's Future: The presidency aims to finalise the 2024-2029 Strategic Agenda, setting the bloc's long-term course.
- Enlargement and Unity: Building on the 20th anniversary of the EU's biggest expansion in 2004, Belgium plans to advance accession talks with aspiring member states.
- Resilient Schengen Area: Reforming the migration and asylum system and bolstering the Schengen zone's security are key priorities.
- Protecting Citizens: Addressing the energy crisis, tackling disinformation, and mitigating extreme weather events are core concerns.
- Continuity and Collaboration: Working alongside the previous Spanish presidency and the upcoming Hungarian presidency, Belgium emphasises "ensuring the continuity of the EU agenda."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
