The next meeting of the European Council, which will last two days – March 19 and 20 – opens today in the Belgian capital. The leaders of the 27 EU countries gathered in the Council building to discuss the most pressing geopolitical and economic challenges facing the union.
The meeting is chaired by European Council President António Costa. Traditionally, the summit began with a speech by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
European leaders’ primary focus is the sharp escalation of the military conflict in the Middle East, particularly the situation surrounding Iran and its implications for the EU. Key topics include:
the implications of the Middle East crisis for energy security and energy prices in Europe;
further support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war;
the competitiveness of the European economy and strengthening the single market;
preparations for the next EU multiannual financial framework;
development of European defense and security;
migration policy.
A meeting of the Euro Summit in an expanded format is also scheduled on the first day of the summit, where eurozone leaders will discuss the economic situation in the EU, the international role of the euro, and the savings and investment union.
According to official sources, the agenda is largely shaped by recent external events, including military actions in the Middle East and their impact on Europe’s energy sector and economy. The two-day talks are expected to result in important political statements and instructions from the European Commission.