Belgium concluded its six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union. In six months, the Council, under Belgium’s leadership, concluded 69 political agreements with the European Parliament. 89 legislative dossiers were formally approved by the Council.

Hungary will now assume the presidency from 1 July until 31 December 2024, focusing on seven thematic areas: enhancing the EU's competitiveness, reinforcing the EU's defence policy, making the enlargement policy consistent and merit-based, stemming illegal migration, shaping the future of cohesion policy, promoting a farmer-oriented EU agricultural policy, and addressing demographic challenges.

In terms of migration, Hungary underlined in its programme that the migratory pressure that Europe has been facing for several years is a challenge to the Union as a whole but also places a huge burden on individual Member States, especially those at the external borders of the Union. To tackle this, Hungary stressed that closer cooperation with countries bordering the EU is indispensable, as well as with the key countries of origin and transit. In this respect, the Hungarian Presidency aims to pay particular attention to the external dimension of migration, including efficient cooperation with relevant third countries, more effective returns, and innovative solutions for rules on asylum. Hungary also intends to highlight the importance of external border protection and the need for EU funds for this purpose.

For further details please visit the website of the Hungarian Presidency.