Geert Cockx began his speech by clarifying the role of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which acts as an impartial intermediary to drive the Council’s work, seek consensus, and institutionally represent all Member States. He also emphasized the need for each Presidency to remain flexible in adapting to unforeseen events and crises during its term.

Regarding Belgium’s specific Presidency, Ambassador Cockx highlighted the close coordination between Belgium and Spain, noting the achievements made during the Spanish Presidency and the continuity of progress on several files under the Belgian Presidency. He mentioned the closure of numerous files and significant advances in areas such as electricity market reform, the Migration and Asylum Pact, digital platform regulation, and the Artificial Intelligence Act.

Cockx continued by pointing out that the Belgian Presidency’s motto, Protect, Strengthen, Prepare, reflects the multiple crises Europe currently faces, including wars and economic, social, and climate challenges. He stressed that today’s world is marked by instability, strategic competition, and security threats, making it urgent to strengthen European security and defense through greater cooperation, increased investment, capability development, and the creation of an integrated market.

The Ambassador then outlined the six key priority areas identified in the Belgian Presidency’s work program: defending the rule of law and democracy, strengthening industrial competitiveness, ensuring a fair green transition, advancing the social and health agenda, protecting citizens and borders, and promoting a globally engaged Europe.

Regarding short-term challenges, the Ambassador mentioned the need to finalize and implement the European Green Deal, accelerate the energy transition, and address regional crises such as the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East. He also stressed the importance of maintaining internal cohesion within the European Union and strengthening its international role.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Cockx announced the adoption of a Strategic Agenda before the summer for the 2024-2029 period, which will define the EU’s priorities and working methods for the coming years. He also reaffirmed Belgium’s commitment to supporting the EU enlargement process, emphasizing the importance of a stronger and more united Europe in a changing world.

In the final part of the session, a debate took place in which participants raised questions on topics such as the EU’s perception of the Global South, relations between the EU and Latin America, and the influence of the European Parliament elections on the development of the Belgian Presidency.

Discussions also covered the EU enlargement process and Ukraine’s accession, the oversight of funds allocated to Ukraine, the internal market, and economic competition. Additionally, participants addressed issues related to security and defense within the EU, the fight against organized crime and terrorism, the rule of law within the Union, and finally, the EU’s social agenda.

Elena Ferro