President Michel's doorstep on vaccines.
Main results
On 7 and 8 May 2021, EU leaders met in Porto for their informal summit.
On 7 May, following the high-level conference held by the Portuguese presidency, EU leaders discussed COVID-19 and international relations. On 8 May, social affairs were on the agenda. Leaders adopted the Porto declaration on social issues.
- The Porto declaration
- Remarks by President Charles Michel after the informal meeting of the members of the European Council and the EU-India leaders' meeting in Porto, 8 May 2021
COVID-19 and external relations
On 7 May, leaders met for their working dinner. They addressed the COVID-19 situation, focusing on the following aspects:
- production and distribution of vaccines
- digital green certificate
- international solidarity
Leaders prepared for the EU-India leaders' meeting the following day. They also touched upon other issues of international concern.
Infographic - Advancing a stronger Social Europe
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Social affairs
The EU leaders' talks on 8 May concentrated on how to ensure an inclusive recovery, with education and skills at the heart of the EU's political action.
Leaders adopted the Porto declaration, setting out their vision for Europe's digital, green and fair transition.
The social dimension, social dialogue and the active involvement of social partners have always been at the core of a highly competitive social market economy. Our commitment to unity and solidarity also means ensuring equal opportunities for all and that no one is left behind.
The Porto declaration
EU leaders discussed the implementation of the European pillar of social rights at EU and national level, as established by the EU strategic agenda 2019-2024. The action plan presented by the Commission in March 2021 provides guidance on the implementation of the European pillar of social rights, including in the areas of employment, skills and social protection. The action plan also sets three main targets to be achieved throughout the European Union by 2030:
- an employment rate of at least 78% in the EU
- at least 60% of adults attending training courses every year
- a reduction of at least 15 million in the number of people at risk of social exclusion or poverty
