General Affairs Council, 25/04/2017, 25 April 2017

Main results

Why cohesion policy matters

The Council welcomed the positive results of the cohesion policy programmes for 2007-2013 for companies and citizens across the EU. Ministers adopted conclusions which point out that these programmes helped create 1 million jobs by providing financial support to more than 120 000 start-ups and around 400 000 SMEs. They contributed to the construction of 4 900 km of new roads and the upgrade of 1 500 km of railway lines. They also connected 6 million people to new or improved drinking water networks and 7 million people to new or upgraded wastewater treatment.

"EU cohesion is clearly a success story. It helps create jobs, stimulate growth and makes the life of millions of European citizens easier. What EU cohesion policy lacks is visibility. That is why the Council agreed today on how we can demonstrate more clearly how cohesion policy has a direct positive impact on the lives of European citizens."

Ian Borg, Parliamentary secretary for EU funds of Malta and President of the Council

More EU support for member states affected by natural disasters

Ministers welcomed the Council's agreement of 29 March 2017 to increase EU support for regions hit by floods, earthquakes, droughts and other natural disasters. Under the new scheme the EU share in the costs of reconstruction will rise to up to 90%. This would almost double the EU's financial contribution for some regions. Negotiations between the Council and the European Parliament are expected to start early in May. "The planned increase of EU support for regions hit by natural disasters is a concrete expression of our solidarity with those in need. It will mean more help for regions in the task of enabling people to return to normal living conditions", said Ian Borg.

• More solidarity with regions hit by natural disasters (press release from 29 March 2017)

End of roaming charges and 700 MHz frequency band for mobile broadband

The Council also adopted two major legal acts in the area of telecommunications.

The Council's go-ahead for wholesale roaming reform is the final step to end mobile roaming charges in the EU on 15 June 2017.

"Today's final vote in the Council clears the path for free roaming. When Europeans go on holiday this summer, they can enjoy the freedom of being able to stay in touch and use the internet as if they were at home."

Emmanuel Mallia, the Maltese Minister for Competitiveness and Digital, Maritime and Services Economy

The Council also adopted a decision on opening the 700 MHz frequency band for wireless broadband services in all EU countries. The coordinated use of this high-quality spectrum range will boost mobile connectivity and drive the roll-out of 5G technology.

Control of firearms

The Council adopted a directive tightening the rules on the acquisition and possession of weapons. The new directive enhances the traceability of firearms, bans the civilian use of the most dangerous semi-automatic firearms and improves information sharing between EU countries.