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Ministers began with an informal lunch, during which they discussed the role of cohesion policy in enhancing the competitiveness of the EU.
The Hungarian presidency prioritises shaping cohesion policy to create an economic environment that supports resilience and growth across member states. Cohesion policy remains a crucial tool for building competitiveness within the EU, enabling regions to close the innovation gap, support regional innovation ecosystems, and advance smart specialisation strategies that drive sustainable economic development.
János Bóka, Hungarian Minister for European Union Affairs
December European Council
The Council prepared for the European Council meeting on 19-20 December 2024 by discussing an annotated draft agenda.
At their meeting in December, EU leaders will address:
Ukraine
Middle East
EU’s role in the world
resilience, preparedness, crisis prevention and response
As part of the annual rule of law dialogue, ministers discussed the rule of law situation in Malta, the Netherlands, Austria and Poland.
The Council’s annual rule of law dialogue was initiated in 2014. It allows for an open exchange of comments and best practices on rule of law developments across the EU and in individual member states, while ensuring objectivity, non-discrimination and equal treatment of all member states.
As part of the Article 7(1) TEU procedure, ministers discussed the state of play regarding respect for the EU values in Hungary.
The Commission provided ministers with an update on the latest developments in Hungary and ministers had an opportunity to provide their comments. Hungary presented its remarks.
The Presidency concluded that the General Affairs Council remains seized of the matter.
The Article 7 procedure concerning Hungary was launched by the European Parliament in 2018. It was last on the Council’s agenda in June 2024, when a hearing of Hungary took place.
