Greece

What is the role of the EU presidency?

The member state that assumes the EU Councl?s presidency of the Council coordinates cooperation among EU member states at the European Council, represents the Council in the EU?s other institutional bodies, particularly the European Parliament and the European Commission. It also acts on behalf of the EU at international organizations and in relation to third countries. The presidency is held in turn on a six-monthly basis.

When did Greece assume the EU presidency?

Greece took over the EU presidency from Denmark on 1 January 2003 amid pressing concerns over the future course of the 15-member bloc. Greece will turn over the presidency to Italy on 1 July 2003.

What is at the top of the Greek presidency?s agenda?

Among other issues, Greece will prioritize the completion of the enlargement process, the drafting of specific initiatives and common long-term objectives and practices to address migration phenomenon. The first extensive discussion on the EU?s future which be held during the Thessaloniki European Council in June.

In the field of foreign policy, the Greece will focus its efforts on neighboring regions but without decreasing The EU?s commitments in other areas of the world.

Where will EU Council sessions take place during the Greek Presidency?

Several of the Council?s sessions will be held in various towns and cities around Greece, while others will be held in Brussels and Luxembourg.

Where will the European Council meet during the Greek presidency?

The Spring European Council will be held in Brussels on March 21 and 22, while the European Council summit will take place in Thessaloniki on June 20 and 21.

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