Belgium will take over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union on January 1, 2024, and will hold the position for a total of six months until June 2024.
According to a report by SchengenVisainfo.com, this presidential inauguration is Belgium’s 13th mandate, and during his first six months in office, he will work to strengthen cooperation between EU member states, protect European peoples, and promote common values. I will be working on the preparations.
Additionally, the Belgian presidency will focus on six key areas, with particular emphasis on maintaining support for Ukraine.
Once the current system cycle ends, the President will support a seamless transition to the next system. Support the adoption of the Strategic Agenda for 2024-2029 and prepare the debate on the future of the European Union.
The Belgian president is committed to upholding the bloc’s core values such as the rule of law, democracy and unity.
In the face of rapid technological advances as well as evolving geopolitical realities, Belgium emphasizes the EU’s long-term competitiveness. The Presidency aims to build a sustainable, innovative and resilient digital ecosystem that benefits people and businesses.
Belgium said it remains committed to the EU’s ambitious Green Deal, prioritizing energy and climate change.
The Presidency recognizes the urgent need for a comprehensive energy transition to provide affordable energy, contribute to climate neutrality, and ensure a secure supply.
Regarding social rights, the Belgian Presidency aims to build an inclusive, gender-equal and just European society.
The presidential office said it would focus on strengthening social dialogue, fair labor mobility, sustainable social protection and mental health at work.
In addition to these efforts, the Office of the President wants to ensure that everyone has access to affordable and decent housing. It also aims to assess the EU’s crisis preparedness and strengthen medical and nursing care human resources.
Additionally, the Presidency stated that a key objective is to address the legislative file related to the new EU treaty on migration and asylum. It aims to strengthen trust between EU member states, provide legal clarity for people arriving in the region and ensure humane and effective migration management.
The presidency’s efforts will also focus on strengthening the external dimensions of migration and asylum, working with African countries, and combating organized crime.
Belgium is also advocating a more proactive approach to strengthening the EU’s resilience and autonomy on the world stage. Dialogue, openness and cooperation are emphasized as essential elements of the EU’s interests.
Once Belgium’s mandate ends, the rotating presidency will be taken over by Hungary. Hungary will hold the Council Presidency from July to December 2024.