Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The program for the Belgian Presidency of the European Community sets out the main priorities and directions of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Starting from January 1 to June 30, 2024.
Belgium holds the rotating presidency for the 13th time, at a time when the European Union is at a crossroads, dealing with the consequences of Russia's unlawful aggression against Ukraine, the pandemic, the energy crisis, disinformation, extreme weather events, and renewed conflict. Conflict in the Middle East.
The Belgian Presidency will work to provide better protection for European citizens, strengthen our cooperation, and prepare our common future. It will focus on six thematic areas, and will pay particular attention to maintaining our unwavering support for Ukraine. According to the website of the new Belgian EU Presidency.
With the end of the current institutional session, the Presidency will support a smooth transition to the next session. It will support the adoption of the Strategic Agenda 2024-2029 and the preparation of discussions on the future of the European Union.
“Protect, strengthen and prepare.” This is the slogan with which Belgium will assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union, and it briefly and powerfully summarizes the six main topics of this thirteenth term, which Belgium will assume from the beginning of the system of rotating presidency of member states. In his speech via video on the website of the rotating Belgian presidency of the Union, Alexandre Decroux, Prime Minister of Belgium, explained The meaning of the slogan and the priorities of the work program he said
Protection: This term resonates strongly with the protection of citizens and borders, underscoring the presidency's commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of Europeans. It also includes defending democratic values, the rule of law and unity, including support for Ukraine, which reflects the first theme. It also suggests promoting the social and health agenda.
Strengthening: This word reflects the strengthening of the European Union's competitiveness on the global stage. It stresses the importance of strengthening European unity and solidarity to confront internal and external challenges. This includes a just and equitable transition, ensuring that sustainable development and environmental policies are addressed with a forward-looking vision.
Preparation: Finally, the term “preparation” refers to preparing for the upcoming enlargements of the European Union and anticipating future challenges. This term highlights the importance of anticipation and strategic planning in all areas of the EU's work. It also points to the need for internal reform of the Union to maintain its ability to function in the future.
In short, the Belgian presidency's vision aims to be inclusive, focusing on protecting people and the EU's achievements, strengthening its economy, structures and capacities, and proactively preparing for future challenges. The presidency's slogan and the six main themes it includes symbolize the commitment to a safer, stronger and more resilient Europe, able to navigate the complex and rapidly changing landscape of global politics.