European Council agrees on high-level appointments and EU’s objectives for the next few years

At its meeting in Brussels on 27–28 June, the European Council decided on appointments to three high-level roles in EU institutions. The Council proposed that Ursula von der Leyen from Germany continue as President of the Commission, selected Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas as the candidate for High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and elected former Prime Minister of Portugal António Costa President of the European Council.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, who represented Finland at the meeting, expressed his full support for the decisions.

“The high-level appointments are geographically and politically balanced. This decision will ensure the EU’s operational capacity and continuity. The next Commission must be able to start its work as soon as possible,” Prime Minister Orpo said.

The EU leaders also adopted the EU’s Strategic agenda for 2024–2029. The strategic agenda is a programme that outlines the Union's policy objectives and priorities for the next five years. It also provides a foundation for the work of the new Commission.

“The strategic agenda reflects our key policy priorities very well. Strengthening competitiveness, improving comprehensive security in Europe and promoting the bioeconomy and circular economy are included in the text. We can say that we achieved our goals,” said Prime Minister Orpo.

The European Council held a strategic debate on Ukraine and exchanged views with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The leaders also signed an agreement on joint security commitments between the EU and Ukraine.

Prime Minister Orpo emphasised that strong political, economic and military support for Ukraine must continue. “I am very pleased that we were able to reach a common understanding at the EU level on the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine,” Orpo said.

The EU leaders also had a discussion on security and defence. Prime Minister Orpo pointed out the need to further strengthen the European defence industry and increase its funding, calling attention to the central role of the European Investment Bank (EIB).

“The EIB has already eased its rules, but further steps are needed to secure funding. The next financial framework should also look at ways to support the defence sector,” said Prime Minister Orpo.

The meeting also addressed the situation in the Middle East, migration, hybrid threats and internal reforms. The leaders invited the Commission to prepare a strategy for the Black Sea region. The Council expressed its concern regarding the recent events in Georgia and warned the country’s authorities of the risk of compromising the EU accession process.

Inquiries: Tuomas Tikkanen, Special Adviser (EU Affairs), tel. +358 40 523 5768, Jari Luoto, Director General, EU Affairs Department, tel. +358 50 468 5949 and Marko Ruonala, Project Manager (Communications), tel. +358 50 522 8233, Prime Minister’s Office