21 May 2019

Main results - General Affairs Council

The Council started preparations for the European Council meeting to be held on 20-21 June.

At their meeting in June, EU leaders are expected to take decisions on appointments for the next institutional cycle and adopt the EU’s strategic agenda for 2019 to 2024. They will also focus their discussions on the next multiannual financial framework, climate change and country-specific recommendations under the European Semester process.

Multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027

The Council discussed the external action aspects of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) for 2021-2027. Ministers focused on the proposals from the European Commission on the integration of the European Development Fund into the EU budget and the ring-fencing of funds for the European Neighbourhood in the next MFF.

The debate will feed into preparations by the presidency for a revised draft negotiating box ahead of the June European Council.

Composition of the EU advisory bodies

The Council adopted, without discussion, two decisions concerning the composition of the Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee. The decisions adapt the composition of these EU advisory bodies from the start of their new mandates in 2020 taking into account the UK's withdrawal.

Composition of the Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee: Council adopts adaptations 

EU macro-regional strategies

The Council adopted conclusions on the implementation of EU macro-regional strategies, following the report submitted by the European Commission in January. The conclusions recognise the role of macro-regions in fostering socio-economic and territorial cohesion.

Council conclusions on the implementation of EU macro-regional strategies

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