The Council is the main decision-making body of the European Union
The ministers of the Member States meet within the Council of the European Union. Depending on the issue on the agenda, each country will be represented by the minister responsible for that subject (foreign affairs, finance, social affairs, transport, agriculture, etc.).
The presidency of the Council is held for six months by each Member State on a rotational basis.
Under the Lisbon Treaty a new permanent post, the President of the European Council, will be created. He or she will be appointed by the European Council for a two and a half years period. This will provide greater continuity and stability to the work of the European Council.
The Lisbon Treaty also creates a High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. He or she will also become Vice-President of the Commission, and will chair the External Relations Council. This will strengthen coherence in external action and raise the EU’s profile in the world, “putting a face” on the Union.