“Together for Europe’s recovery”: Germany takes over Council of the European Union presidency on 1 July 2020
While the coronav iruspandemic continues, Germany took over the six-month presidency of the Council of the EU on 1 July. We asked German MEPs for their expectations. represents a significant challenge for the EU and immediate management of the pandemic and recovery are at the heart of the German programme for the presidency.
The aim is to reach a swift agreement on the recovery fund and the EU’s budget 2021-2027. Germany intends to make progress on climate protection, through the European Green Deal, and economic and social digitalisation. With a focus on Africa and relations with China, it also wants Europe to take more global responsibility and strengthen its role in the world.Another priority will be future EU-UK-relations.
German priorities for the presidency:
- Overcoming COVID-19 pandemic, economic and social recovery
- A stronger and more innovative Europe
- A fair Europe
- A sustainable Europe
- Europe of security and common values
- A strong Europe in the world
Message from Angela Merkel, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany
Dear Europeans,
Welcome to the website of Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the EU 2020.
‘Together for Europe’s recovery’ – that is our motto for the coming six months. However, the idea of a common and strong Europe presents us with an ongoing challenge. In particular, searching for the right responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences will demand our attention for a long time to come. We know that we can only master this extraordinary crisis in the best possible way if we work together.
In order to boost the economic and social recuperation of all EU member states, we will work during Germany’s Council Presidency on a joint recovery plan and financial framework for the years ahead. Together, we want to emerge strengthened from this crisis. That means focusing firmly on the future. Climate change mitigation, digital sovereignty and Europe’s responsibility in the world are therefore key focuses of our Presidency.
‘Together for Europe’s recovery’ – this motto is directed at us all, the citizens of Europe, and by no means solely at governments and parliaments. For Europe can only be strong if people have good prospects for the future, if they can see how important Europe is for them personally and if they are committed to the European idea.
I am therefore glad that you are interested in Europe. I cordially invite you to find out more about the programme, events and many other aspects of Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the EU on this website and on the social media channels of the German Government. Help to make Europe strong! For Europe can only succeed if we work together.
For full programme of German Presidency please visit https://www.eu2020.de/blob/2360248/33da95cb0900b1e4d26a44f35c9c97c0/pdf-programm-en-data.pdf
