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Minister Terho to attend General Affairs Council

Government Communications Department
Publication date 18.2.2019 14.29 | Published in English on 18.2.2019 at 16.43
Press release 96/2019

Minister for European Affairs, Culture and Sport Sampo Terho will represent Finland at the meeting of the EU General Affairs Council in Brussels on Tuesday 19 February. The main topics for the Council are the Multiannual Financial Framework of the EU (2021–2027), preparation of the European Council meeting in March, and promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (2030 Agenda).

In the public hearing the Romanian Presidency will give a situation report on the preparation of the Multiannual Financial Framework, i.e. the long-term budget, of the EU. Romania has continued the preparation of the draft Negotiation Box, which in practice is the draft of the agreement on the Multiannual Financial Framework. The Heads of State or Government will discuss the proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework at their summit in June. An agreement on the matter is expected in the autumn.

The topics for the European Council in March are employment, growth and competitiveness, climate change, and external relations. Finland considers it important to have a thorough discussion at the European Council on the development of the Single Market in view of the preparation of the EU’s Strategic Programme. The Finnish Government has given a report on how Finland aims to influence the climate policy of the EU E 120/2018 vp (in Finnish).

The Council will also discuss the best ways for the EU to promote the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Council Conclusions on the matter are to be adopted in April. Finland considers it important for the EU to continue the ambitious and comprehensive work on promoting sustainable development and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

The Council will also hear situation reports on the rule of law in Poland and Hungary. The key issue is to continue the discussion on the rule of law in Poland and that enough progress will be made in the matter. Finland considers that the Council should launch a similar process for Hungary as well. Where necessary, hearing the experts of the Council of the EU should also be considered. It is most important that all Member States are fully committed to upholding the rule of law

Read more about the meeting

Inquiries: Heli Siivola, Senior Specialist for EU Affairs, tel. +358 295 160 476, Prime Minister’s Office