Koska invited EU leaders to a summit in Brussels on 19–20 March
The President of the European Council, António Costa, has sent official invitations to the leaders of the 27 European Union member states to attend the European Council meeting to be held on 19–20 March in Brussels.
At the beginning of the discussion on the situation in Ukraine, leaders will hear a speech by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"At the beginning of our discussion on Ukraine, we will listen to President Zelenskyy. We will confirm our unwavering support for Ukraine, which continues to defend itself against Russian aggression and seeks a just and lasting peace," António Costa said.
He stressed the need to increase pressure on Russia until it begins meaningful peace talks.
The President of the European Council also drew attention to the military escalation in the Middle East, which, according to him, is causing global instability and is already having negative consequences for Europe.
During the summit, EU leaders are expected to discuss the situation in Iran and the Middle East, as well as the European Union's response to the geopolitical and economic consequences, particularly in the areas of energy security and energy prices.
"Together, we must identify the tools we need to mobilise to ensure a timely, coordinated and effective response that protects our citizens and our companies, while working towards de-escalation and stability in the region," Costa said.
He also called on leaders to focus on the strategic agenda for competitiveness and stressed the importance of preparing the European Union's multiannual budget for 2028-2034.
"We need to have an honest discussion about how we can align our ambitions with the appropriate level of funding," he said.
During the summit, EU leaders will also discuss the situation in Lebanon, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has been invited to a working lunch. Participants will discuss the deterioration of the international situation and the European Union's actions to protect multilateralism.
Koszta also stressed the need to review efforts to strengthen Europe's defence readiness.
"It will be extremely important to review current efforts to enhance our defence readiness. The current geopolitical context once again demonstrates their relevance. We need to continue to insist on rapid progress in strengthening European defence, particularly in its industrial dimension, as a fundamental component of Europe's strategic autonomy," he wrote.
Separately, EU leaders will take stock of progress on migration, which remains one of the EU's political priorities, particularly against the backdrop of the deteriorating situation in the Middle East.
Koszta also noted that he aims to hold the meeting in one day, if the course of the discussions allows it.
The summit will begin with the traditional exchange of views with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
In addition, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde and Eurogroup President Kyriakos Pierrakakis will present their economic analysis within the framework of the Euro Summit in an inclusive format.
