From July 1, Hungary started its six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union, replacing Belgium.
The Hungarian presidency will last for the next six months and will focus on the following priorities:
- Increasing the competitiveness of the EU economy: Hungary plans to promote the development of innovations, support of small and medium-sized businesses, as well as the creation of a favorable investment climate.
- Strengthening defense policy: Hungary intends to contribute to the development of European defense cooperation, strengthening the security of the EU’s external borders and the fight against terrorism.
- Definition of the “cohesion policy” course: Hungary seeks to promote equalization of the level of development of different EU countries, in particular by supporting regions lagging behind in development.
- Promotion of “farmer-oriented” agricultural policies: Hungary plans to support farmers and develop rural areas.
- Responding to “demographic challenges”: Hungary intends to solve the problems of aging population and labor shortage.
- Ensuring a “consistent and merit-based enlargement policy”: Hungary plans to support EU candidate countries, but stresses the need for them to meet all membership criteria.
