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Press material Thursday 2 June 2022

● Council of the EU   02/06/2022 17:17 | Press release | Fit for 55 package: Council adopts its position on three texts relating to the transport sector   Today, European transport ministers adopted a common position (‘general approach’) on each of the three legislative proposals of the fit for 55 package that relate to the transport sector (alternative fuels infrastructure (AFIR), FuelEU Maritime and ReFuelEU Aviation). This is an important step in the implementation of the fit for 55 legislative package, which should enable the EU to meet its climate objectives: reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. For the transport sector in particular, the objective is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% (the sector currently accounts for more than a quarter of EU emissions).

Press material Thursday 2 June 2022

● Council of the EU   02/06/2022 18:10 | Press release | Joint press statement - 14th Association Council meeting between the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the European Union   The fourteenth meeting of the Association Council of the European Union and Jordan took place in Jordan on 2 June 2022, the first such event to be held in Jordan, confirming the strong and lasting partnership between the two parties, including the decade-long co-presidency of the Union for the Mediterranean. The Association Council adopted new Partnership Priorities to guide the relationship until 2027, in line with the new EU Agenda for the Mediterranean and its Economic and Investment Plan. The EU and Jordan will, thus, further deepen their dialogue and their collaboration around three objectives: strengthening cooperation on regional stability and security; promoting sustainable economic stability, and strengthening good governance and respect for human rights. The EU informed that the Multi-Annual Indicative Program 2021-2027 is nearly finalised and expected to be adopted in Summer 2022. A first tranche of € 364 M will be made available to support Jordan’s reforms in three priority areas, in line with the Partnership Priorities: green transition and a resilient economy, human development, and good governance. It was highlighted that the EU will support the areas of renewable energy, energy efficiency and management of water resources in Jordan. In this vein, the EU will support key flagship projects of the Economic and Investment Plan, such as the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance (AAWDC), which will benefit from a first EU contribution of € 50 M. The EU also confirmed its readiness to support the upgrade of the King Hussein/Allenby bridge. Moreover, the EU and Jordan have launched an investment platform to mobilize investment in Jordan, which will be crucial for the implementation of the Economic and Investment Plan. The EU and Jordan discussed the third Macro-Financial-Assistance (MFA). The EU welcomed the compliance with the conditions for the first and second disbursements under its third (MFA) and are working towards the third and final tranche. The EU welcomed Jordan’s continued ambitious political modernization and economic reform agenda and stressed it will continue to support this agenda, aiming at further strengthening political participation and accountability as well as creating the conditions for increased investment and job creation. The EU and Jordan reaffirmed their commitment to democratic principles and fundamental human rights as set out in the universal declaration on human rights and in the EU-Jordan Association Agreement.. Jordan briefed the EU on its modernization and reform agenda to further increase political participation and further protect fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. The EU and Jordan exchanged views on human rights and agreed to continue their regular dialogue. Both sides also confirmed their commitment to further deepen dialogue on issues of mutual interest including security, counter-terrorism and countering violent extremism, border management, job creation, innovation, green transition, employability and mobility. On regional and global matters, the EU recognised the stabilising factor Jordan represents in this region. The EU and Jordan will continue to cooperate and coordinate efforts to address regional crises and achieve stability and security. They reiterated that the only path to a just, lasting and comprehensive resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the two-state solution that ends occupation and leads to the establishment, of an independent, , contiguous, sovereign and viable Palestinian State, on the lines of 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, living side by side with the State of Israel in peace, in accordance with international law and UN Security Council resolutions. They warned of the danger inherent in the absence of a political horizon to end the conflict and emphasized the necessity of relaunching serious and meaningful negotiations to achieve the two-state solution and restore confidence in the Middle East peace process. They condemned the construction and expansion of settlements, confiscation of land and forced evictions of Palestinians from their homes, as illegal measures under international law, that undermine the viability of the two-state solution and the prospects for peace. The EU and Jordan also reiterated the importance of upholding the historic status quo for the holy sites in Jerusalem, including with regards to the historic Hashemite Custodianship. The EU and Jordan also stressed the crucial role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) for security and stability in the region, in accordance with its UN mandate, and expressed their commitment to continue supporting the Agency. In this regard, the EU recalled the EU and UNRWA Joint Declaration of 17 November 2021. Recognizing Jordan’s extraordinary generosity in hosting Syrian refugees over a decade and the adverse impact of the Syria crisis on the country, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to provide assistance to Jordan and the Syrian refugees , as recently also shown by the significant pledges mobilised by the Brussels VI conference on the future of Syria and the region; Jordan thanked the EU for its key support to refugees and host countries. The two sides emphasized the need to uphold the principle of burden sharing and global responsibility in supporting refugees and providing them with needs and dignified lives, until the conditions allow for their safe and voluntary return. The EU commended Jordan’s extraordinary efforts in providing refugees with a dignified life and opportunities. The EU and Jordan stressed the necessity of ending the Syrian crisis through a political solution in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, preserving the unity and territorial integrity of Syria, ensuring the enduring defeat of terrorism, alleviating the humanitarian suffering of the Syrian people, and leading to conditions conducive to the voluntary, dignified, and safe return of refugees. They agreed that achieving this solution is key to regional stability. Recalling United Nations General Assembly resolutions ES-11/1 and ES-11/2, the EU and Jordan call on the Russian Federation to immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders in accordance with the UN Charter. They condemned all violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights in conflict areas, and called for strict respect for international humanitarian law The EU and Jordan expressed concern about the potential impact of the conflict on increased food insecurity globally, as well as on global supply chains and energy and commodity price hikes. The EU showed its solidarity with Jordan via its initiative for a regional “Food and Resilience Facility” worth EUR 225 million to address short and medium term needs in the Southern Neighbourhood, with an allocation of EUR 25 million for Jordan. The EU and Jordan emphasized the importance of supporting the stability of Iraq as key to regional stability. They recognized that terrorist groups and terrorist ideologies and the culture of hate remain significant challenges that demand systematic and coordinated strategies to counter them. They stressed their commitment to continue fighting terrorism in all its forms to ensure the enduring defeat of all terrorist groups, including through cooperation within the global coalition to fight ISIS. The meeting was co-chaired by Josep Borrell, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice-President of the Commission, and by Ayman Safadi, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan in the presence of Oliver Varhelyi, the Commissioner of European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, and the Jordanian Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Mr. Nasser Shraideh, the Minister of Justice, Mr. Ahmed Ziadat, the Minister of Industry and Trade and Supply, Mr. Yousef Alshamali, the State Minister for Legal Affairs, Mrs. Wafaa Bani Mustafa, as well as the EU Member State Foreign Ministers Mr. Ioannis Kasoulides from Cyprus, Mr Nikos Dendias from Greece, Mr. Simon Coveney from Ireland and Mr. Jean Asselborn from Luxembourg.

Meetings Friday 3 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   03/06/2022 14:10 | MEETING | Main results - Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Telecommunications), 3 June 2022   Telecommunications ministers discussed the state of play of legislative files linked to the EU’s digital transition (Artificial Intelligence Act, European Digital Identity Regulation, Data Act). They also held an orientation debate on the green and digital transition. Council of the EU Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Telecommunications), 3 June 2022 Infographic - Towards a digital EuropeSee full infographic Main results Artificial intelligence With regard to the proposal for an Artificial Intelligence Act, the Council took stock of the progress made and approved a progress report submitted by the presidency. The draft Regulation presented by the European Commission in April 2021 is a key element in the EU’s policy to foster the development and uptake, at European level, of trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI) that respects fundamental rights. The proposal lays down a uniform, horizontal legal framework for AI which aims to:ensure that AI systems placed on the EU market and used in the European Union, including by non-EU providers, respect European Union values and existing laws on fundamental rights ensure legal certainty to facilitate investment and innovation in AI enhance governance and effective enforcement of existing law on fundamental rights and safety requirements applicable to AI systems Ministers supported the main objectives of the proposal and took note of the progress report. Work in the Council will continue under the Czech presidency.Draft regulation laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence (Artificial Intelligence Act) A European approach to artificial intelligence (Commission information) A digital future for Europe (background information) Framework for a European Digital Identity The Council took stock of the progress made and approved a progress report submitted by the presidency on the proposal for a Regulation on a European Digital Identity framework. The proposed new framework will amend the 2014 regulation on electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market (eIDAS Regulation), which had laid the foundations for a system for safely accessing services and carrying out transactions online and across borders in the EU. The proposal aims to ensure universal access for people and businesses to secure and trustworthy electronic identification and authentication by means of a European digital identity wallet. This wallet should be recognised by the EU public sector, by private service providers requiring strong user authentication and by large online platforms. The proposal also creates a legal framework for the exchange of identification attributes and information linked to identity. It provides for user control and data protection and the targeted sharing of identity data limited to the needs of the specific service requested. Ministers supported the main objectives of the proposal and took note of the progress report. Work in the Council will continue under the Czech presidency.Regulation on a European Digital Identity framework European Digital Identity (Commission information) A digital future for Europe (background information) Data Act The Council took stock of progress on the proposal for a Regulation on harmonised rules on fair access to and use of data. The main objectives of that proposal are to ensure fairness in the allocation of value from data among actors in the data economy and to foster access to and use of data. It is a horizontal piece of legislation which should soon be supplemented by complementary legislation for specific sectors. This legislative proposal is therefore an important step in the development of the European data economy. Ministers supported the main objectives of the proposal and took note of the progress report. Work in the Council will continue under the Czech presidency.Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on harmonised rules on fair access to and use of data (Data Act) Your life online: how is the EU making it easier and safer for you? (feature story) A digital future for Europe (background information) Digital and green transition The Council also held a policy debate on the digital and green transition on the basis of a note submitted by the presidency. Ministers discussed how to measure and assess the environmental impact of digital technology, and arrangements for developing sustainable digital technology that serves the green transition of the economy. More specifically, ministers exchanged views on the possibility of putting in place, at European level, methodologies for measuring the digital environmental footprint, bearing in mind its potential to reduce the environmental footprint of other sectors. Ministers also discussed the concrete targets which Europe should set itself by 2030 and the levers which should be prioritised at European level to address the most important environmental cost factors associated with digitalisation, with particular regard to digital equipment, and to encourage practices and services conducive to this transition. Ministers stressed that, while smart use of clean digital technologies can act as a key enabler for climate action, environmental sustainability and the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the information and communication technology (ICT) sector must also ensure the environmentally sound design and deployment of digital technologies and products. They also noted that Europe can compete globally in the green technology market, in particular by promoting innovative technologies, energy-efficient electronics and the environmental sustainability of ICT solutions. Ministers stressed the need to create a methodology for measuring the digital environmental footprint, to establish targets for 2030 and an ambitious digital and green transition strategy at European level.A digital future for Europe (background information) Any other business Under ‘any other business’, the presidency briefed ministers on the state of play of current legislative proposals. As regards the Regulation on privacy and electronic communications (ePrivacy), the presidency informed ministers about the state of play in the Council and the ongoing negotiations with the European Parliament on this file, including the outcome of the trilogue of 31 March 2022. As regards the draft Decision on the Path to the Digital Decade, the presidency informed ministers about the mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament approved by the Permanent Representatives Committee on 11 May 2022. With regard to the Directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the EU (revised NIS Directive or ‘NIS 2’), the presidency informed ministers about the provisional agreement reached with the European Parliament on 12 May 2022. The presidency also informed ministers about the state of play on the European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles for the Digital Decade. In addition, the presidency and other delegations informed ministers about the International Telecommunication Union Plenipotentiary Conference to be held in Bucharest from 26 September to 14 October 2022. The Austrian, Czech and Slovak delegations also informed ministers about the outcome of the high-level workshop ‘Digital Humanism and Artificial Intelligence’, held in Brussels on 3 March 2022. Finally, the incoming Czech presidency presented its work programme for the second half of 2022. Meeting information Meeting n°3874-1 Luxembourg 3 June 2022 09:30 Preparatory documentsProvisional agenda List of A items, legislative deliberations List of A items, non-legislative activities Background brief Outcome documentsVideo footage List of participants

Press material Thursday 2 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   02/06/2022 16:10 | Press release | Deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems: Council adopts position   In order to accelerate the European Union’s transition to a digital economy, the Council, in its Transport configuration, today agreed its position (general approach) on the Commission proposal revising the Directive on the deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems. This proposal to amend the 2010 Directive was submitted in December 2021 and aims to take account of technological developments since 2010, such as connected and automated mobility, on-demand mobility applications, and multimodal transport. It also aims to enhance the availability and interoperability of digital data that feed these services. The proposal is also part of the overall digitalisation priority. It therefore represents an important step towards creating the common European mobility data space. The text of the Council’s general approach strikes the right balance between the ambition to make progress in the systematic and harmonised deployment of intelligent transport systems and the need to move forward in a gradual manner, taking full account of the benefits and costs, and the geographical circumstances and individual capacities of the Member States, whilst ensuring the coherence of the systems. In particular, the text has strengthened the position of Member States to decide on the conditions for implementation, in particular for determining the geographical scope and scheduling for the data and services to be provided. Accordingly, the Council text distinguishes between the political decision on essential data types and critical services, in respect of which Member States will be responsible for ensuring availability and deployment, and the phasing and roll-out on the network, which will accompany this political decision in an implementing act. As regards the selection of data types, the availability of which for providers of information services will be mandatory, the Council position incorporates the new key data types resulting from the revision of the specifications for real-time traffic information services in February 2022. Next steps The general approach adopted today will allow the Council presidency to start negotiations with the European Parliament (trilogues) once the latter has adopted its position. Commission proposal Old Directive of 2010 Press material Thursday 2 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   02/06/2022 15:56 | Press release | Ro-ro passenger ships: Council adopts its position on improved stability requirements   In order to improve maritime safety, the Council, in its Transport configuration, today adopted its position (general approach) on the proposal to introduce improved stability requirements for ro-ro passenger ships. This proposal, although highly technical in nature, is important for enhancing the safety of these vessels and therefore better protecting our citizens. Ro-ro passenger ships provide numerous maritime links within Member States, between Member States and with third countries. They are therefore of major importance to passenger and freight transport in Europe. The directive under review is also a direct consequence of one of the worst maritime accidents in European waters, the sinking of the ‘Estonia’. The proposed amendment ensures, as far as possible, consistency with the international standards for stability of damaged passenger ships, which were recently updated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the 2020 SOLAS Convention. The IMO is introducing a new model for assessing the survivability of damaged ro-ro passenger ships, as well as new related requirements. However, these new international standards appear to be insufficient in the light of the requirements already in force in the Union for new small vessels, which is why the proposal maintains a level of safety requirements equivalent to existing Union law. The proposal also aims to strengthen the fleet entry requirements within the Union for existing large vessels that have not yet been certified in the Union. The Council text maintained the general approach of the Commission proposal, with the exception of an extension of the transposition deadline from 12 to 24 months, in line with the Council’s position. Next steps The general approach adopted today will allow the Council Presidency to start negotiations with the European Parliament (trilogues) once the latter has adopted its position. Commission proposal Directive 2003/25/EC (OJ L 123, 17.5.2003, p. 22)

Press material Thursday 2 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   02/06/2022 15:27 | Press release | Cohesion in Europe towards 2050: Council approves conclusions   The Council today approved conclusions on the Commission's 8th report on the European cohesion policy. In its conclusions, the Council acknowledges that the report comes in the context of crises (COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine) and long-term challenges (such as climate and demographic changes) which have an asymmetric impact on EU member states and regions. The Council underlines that cohesion policy should take proper account of the needs and potential of territories, enabling them to target the most relevant investments locally.

The French Presidency of the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament today reached a provisional political agreement on a new regul… Press material Thursday 2 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   02/06/2022 19:31 | Press release | Council and Parliament reach provisional political agreement on the new Regulation on agricultural input and output statistics (SAIO)   The French Presidency of the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament today reached a provisional political agreement on a new regulation on statistics on agricultural inputs and products (SAIO). This regulation is part of the modernization of the European system of agricultural statistics and, by improving and strengthening statistics on agricultural inputs and products in agriculture, should help to improve knowledge of agricultural practices and production in connection with the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the Green Pact for Europe and the "farm to fork" strategy. The revision of the SAIO regulation concerns data on agricultural production, crop products, agricultural inputs and prices. It will aim to provide more accurate statistics on agricultural inputs (prices of seeds, pesticides, feed, etc.) and products (crop and livestock production and prices) collected from farms, administrative sources, intermediaries (dairies, etc.), wholesale entities and market organizations. The co-legislators agreed on the scope of the new SAIO regulation, the frequency of transmission of the data collected, in particular for plant protection products (PPP) and organic farming. As regards organic farming, the co-legislators agreed on the need to ensure that the available statistics are consistent with other agricultural production statistics by integrating them into the datasets. For plant protection products (PPPs), a transitional period of three years from 2025 has been agreed, with an intermediate data collection for the reference year 2026. From base year 2028 onwards, data collection will be annual with annual publication from 2030 onwards. However, these annual data collections are conditional on the existence of electronic registers for professional users of plant protection products. The collection of PPP data will be based on a common list of representative crops, which will evolve during the transition period. The SAIO Regulation provides for European funding during this transitional period to help national statistical authorities prepare for the annual collection of PPP data. Finally, the co-legislators agreed that the revised SAIO regulation should contain appropriate safeguard clauses to avoid an increased administrative burden for farmers and national administrations.

Press material Friday 3 June 2022

● Council of the EU   03/06/2022 09:54 | Press release | Russia’s aggression against Ukraine: EU adopts sixth package of sanctions   In light of Russia’s continuing war of aggression against Ukraine and Belarus' support to it, as well as the reported atrocities committed by Russian armed forces in Ukraine, the Council decided today to impose a sixth package of economic and individual sanctions targeting both Russia and Belarus. "With today’s package, we are increasing limitations to the Kremlin’s ability to finance the war by imposing further economic sanctions. We are banning the import of Russian oil into the EU and with this cutting a massive source of revenue for Russia. We are cutting off more of the key Russian banks from the international payment system SWIFT. We are also sanctioning those responsible for the atrocities that took place in Bucha and Mariupol and banning more disinformation actors actively contributing to President Putin’s war propaganda." Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy The agreed package includes a series of measures intended to effectively thwart Russian abilities to continue the aggression. Oil The EU decided to prohibit the purchase, import or transfer of crude oil and certain petroleum products from Russia into the EU. The phasing out of Russian oil will take from 6 months for crude oil to 8 months for other refined petroleum products. A temporary exception is foreseen for imports of crude oil by pipeline into those EU member states that, due to their geographic situation, suffer from a specific dependence on Russian supplies and have no viable alternative options. Moreover, Bulgaria and Croatia will also benefit from temporary derogations concerning the import of Russian seaborne crude oil and vacuum gas oil respectively. De-SWIFTing of additional Russian and Belarusian banks The EU is extending the existing prohibition on the provision of specialised financial messaging services (SWIFT) to three additional Russian credit institutions - Russia's largest bank Sberbank, Credit Bank of Moscow, and Russian Agricultural Bank - and the Belarusian Bank For Development And Reconstruction. Broadcasting The EU is suspending the broadcasting activities in the EU of three more Russian state-owned outlets: Rossiya RTR/RTR Planeta, Rossiya 24 / Russia 24 and TV Centre International. These structures have been used by the Russian Government as instruments to manipulate information and promote disinformation about the invasion of Ukraine, including propaganda, with the aim to destabilise Russia's neighbouring countries and the EU and its member states. In line with the Charter of Fundamental Rights, these measures will not prevent those media outlets and their staff from carrying out activities in the EU other than broadcasting, e.g. research and interviews. Export restrictions The EU is expanding the list of persons and entities concerned by export restrictions regarding dual-use goods and technology. Such additions to the list include both Russian and Belarusian entities. Moreover, the EU will expand the list of goods and technology which may contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia’s defence and security sector. This will include 80 chemicals which can be used to produce chemical weapons. Consulting services The EU will prohibit the provision of accounting, public relations and consultancy services, as well as cloud services to Russia. Individual listings Furthermore, the Council decided to sanction additional individuals and entities: those responsible for the atrocities committed by Russian troops in Bucha and Mariupol, personalities supporting the war, leading businesspersons and family members of listed oligarchs and Kremlin officials, as well as companies in the defence and a financial organisation. The EU resolutely condemns Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. It urges Russia to immediately stop its indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to immediately and unconditionally withdraw all its troops and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders. The atrocities being committed by Russian forces and the suffering and destruction being inflicted are unspeakable. The EU calls on Russia to allow immediate humanitarian access and the safe passage of all civilians concerned. It also calls on Russia to immediately allow the safe return of Ukrainian individuals forcibly removed to Russia. The European Union is unwavering in its commitment to help Ukraine exercise its inherent right of self-defence against the Russian aggression and build a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future. The relevant legal acts will soon be published in the Official Journal. EU restrictive measures in response to the crisis in Ukraine (background information) European Council conclusions on Ukraine, 30 May 2022 Ukraine: Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on Russian atrocities committed in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns (press release 2 April 2022)

Press material Friday 3 June 2022   ● Eurogroup   03/06/2022 10:05 | Press release | Harald Waiglein reappointed chair of the financial services committee for third term   The financial services committee (FSC) today re-appointed Harald Waiglein as his chair for a third two-year term, starting on 14 June 2022. Harald Waiglein is the Director General for Economic and Finance at the Austrian ministry of finance. In this capacity, he represents Austria at the economic and financial committee (EFC) and the Eurogroup working group (EWG). He was first appointed FSC chair on 14 June 2018. The FSC is a Council working group, composed of high-level representatives of the member states and the European Commission dealing with financial services matters. The committee serves as a forum for cross-sectoral strategic reflection in the area of financial services: it considers sensitive short-term issues while helping define medium and long-term strategies on these issues. It works closely with the EFC in preparing economic and financial affairs Council (ECOFIN) meetings. The Financial Services Committee was first set up in 2003. Harald Waiglein's bio Financial Services Committee (FSC) (background) Press material Friday 3 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   03/06/2022 14:45 | Press release | Belarus: EU adopts new round of restrictive measures over internal repression   The Council today decided to impose restrictive measures on an additional 12 individuals and 8 entities for their role in the ongoing internal repression and human rights abuses in Belarus. These measures are in addition to those adopted today in the context of Belarus’ involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine and constitute sixth round of sanctions against the Lukashenko regime linked to the domestic situation in Belarus "This illegitimate regime continues wide-spread human rights violations and brutal repression against all segments of the Belarusian society. The European Union continues to stand in solidarity with the people of Belarus. This sixth round of sanctions is another example of our determination to act when human rights are violated." Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Today’s decision targets prominent individuals responsible for continued human rights violation or seriously undermining democracy and the rule of law in Belarus. The listed individuals are responsible for the repression of civil society and the democratic opposition, or benefit from and support the Lukashenko regime. The new listings include high ranking state officials, businessmen and their family, members of the judicial branch, and prominent propagandists, responsible for spreading disinformation and calling for violence. Today's round of sanctions, the sixth since October 2020, also targets companies such as Belaruskali, Belarus’s main potash producer, and its export arm, Belarusian Potash Co., the state television and radio broadcasting company Belteleradio, as well as other companies manufacturing tobacco and public transport vehicles. Altogether, EU restrictive measures on Belarus now apply to a total of 195 individuals and 35 entities. Those designated are subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Natural persons are additionally subject to a travel ban, which impedes them from entering or transiting through EU territories. The relevant legal acts, including the names of the persons concerned, have been published in the Official Journal. The EU stands ready to support a peaceful, democratic transition in Belarus. It is also ready to adopt further restrictive measures, if the situation in the country does not improve. Press material Friday 3 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   03/06/2022 14:46 | Press release | Russia’s aggression against Ukraine: the EU targets additional 65 individuals and 18 entities   The Council decided today to impose restrictive measures on an additional 65 individuals and 18 entities in response to Russia’s ongoing unjustified and unprovoked military aggression against Ukraine and other actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. This decision is an integral element of the comprehensive sixth package of sanctions adopted by the Council earlier today. "There can be no impunity for war crimes. We are adding today to our sanctions lists those who are responsible for enabling this unjustified war and the war crimes committed in Bucha and Mariupol, adding more people from the military and economic elites and those with close ties with President Putin supporting his illegitimate aggression against the Ukrainian people." Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy The 65 listed individuals include the military staff that led the actions of those units of the Russian army that killed, raped, and tortured civilians in Ukraine in Bucha, including Colonel Azatbek Omurbekov, who was nicknamed the ’Butcher of Bucha’.. The list also includes those responsible for the inhuman siege of the city of Mariupol, including Colonel-General Mikhail Mizintsev, nicknamed the ‘Butcher of Mariupol’, and those who participated in the creation of the so-called Committee of Salvation for Peace and Order in March 2022 – an organ for collaboration with the Russian occupation in Kherson Oblast. Lastly, the EU is imposing sanctions on politicians, propagandists, leading businesspersons and family members of already sanctioned individuals. The former gymnast and State Duma member Alina Kabaeva is also included in the list as a close associate of President Vladimir Putin. The 18 sanctioned entities include a variety of companies supporting, directly or indirectly, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Russian Federation, including Russia's largest securities depository, the National Settlement Depository. Altogether, EU restrictive measures now apply to a total of 1,158 individuals and 98 entities. Those designated are subject to an asset freeze, and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Natural persons are additionally subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU territories. The EU resolutely condemns Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. It urges Russia to immediately stop its indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to immediately and unconditionally withdraw all its troops and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders. The atrocities being committed by Russian forces and the suffering and destruction being inflicted are unspeakable. The EU calls on Russia to allow immediate humanitarian access and the safe passage of all civilians concerned. It also calls on Russia to immediately allow the safe return of Ukrainian individuals forcibly removed to Russia. The European Union is unwavering in its commitment to help Ukraine exercise its inherent right of self-defence against the Russian aggression and build a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future. The relevant legal acts, including the names of the listed individuals and entities, have been published in the Official Journal of the EU. Official Journal of the EU, 3 June 2022 (including a list of the sanctioned individuals and entities) Russia’s aggression against Ukraine: EU adopts sixth package of sanctions (press release, 3 June 2022) EU restrictive measures in response to the crisis in Ukraine (policy page) European Council conclusions on Ukraine, 30 May 2022 Ukraine: Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on Russian atrocities committed in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns, 2 April 2022 Press material Friday 3 June 2022   ● Council of the EU   03/06/2022 15:47 | Press release | Ukraine: Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on attempts of the Russian Federation to forcefully integrate parts of Ukrainian territory   The European Union strongly condemns the Russian Presidential decrees of 25 May and 30 May, simplifying the process for granting Russian citizenship and issuing Russian passports to Ukrainian citizens of the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions which are temporarily under military control of Russian invading troops, as well as to Ukrainian children without parental care and legally incapacitated persons from Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. The European Union will not recognise these passports, issued as part of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The European Union strongly condemns any attempts by Russia to replace democratically elected and legitimate Ukrainian administrations. The European Union also condemns the attempts to introduce the Russian rouble as a parallel currency to the Ukrainian hryvnia as well as the attempts to impose Russian curricula and education materials and change the language of tuition in schools in those parts of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions which are currently under the illegal control of invading Russian armed forces. Any attempts to alter the status of parts of Ukrainian territory are a clear violation of international law, the UN Charter and Ukraine’s Constitution, they further undermine sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and will not be recognised by the European Union. Russia, its political leadership, and all those involved in violations of international law and international humanitarian law will be held accountable for these illegal actions. The European Union remains unwavering in its support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and urges the Russian Federation to immediately and unconditionally withdraw all of its troops and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.

Meetings Friday 3 June 2022

● Council of the EU   03/06/2022 16:25 | MEETING | Main results - Foreign Affairs Council (Trade), 3 June 2022   Trade ministers had an exchange of views on preparations for the 12th World Trade Organization ministerial conference. They also discussed the current state of EU-US trade relations, the recent developments and main orientations in trade relations with China, and the state of play of ongoing bilateral trade negotiations and the implementation of agreements.

Council of the EU
Foreign Affairs Council (Trade), 3 June 2022

Main results
WTO reform and preparations for the 12th WTO ministerial conference

Ministers discussed preparations for the 12th World Trade Organization ministerial conference (CM12), which will take place in Geneva from 12 to 15 June 2022 against the backdrop of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ministers expressed broad support for the Commission’s suggested line of action for the 12th ministerial conference, in particular regarding the possible outcomes, such as:a ministerial declaration on the WTO’s response to global trade challenges with reference to the reform of the organisation, dispute settlement, development and the environment
a declaration on the WTO’s response to the pandemic and a decision on the waiver of trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights (TRIPS)
decisions in support of food security, together with work programmes aimed at moving forward on the 13th ministerial conference on agriculture reform
the conclusion of the fisheries subsidies negotiations
the extension of the moratorium on e-commerce until CM13

Ministers also expressed their solidarity with Ukraine and their concern over the repercussions of the Russia's war of aggression, supported by Belarus, against Ukraine on world trade and on the future results of CM12.

The Foreign Affairs Council (Trade) will meet again in Geneva on 12 June in the margins of the WTO ministerial conference, as well as at the end of it.
EU-US trade relations

The Council held an exchange of views on the current state of EU-US trade relations and recent developments, including the results of the 12th meeting of the EU–US Trade and Technology Council (TTC) held on 16 May at Paris-Saclay, and the outlook for those relations.

Ministers highlighted the positive dynamic in relations with the US. Regarding recent developments, ministers stressed that the consequences of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine on the geopolitical situation made relations with the US all the more important. In that context, ministers expressed their commitment to advancing a positive, forward-looking transatlantic agenda.

The Council praised the work of the TTC as an important factor in restoring a culture of cooperation, while respecting the regulatory autonomy of the EU and the US.

Ministers expressed their commitment to continuing their intensive work with a view to achieving further concrete results before the next TTC meeting, which will take place before the end of the year.

To maintain the current positive momentum in bilateral trade relations, ministers stressed the importance to continue working to definitively settle existing disputes (e.g. over the Airbus/Boeing subsidies and over ‘Section 232’ tariffs on European steel and aluminium) and to prevent new barriers to bilateral trade from arising.

In order to maintain the current positive momentum in bilateral trade relations, ministers stressed the importance of continuing to work on the final settlement of existing disputes (e.g. Airbus/Boeing subsidies and European steel and aluminium tariffs under “Section 232”) and of preventing the emergence of new barriers to bilateral trade.Paris-Saclay TTC - Joint statement (in English)
EU-China trade relations

Ministers took stock of the recent developments and main orientations in trade relations with China, particularly with an eye to an EU-China high-level economic and trade dialogue.

Ministers reaffirmed the conclusions of the EU-China summit on 1 April 2022, in which the EU stressed the need to address long-standing concerns about market access and investment conditions in China, in order to ensure balanced and reciprocal trade and economic relations. On that occasion, EU and Chinese leaders also mandated the high-level economic and trade dialogue to find tangible ways to make progress on these issues before the summer. Ministers also addressed barriers to trade and investment in China, including the coercive measures against Lithuania.

Lastly, ministers noted the importance of strong engagement with China, while strengthening the EU’s resilience through autonomous measures.EU-China summit via video conference, 1 April 2022
EU-China – a strategic vision
Bilateral trade negotiations

Over lunch, ministers discussed the state of play in ongoing bilateral trade and investment negotiations, in particular those with New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia and India. The Council also discussed the state of play of work on the draft agreements with Mexico, Chile and Mercosur. Work by the Council on those agreements will continue.

The Council reflected on concrete actions aimed at improving the implementation and enforcement of trade agreements and preventing and eliminating trade barriers. Ministers highlighted the importance of effective implementation ofthose trade agreements both for European businesses and for civil society. They also exchanged views on the ongoing review of the EU’s approach to sustainable development in trade agreements.



The Council also adopted without discussion the items on the lists of legislative and non-legislative ‘A’ items.


Meeting information

Meeting n°3876
Luxembourg
3 June 2022
09:30
Preparatory documentsProvisional agenda
Background brief
Provisional list of A items
List of A items, legislative deliberations
List of A items, non-legislative activities
Outcome documentsList of participants
Video footage

Press material Friday 3 June 2022

● General Secretariat   03/06/2022 17:47 | Press release | Forward look: 6 - 19 June 2022   Overview of the main topics and events at the Council of EU and European Council for the coming fortnight. Competitiveness Council, 9-10 June 2022 On Thursday, ministers responsible for the internal market and industry will meet in Luxembourg to discuss the European Chips Act and strategic industrial ecosystems. On Friday, ministers responsible for research and space will meet to discuss support for young researchers in times of crisis and the European space programme. EU missions, Copernicus by 2035 and Space Traffic Management are also on the agenda. Read more Justice and Home Affairs Council, 9-10 June 2022 Justice ministers will aim to reach a general approach on two proposals to modernise judicial cooperation. They will exchange views on fighting impunity in the context of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and discuss a proposal to strengthen the environmental crime directive. Home affairs ministers will discuss the situation in the Schengen area and aim to adopt a general approach on the reform of the Schengen Borders Code. They will also be invited to agree on draft legislation to improve law enforcement cooperation. Ministers will discuss the response to the situation in Ukraine. Read more Foreign Affairs Council (Trade), 12-15 June 2022 The Foreign Affairs Council (Trade) will meet again on 12 June in Geneva, in the margins of the 12th WTO ministerial conference. Read more Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 13 June 2022 EU agriculture ministers will meet in Luxembourg to discuss the state of implementation of the EU common fisheries policy and consultations for fishing opportunities for 2023. They will further exchange views on the application of EU standards on imported agricultural and agri-food products, and discuss the situation of agricultural markets in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Read more Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (Health), 14 June 2022 Ministers will hold two policy debates – about the European Health Data Space (EHDS) and the revision of the EU’s global health strategy. Read more Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (Social), 16 June 2022 The presidency will inform about the state of play as regards the draft law on improving working conditions in platform work. Ministers plan to adopt recommendations on individual learning accounts and on ensuring a fair transition towards climate neutrality. They will also hold policy debates on the European Semester, on national objectives to reach the European Social Rights Action Plan headline targets and on employment of people with disabilities. Read more Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 17 June 2022 The Council will complete several steps in the procedure to allow Croatia to join the euro area. It will also discuss the European Semester, the RRF, sanctions against Russia, and the EU's new own resources. The Council will aim to make progress on the pillar 2 directive, the Solvency II directive and the alternative investment fund managers directive. Read more Other events Eurogroup, 16 June 2022 Indicative calendar of meetings under the French presidency (1 January - 30 June 2022) French presidency website

Press material Friday 3 June 2022

● European Council   03/06/2022 12:06 | Media advisory | “Women in Conflicts”: Second edition   On Thursday 9 June 2022 the President of the European Council Charles Michel, will co-host the second edition of “Women in Conflicts” in Brussels, bringing together women leaders and survivors of conflicts. The event, co-hosted with UN Women, Nadia’s Initiative and the Dr. Denis Mukwege Foundation, will focus on survivors, justice and reparation, and women’s leadership in conflict. The First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska and Nadia Murad, Nobel Peace Prize laureate will join the event. The second edition is a follow-up to the “Women in Conflicts” organised in New York City on 21 September 2021. Activists, peace ambassadors and world leaders then highlighted the need to ensure rights of women and girls and their full participation in shaping peace and reconciliation. Programme and speakers The event will be held in person on Thursday 9 June 2022 at 16:00, at the Council of the European Union in Brussels (Europa Building). Opening Session (16:00) Olena Zelenska, First Lady of Ukraine (via remote connection) Nadia Murad, Nobel Peace Prize laureate (full list of speakers will be announced shortly) Access & registration A limited number of journalists will be able to attend live. Interested journalists must register via this form before Tuesday 7 June 12:00. Places are very limited and registrations will be handled on a first come, first served basis. The event can be watched in Council’s premises (Justus Lipsius press room). Video & photos will be available at the Council Newsroom, https://council.eu/tv Livestreaming on Council live and social media channels: Twitter: https://twitter.com/eucopresident (@eucopresident), https://twitter.com/eucouncil (@EUCouncil) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CharlesMichel, https://www.facebook.com/eucouncil LinkedIn: https://be.linkedin.com/in/charlesmicheleu2019 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/eucouncil Hashtag: #WomenInConflicts