COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,update

 

Meetings Friday, 23 May 2025

● Council of the EU   23/05/2025 18:51 | Meetings | Main results - Competitiveness Council (Research and space), 23 May 2025   Research ministers discussed the mid-term evaluation of Horizon Europe and the European Research area policy agenda and approved conclusions on AI in science. Ministers responsible for space approved conclusions on the use of space data for civil protection and exchanged views about space data for resilience and security.

● European Council

23/05/2025 18:54 | Press release | EU-Brazil relations: President Costa to travel to Brazil to strengthen partnership and launch investment dialogues   The President of the European Council, António Costa, will travel to Brazil from 27 to 29 May 2025, with official engagements in Brasília and São Paulo. This mission marks a renewed political momentum in EU-Brazil relations and reflects the importance of Brazil as a key strategic partner. During the visit, President Costa will meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and will deliver a keynote address at the inaugural EU-Brazil Investment Forum. The visit comes at a pivotal moment for EU-Brazil relations, as both partners seek to advance joint priorities on climate action, digital transformation, sustainable development and global governance, and reinforce high-level political and economic ties. “Brazil is not just a close friend, it is a strategic partner for the EU – a global player and a key ally in promoting democracy, multilateralism and shaping a more just and sustainable world. In times when these values are challenged globally, it is even more crucial that countries like Brazil and the European Union stand together to uphold them. This visit is an opportunity to deepen our cooperation and further work towards an ambitious global agenda that benefits both our citizens and our planet. Together, we are investing in trust, sustainability and an international order rooted in cooperation, not confrontation.” — António Costa, President of the European Council During his meeting with President Lula in Brasília on 27 May, President Costa will focus on reinforcing political, economic and sectoral cooperation, particularly in view of Brazil’s upcoming presidency of COP30. The two presidents will exchange views on their bilateral and global priorities, including climate change, trade, the green and digital transitions and critical raw materials. They will also discuss the global geopolitical context and how to maximize the benefits of the EU-Mercosur Agreement, the negotiations of which were concluded last December. The following day, on 29 May, the President will head to São Paulo to deliver remarks at the inaugural EU-Brazil investment forum and formally launch the EU-Brazil Investment Dialogue. This new framework will support high-standard and sustainable investments and further strengthen economic ties. At a time when bilateral relations face growing strains and multilateralism is under pressure, the visit will highlight the EU’s commitment to an ambitious and forward-looking strategic partnership with Brazil, underpinned by strong political ties, robust economic cooperation and a shared commitment to tackling global challenges together. Background Brazil has been a strategic partner of the EU since 2007. The EU is Brazil’s second-largest trading partner and its largest foreign investor, with over €300 billion in direct investment stocks. Since President Lula took office in 2023, EU-Brazil ties have gained new dynamism, with revived and new political and sectoral dialogues on climate, energy, digital transformation, security, and public health. The conclusion of negotiations of the EU-Mercosur Agreement in December 2024 has added further impetus to the relationship. The EU and Brazil also cooperate closely in the UN and the G20, within the framework of the EU-CELAC summit and through new initiatives such as the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty and the G20 coalition for regional vaccine production. Press opportunities Press point at EU-Brazil investment forum in São Paulo on 29 May at 10:00 (local time).   Contact: Cristoph Oversohl christoph.oversohl@eeas.europa.eu ● Council of the EU   23/05/2025 16:34 | Press release | Council calls for a better use of space data to enhance crisis management   The Council has today approved conclusions on the use of satellite data, in particular from Earth observation constellations, for civil protection and crisis management. The conclusions underline the importance of Earth observation and other space data for resilience and crisis preparedness, underline the need for enhanced cooperation and use of all available satellite data - public, private, and commercial - to better address climate change, disasters, and crises impacting European and global security, call for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies for better data processing and recommend security measures against possible threats (such as cyber-attacks). “Space technology, due to the geopolitical situation, but also due to the occurrence of natural disasters, is becoming one of the important aspects for ensuring Europe's security. The opportunities offered by satellite data from Earth observation, satellite navigation and communication should be leveraged. It is a powerful tool for anticipating threats and helping to manage crises more effectively. The data obtained, through better coordination, information sharing and the use of artificial intelligence, can help improve situational analysis and modelling. It is therefore crucial today to ensure real-time, secure and reliable access to satellite data. Europe has the potential to be exploited - innovative companies, start-ups, academia, a modern and committed administration - by creating the conditions for cooperation, guaranteeing a higher level of security.” — Michał Baranowski, Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology The critical importance of space data The Council conclusions underline the vast potential of space data, in particular from various Earth observation satellites, such as Copernicus, the Earth observation component of the EU’s Space programme, for increasing resilience and for crisis management. The EU’s capabilities can be further developed through member states and industry cooperation, better data processing, and the use of AI applications for enhancing threat prediction and for crisis management (including supporting decision-making). Better resilience and preparedness According to the conclusions approved today, quality satellite data help member states identify threats and respond to situations such as natural disasters, environmental hazards and public health threats. The crisis prevention and response capabilities of the member states can be further enhanced through better coordination of the various data sources. Space data can help identify future risks, such as pollution, floods, wildfires, degradation of land and natural resources, irregular migration flows, etc. AI for better space data analysis The conclusions recognise that for the treatment of the vast amount of Earth observation space data, AI can play a crucial role in identifying patterns and anomalies, integrating high altitude imagery and developing modelling systems. The Commission, together with the relevant European and international bodies, can support member states to process and distribute this data to inform their decision-making in case of crisis. The conclusions underline that implementation of the existing AI regulatory framework (such as the AI act) is necessary to and to the integrity of data used for crisis management. The way forward The conclusions make several recommendations for improving the use of satellite data in the future. For instance, they call for the integration of new and existing systems, the interoperability of infrastructures, the use of common standards and the support initiatives for the harmonisation of procedures. The Council also stresses the importance of protecting satellite data collection, in particular against cyber threats, and the need to take measures to reinforce the security of both data and infrastructure. The conclusions underline the importance of research and development on data processing and AI, on the use of existing and future infrastructures to support operators, in particular SMEs, and on the use of Earth observation data in new applications. Cooperation between administrations, academia and industry will be particularly important in this context. Finally, the conclusions encourage the Commission and the member states to improve resilience and crisis preparedness by using well-coordinated and interoperable resources, by integrating AI into data analysis and by providing strong cybersecurity protection for data and infrastructure. Background The Council has approved several sets of important conclusions on the contribution of the space sector to reaching EU policy objectives. The 2021 conclusions on ‘new space for people’ highlighted the potential of high-resolution data and AI for improving Earth observation for non-technical uses. In 2022, the Council emphasised the importance of Earth observation data for EU security and resilience, in its conclusions on ‘Copernicus by 2035’, and advocated for the use of space data in supporting the green and digital transitions. In 2023 the Council approved conclusions on integrating space into security and defence strategies, and on the possible development of a new Earth observation service. In 2024, the Council underlined space’s growing role in addressing socio-economic challenges, particularly climate change. Lastly, in 2024, in its conclusions on the interim evaluation of the EU Space Programme, the Council emphasised the need to protect critical space infrastructure against increasing cybersecurity threats. Council conclusions on use of satellite data, in particular from Earth Observation constellations, for civil protection and crisis management, 23 May 2025 Council conclusions on the interim evaluation of the European Union's Space Programme, 29 November 2024 Council conclusions on Strengthening Europe’s competitiveness through space, 23 May 2024 Council conclusions on the EU Space Strategy for Security and Defence, 13 November 2023 Council conclusions on Copernicus by 2035, 10 June 2023 Council conclusions on ‘new space for people’, 21 May 2021 ● Council of the EU   23/05/2025 13:37 | Press release | Council calls for an inclusive, ethical, sustainable and human-centric strategy for the uptake of AI in science   Today, the Council has approved a set of conclusions titled ‘Towards the EU strategy on AI in science’. In this document, the Council calls for a comprehensive strategy to boost the uptake of AI in science, with an ethical, sustainable, inclusive and human-centric approach. “Artificial intelligence can completely transform scientific discovery, boost innovation, and enhance the productivity of our researchers. Europe must seize these opportunities quickly, while also addressing the ethical and societal challenges and risks of this rapidly advancing technology.” — Marcin Kulasek, Polish minister of Science and Higher Education A game change technology The Council conclusions recognise that the rapid development of AI and its applications in scientific research has led to groundbreaking achievements, transforming the way science is practiced. AI is used extensively in data analysis, simulations, and large language models, driving new discoveries and enhancing research efficiency. The conclusions underline the importance of AI in supporting both basic and applied research, and its critical role in addressing global challenges and improving competitiveness, societal needs, and the digital transition in Europe. AI collaboration, especially reciprocal and non-discriminatory partnerships at the international level, is key to enhancing scientific exchange, ensuring interoperability, and promoting responsible AI development. The conclusions emphasise the importance of ethical, sustainable, and inclusive AI use in science, which will help strengthen research, innovation (R&I), and global competitiveness. The text recalls that AI systems and models specifically developed and put into service for the sole purpose of scientific research and development are exempt from the AI Act. Time to act Despite the growing significance of AI in science, the EU currently lacks a dedicated policy to facilitate the uptake of AI in science, the conclusions warn. A new European strategy for AI in science is under development by the Commission, which the conclusions emphasise should be based on the best available knowledge and practice and developed in close cooperation with the member states and the R&I community. In particular, the strategy should complement existing initiatives and focus on interdisciplinary research ecosystems, coordinated policy developments, upskilling researchers, and ensuring open access to reliable data. This strategy should also emphasise the responsible and ethical use of AI tools in research and innovation (R&I), ensuring privacy, data integrity, and security. Furthermore, the text calls for a common European agenda to support AI research communities and improve access to data, computational resources, and scientific talent. The conclusions take note of the Commission’s idea to establish a European AI Research Council, while calling the Commission to work with member states on the details of this initiative, in particular its mission and governance to make the best use of existing initiatives and structures. AI skills for the scientific community The conclusions also stress the importance of upskilling and reskilling in AI for researchers and innovators, aiming to bridge the digital skills gap through education and training programmes. This includes initiatives to attract, retain, and bring back AI talent to Europe, especially from underrepresented groups, and foster diversity and gender balance in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields. Risk control AI adoption in science also presents risks such as biased algorithms, data manipulation, and ethical concerns, which could lead to misinformation or disruptions. To mitigate these risks, the Council urges the development of quality benchmarks, guidelines, and best practices for AI use in research, ensuring integrity, transparency, and reproducibility of scientific work. The Council encourages open data sharing in line with FAIR (findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability) principles, promoting data accessibility, interoperability, and ethical AI practices. In conclusion, the Council calls for enhancing the integration of AI in science through policy support, fostering collaboration, ensuring ethical standards, and providing resources for AI training. Background According to the Commission’s Group of chief scientific advisors, AI is one of the most disruptive sets of technologies and is quickly becoming a transformative tool for scientific processes. The share of scientists using AI in research increased from 12% in 2020 to 16% in 2021. In the European Research Council, the use of AI covers almost all fields. In 2021-2022, about one quarter of AI projects in the Joint Research Centre used AI related technologies. Commission’s communication: Coordinated plan on artificial intelligence Council conclusions on European Court of Auditors Special Report ‘EU Artificial Intelligence ambition – Stronger governance and increased, more focused investment essential going forward’ Council conclusions on the new European innovation agenda

● Council of the EU

23/05/2025 12:11 | Press release | Council endorses the European research area policy agenda for the next three years   The Council has today reached a political agreement on a council recommendation to adopt the European Research Area (ERA) Policy Agenda 2025–2027. The ERA policy agenda is a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing Europe’s research and innovation (R&I) ecosystem, addressing key challenges like knowledge mobility, sustainability and international competitiveness, while ensuring measurable outcomes and broad voluntary participation by Member States and stakeholders. “For 25 years, the ERA has helped the research and innovation community to coordinate their efforts and to achieve amazing results. The Policy Agenda for 2025–2027 will be the roadmap to navigate this common space: a true liberty of movement for researchers in the biggest research and innovation ecosystem of the world.” — Marcin Kulasek, Polish minister of science and higher education The agenda is designed around 11 ERA structural policies and 8 ERA actions, with a focus respectively on long-term efforts and short-term goals. These initiatives will be carried out voluntarily by the Member States on the basis of the variable geometry principle, allowing flexibility to participate. The ERA Policy Agenda is key to implementing ERA priorities and to coordinate the work of the European Commission, Member States, associated countries and stakeholders. Key features of the Policy Agenda The recommendation sets up the main ERA structural policies and ERA actions of the Policy Agenda. The ERA structural policies are long-term activities that require coordination between member states, the European Commission and stakeholders, aiming for measurable outcomes within three years. They focus on areas such as: Open science, gender equality and career sustainability in R&I Strengthening research infrastructures and international collaboration Reforming research assessments and boosting knowledge valorisation ERA actions are specific, goal-oriented initiatives designed to deliver direct and measurable value and they should be completed within the three-year timeframe. Some examples include: Promoting equity in open science Advancing AI in scientific research Enhancing research security The ERA structural policies and ERA actions are organised upon the four priority areas, as set out in the pact for R&I in Europe: Internal market for knowledge: Focusing on the free movement of researchers, data and ideas to boost the EU’s international competitiveness and address fragmentation in European research. Green and digital transitions: Promoting R&I to address societal challenges, with actions such as enhancing energy technology and improving citizen participation in science. Access to research excellence: Aiming to reduce disparities in R&I opportunities and empower research management across the EU. Research and innovation investments: Focusing on transnational cooperation and avoiding fragmentation in R&I funding to boost EU’s innovation capacity. Monitoring and implementation According to the recommendation, the ERA Forum and the European research and innovation area committee (ERAC) will guide the strategic and governance aspects of the agenda, ensuring inclusive, transparent and coordinated implementation. Member states are encouraged to collaborate with stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society, to support the agenda’s goals. Background The European research area was launched in 2000 with the aim of creating a single market for research and innovation to encourage the free movement of researchers, scientific knowledge and innovation, and fostering a more competitive European industry. Recommendations are non-binding EU acts foreseen in Article 288 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. They allow the EU institutions to make their views known and to suggest a line of action without imposing any legal obligation on those to whom it is addressed. Commission’s proposal of the Council Recommendation for the ERA agenda 2025-2027 Council Recommendation on a Pact for Research and Innovation European Research Area (background information)

● Council of the EU

23/05/2025 12:00 | Media advisory | (CHANGE OF DATE) Press briefing - General Affairs Council of 27 May 2025   The press briefing ahead of the General Affairs Council will take place on Monday, 26 May 2025 at 14.30 in the Europa building press room. This briefing will be "off the record". The press briefing will take place in a hybrid format: EU accredited journalists will be able to participate and ask questions either remotely or in person. To attend the event remotely, please use this link to register and have the possibility to ask questions. Those who already registered for previous press events of the General Affairs Council do not need to do it again. Deadline for registration: Monday, 26 May 2025 at 13.30 Further instructions will be sent to all registered participants shortly after the deadline. ● Council of the EU   23/05/2025 09:28 | Meetings | Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 26 May 2025   Background brief - Agriculture and Fisheries Council of 26 May 2025