EUROGROUP,COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,update

 

Press material Wednesday, 19 November 2025

● Council of the EU   19/11/2025 02:37 | Press release | Council and Parliament agree on rules for a better management and increased use of Europe’s railway infrastructure   Council and Parliament negotiators reached today a provisional agreement to harmonise, simplify and rationalise the management of the available capacity for trains on the EU’s rail network, both within and across member states. This new approach will allow for more frequent and reliable passenger and freight rail services. “This agreement aims to contribute to a more efficient use of Europe's rail infrastructure through harmonisation of capacity management, more efficient allocation processes, and a strengthened cross-border cooperation.” — Thomas Danielsen, Minister for Transport To improve the capacity planning of trains on the EU’s rail network, today’s agreement updates the EU-wide framework for capacity management. Taking into account the digitalisation of rail operations, it includes general rules for capacity management during the planning, scheduling, allocation and rescheduling of slots on the EU’s rail network. The new rules will introduce a longer-term planning of train services beyond the annual working timetable while also making it easier to plan additional train services at short notice. Today, the capacity of passenger and freight train traffic is managed by national infrastructure managers on an annual basis. This is a complex task, as both passenger and freight trains share the same tracks, but travel for example at different speeds and have different stopping patterns. While cross border rail traffic is on the rise, the scheduling of international rail services can be challenging, as each of the infrastructure manager allocates rail capacity based on their own national framework and timetable design. ENIM’s key role While national infrastructure managers will remain in the lead of the coordination and planning processes, so that each member state can ensure that the planning and use of their rail capacity is consistent with their objectives and policy decisions, the European Network of Infrastructure Managers (ENIM) will play a key role, developing three frameworks. First, ENIM will be tasked with the development of a European framework for capacity management. The framework will include guidelines and criteria for the different aspects and steps for the long-term planning of capacity and the allocation of train services. It will serve as a guide for each of the national infrastructure managers. Secondly, ENIM will also develop a European framework for the coordination of cross-border traffic management, disruption management and crisis management, used by infrastructure managers to manage changes to the allocated capacity rights. Thirdly, ENIM will develop a European framework for performance review that will allow to monitor the developments in rail transport. An approach tailored to each rail network The provisional agreement allows member states to provide strategic guidance to factor in the unique circumstances of each of their rail networks. However, they must coordinate with one another and ensure consistency between their priorities, especially with neighbouring member states. The guidance will also help set the social, economic, operational, and environmental criteria used to manage situations where too many requests are made for the same part of the network during planning and conflict resolution. Next steps This provisional agreement will now need to be confirmed by the member states’ representatives within the Council (Coreper) and by the European Parliament. It will then be formally adopted by both institutions. Background The sustainable and smart mobility strategy (SSMS) outlines the EU’s roadmap towards a more sustainable, smart, and resilient transport system. One of its key objectives is to increase rail freight traffic by 50% by 2030 and to double it by 2050. To reach these goals, rail transport must become more affordable, reliable, and accessible, with services that better meet the needs of both passengers and freight operators. Council position on the regulation on the use of railway infrastructure capacity in the single European railway area (press release, 18 June 2024) Rail transport (background information) Better-connected transport (background information) Greener transport (background information)   Visit the website

● European Council

18/11/2025 18:40 | Speech | Speech by President António Costa at the EU Enlargement Forum - 'Completing the Union, securing our future'   It is an honour to speak to you today about a subject that I consider one of the European Union’s most urgent and transformative priorities: enlargement. Since the first days of my mandate as President of the European Council, I have made it a top priority.  On 1 December, I began my mandate in Ukraine, and just two days later, I met with all Western Balkans leaders here in Brussels. It is a priority I deeply believe in. In a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty and economic instability, an enlarged European Union means a stronger, safer, and more peaceful Europe at home and abroad. In today’s multipolar world, only a stronger and united European Union is prepared to defend its interests and values, especially when facing the growing influence of China and Russia. In this multipolar world, only a reliable and predictable European Union, with a network of partners, will be able to enhance its influence and defend the international rules-based order. The next enlargement, to Ukraine, to Moldova and to the Western Balkans, is crucial for strengthening our Union as a geopolitical player. As Europe’s most visionary grand strategy, enlargement is the best investment we can make today for the future of Europe. It strengthens democracy and the rule of law. It expands our space of shared values, shared prosperity, and shared responsibility. The progress we have made over the years has not only helped our new members but has also enhanced the European Union’s resilience. Today, despite the war on our continent and the return of geopolitical rivalries, we are witnessing a renewed momentum in Europe’s enlargement. In fact, enlargement is now moving faster than it has in the last 15 years. If you have read this year’s enlargement report, I am sure you have noticed a key sentence: “This is the first Commission mandate since 2010-2014 where enlargement is a realistic possibility.” And this, ladies and gentlemen, is our objective - my objective - for the coming years. Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkan countries belong in the European Union. In 2025, we saw substantial progress in the enlargement process. Montenegro has made the most progress and, if they continue their reform efforts with the same intensity, they are on track to close negotiations by 2026. And I believe that Montenegro can be the “28 at 28”. Albania has also put in a huge amount of work and has greatly accelerated progress in its path to closing the accession negotiations by the end of 2027. Ukraine - a country at war - and Moldova facing repeated attacks on its democracy and sovereignty, have, in the course of one year, completed the screening of the acquis by the Commission - at record speed. I believe that the success of one of those two countries moving forward will also be a success for the other. Serbia has committed to implementing significant reforms in the coming weeks in areas like audiovisual media policy and energy, and further alignment with European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. Also, Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia can still make progress until the end of the year.And three years after the submission of a membership application, Kosovo should get a positive signal. We cannot overlook the political and geostrategic imperativeof enlargement. As we face external threats, particularly from Russia, the alignment of our candidates with the European Union’s common foreign and security policy is key to ensuring that our values are shared and upheld. This is not just an economic partnership, it’s a strategic one, reinforcing our collective security and global influence. Western Balkan countries and the European Union have seen concrete benefits from this process. The Growth Plans for the Western Balkans and Moldova, worth up to €8 billion, are already improving the lives of people on the ground. From joining the Single Euro Payments Area, to reducing border waiting times, to expanding digital networks, these measures are delivering immediate results. And, starting in January 2026, Moldova and Ukraine will join the European Union’s free-roaming zone, making travel and communication across the continent more affordable for their citizens. Over the last 20 years, the European Union’s previous enlargements have added over 100 million people to our Union, boosting our economy by over €2 trillion. Countries that joined since 2004 have more than doubled their economies, with new European Union members creating 26 million new jobs, over 6 million of those jobs in new member states. This proves that each enlargement has made our Union stronger, economically and politically. Enlargement is not just an abstract ambition; it is a transformational process. It is not a distant dream, but a realistic possibility in the coming years. But to make enlargement a reality, we must do two things simultaneously. First, we need to continue with reforms in our candidate countries, ensuring they meet the European Union’s high standards on democracy, rule of law, and fundamental rights, as reflected in our merit-based approach. And merit-based means exactly that – an accession process evaluated only by Copenhagen criteria, and nothing else. It is not acceptable to continue blocking the accession of some member states for different reasons other than a merit-based approach.    At the same time, the European Union itself must prepare to accommodate new members. This means addressing our own internal challenges and ensuring that we can effectively integrate new members while continuing to function and develop as a cohesive Union. We must allow candidate countries and the European Commission to work together and then evaluate the results in the appropriate moment. The Granada Declaration outlines the importance of ensuring that the European Union’s capacity to enlarge does not undermine its ability to function. Internal reforms will be needed, including adjusting the Multiannual Financial Framework to support the enlargement process and the necessary infrastructure for new members. As we expand, we must also ensure that Accession Treaties contain stronger safeguards against backsliding on the commitments made during negotiations. We need to learn from our own experience. Upholding the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law is non-negotiable. Enlargement is not just about adding more countries. It is about strengthening our Union by ensuring that all members are fully committed to these shared values, and that they remained committed after the accession process. Finally, we must step up our efforts on outreach and communication. Enlargement is not just about negotiations behind closed doors. It is about explaining to both Member States and candidate countries the benefits and challenges of enlargement. This is critical to ensure citizens understand and support the process, which ultimately strengthens the legitimacy and cohesion of the Union as a whole. The success of the European Union came from the brave political determination of our predecessors. Today, we must show that same vision and decisiveness. Accession partners must decide if they have the political will to continue their European transformation, or whether they want to remain trapped by painful historical legacies.  This is the critical question: Can we move beyond a history of division and fragmentation, and, once and for all, embrace the union of a shared future? This is what European Union membership is about: coming together, united in our common aspirations and destiny. The European Union, too, must decide whether it can afford to lose more time or whether it is ready to evolve to meet the challenges of the present and future. I believe Europe must not become a museum of past prosperity. Enlargement is the path forward, and the only way to ensure that Europe remains a global force for peace, prosperity, and stability. We must continue to work together as partners building a Europe that is secure, prosperous, and united. Let us commit to making this vision a reality. Thank you.   Visit the website ● European Council   18/11/2025 15:58 | Media advisory | Press briefing - European Union-African Union summit of 24-25 November 2025   The press briefing ahead of the European Union-African Union summit, Luanda (Angola), 24-25 November 2025, will take place on Wednesday 19 November 2025 at 09.45. 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 in person at the Europa building press room or remotely. To attend the event remotely, please use the link below to register and have the possibility to ask questions. Deadline for registration: Wednesday 19 November 2025 at 08.45. Further instructions will be sent to all registered participants shortly after the deadline. Registration page Media accreditation for journalists   Visit the website   Press material Tuesday, 18 November 2025     ● Council of the EU   18/11/2025 15:50 | Press release | Council and European Parliament agree to establish a platform for non-EU jobseekers ('EU Talent Pool')   The Danish presidency of the Council of the EU and the European Parliament have concluded negotiations on an EU law establishing an EU Talent Pool. The Talent Pool will be an EU-wide digital platform to facilitate international recruitment in sectors where EU member states experience shortages. It will be voluntary for member states to participate in the EU Talent Pool. The online platform will match job vacancies of employers established in the EU with the profiles of non-EU jobseekers residing outside of the EU. The objective of the EU Talent Pool is to make the EU labour market more competitive and to tackle labour market shortages. The right of entry into the EU and the issuance of a residence permit are not regulated by the EU Talent Pool regulation. The EU Talent Pool will provide comprehensive and adequate information to non-EU jobseekers in order to allow them to better navigate the recruitment process in member states and to inform them of their rights, in particular with regard to decent working conditions. Jobseekers from outside the EU will be able to create a profile on the EU Talent Pool platform and provide information about their skills, qualifications, work experience and language skills. In defending the Council's mandate, the Danish presidency has focused on avoiding imposing disproportionate administrative burdens on member states, whilst at the same time ensuring there is a strong framework to prevent the participation of employers who do not comply with relevant law and practice. Immigration procedures Jobseekers who receive a job offer through the EU Talent Pool will have to go through the national immigration procedures when applying for residence and work permits in a member state. The EU Talent Pool platform will also contain comprehensive information on immigration procedures such as how to obtain visas and work residence permits, including the conditions that have to be fulfilled in order to obtain such permits. Safeguards against fraud, abuse and exploitation The Council and Parliament want to make sure that only legitimate employers can advertise on the EU Talent Pool platform. It has been a high priority for the co-legislators to establish the strongest possible framework to prevent labour exploitation of non-EU nationals. With the strengthened safeguards, the EU Talent Pool will not only facilitate the recruitment of international workers, it will also ensure a high degree of transparency with regard to employers using the platform to prevent employers who do not comply with relevant legislation from recruiting via the platform. Member states will for instance check employers who want to use the Talent Pool against a registry of companies that have been suspended, permanently excluded or whose access to the platform has been refused. Furthermore, the participating employers must be established in a participating member state where the non-EU jobseekers will be working. Next steps Today's agreement will have to be confirmed by both institutions before being formally adopted. How the EU manages migration flows (background information)   Visit the website ● Eurogroup   18/11/2025 13:46 | Statements and remarks | Statement from President of the Eurogroup, Paschal Donohoe   The opportunity to serve as President of the Eurogroup has been one of my greatest honours, during my time in public life. Working with colleagues in the Eurogroup, we confronted many challenges, including the Covid pandemic, the effects of soaring inflation due to the unjustified war on the people of Ukraine, and the consequences for Europe of a rapidly changing world. We strengthened the euro due to our collaboration, cooperation and willingness to work together. This is because our currency is more than just an economic project, it is a demonstration of our shared values. I believe we have advanced the euro, including through the coordination of budgetary policies, enlargement to include Croatia and Bulgaria, and our work on Capital Markets Union, the Digital Euro and Banking Union. The importance and benefit of our international cooperation has been a key theme of my public life. The opportunity has now presented itself for me to further contribute to this cooperation at a different level. I will soon be taking up the role of Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer of the World Bank Group, based in Washington DC. I am tendering my resignation as Eurogroup President, and Minister for Finance for Ireland effective from today. Meeting the needs of the most vulnerable and rising to the global challenges of our time have never been more important. The mission of the World Bank is to ‘end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a liveable planet’. It plays a leading role in our world through the development of policies and financial supports that enhance economic resilience and growth for so many. I want to make the case for this work. This post is an opportunity to do so and to continue public service, in a different way. It has been a privilege to serve as President and Member of the Eurogroup; I did my best every single day. I want to do the same in the work of the globally vital institution that I will now join, at a time of great change in our world. Background As per the Eurogroup working methods, the Eurogroup will select a new president as soon as possible and in the meantime, the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Makis Keravnos, will serve as the acting Eurogroup president. Eurogroup Working Methods   Visit the website   Library blog Tuesday, 18 November 2025     ● General Secretariat of the Council   Think Tank Review - November 2025   Civil society’s role in preparing for EU enlargement, the geopolitical potential of Europe’s internal market, EU-China climate relations, managing a changing transatlantic security partnership, China’s policy towards the EU, the future of the World Trade Organization and China’s geopolitical competition with the West are some of the topics covered in this Think Tank Review.   Read full post

● Council of the EU

18/11/2025 10:50 | Press release | Technical harmonisation: Council and Parliament strike a deal to update the requirements of measuring instruments   Today, the Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on amending requirements for measuring instruments sold and placed on the single market. The updated measuring instruments directive (MID) will cover new devices essential for the green and digital transitions, such as electric vehicle chargers, compressed gas dispensers, and thermal energy meters. The revised rules also prioritise digitalisation and smart metering and support the use of emerging gases like hydrogen to help decarbonise industrial processes. “This agreement will help businesses, consumers, and the green transition. The revision harmonizes rules on chargers for electric cars and other vehicles and ensures that they get the electricity they have paid for when charging their cars. The revision is also fully in line with the priorities of the Danish Presidency. I am very pleased that we have reached an agreement on the revision of the measuring instruments directive.” — Morten Bødskov, Danish Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs Expanding the scope to electric vehicle chargers The agreement enlarges the scope of the directive to all electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and mentions explicitly that rail, boats, vessels and aircraft are also covered. The new text addresses the requirements for EVSE’s cables to ensure that if they are damaged or stolen, may be easily replaced without affecting the performance requirements of the measuring device. Clear display requirements Co-legislators have clarified the requirements for displaying measurement results on various instruments. For gas and electricity meters, the results must be shown directly on the meter, either in print or via remote display (allowing data to be viewed from a distance, such as in a different room). However, for electric vehicle chargers (EVSE) or compressed gas dispensers used in transport, the vehicle's screen or another end-user device (such as a smartphone) can also be used to display the data.  With these provisions, the agreement also ensures that cloud-based solutions are possible for smart meters. Energy conversion devices The new legislative text harmonises the conformity assessment criteria for energy conversion devices by introducing a maximum permissible error of 0.05%. An energy conversion device converts measured gas mass or volume into energy by applying the gas calorific value. Transposition of the directive and transitional period The provisional agreement gives member states 24 months to implement the new rules into their national legal framework and will apply 30 months after the entry into force of the directive. To ensure sufficient supply, measuring devices that were in line with the current legislation will be allowed to be placed on the market until the new directive applies. To prevent bottlenecks for notified bodies, the appointment of Notified bodies and their issuing of certificates for products already covered by the MID (gas, electricity, and thermal energy meters) will be advanced to the period between national transposition and the start of application. This would reduce the backlog of products awaiting certification at application time, helping to avoid delays in the certification of electrical vehicle chargers and compressed gas dispenser. Notified bodies (NoBos) are independent organizations designated by EU member states to assess and certify that products meet regulatory requirements before being sold in the EU. Electricity chargers and compress gas dispensers (the two new elements of the directive agreed today) will have a longer transitional period of 48 months to allow the administrations and the industry to prepare for the new rules. The agreement also makes sure that national certificates for measuring devices issued before the approval of these amendments will remain valid for maximum 12 years after the amended directive comes into force. Next steps The provisional agreement now needs to be endorsed and formally adopted by both institutions. Background The Measuring Instruments Directive (MID) was established in 2004 and updated in 2014 to align with the principles of the new legislative framework. This revision introduced a unified set of obligations for economic operators and standardized conformity assessment procedures. However, the existing framework does not account for newer types of measuring instruments, and some key requirements have become outdated and no longer technology-neutral (such as display requirements). This limitation has hindered the adoption of modern digital solutions that would benefit consumers. The provisional agreement also addresses the increasing issue of vandalism and theft of cables at electric vehicle charging stations. Council agrees position on modernised rules for measuring instruments to support green and digital transition (press release, 8 October 2025) Council’s negotiating mandate Commission’s proposal on the amended measuring instruments directive Annexes to the proposal   Visit the website ● European Council   17/11/2025 20:09 | Speech | Speech by President António Costa at the 30th anniversary of the EU membership of Austria, Finland and Sweden   It is truly an honour to address you today, as we gather to mark the 30th anniversary of Austria, Finland, and Sweden joining the European Union. Three countries whose membership has not only enriched our Union but has also shaped Europe into what it is today: stronger and united. When Austria, Finland, and Sweden became full members of the European Union, they not only gained access to the single market. They also took on the responsibility of upholding the Union’s core values: freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. The impact of their accession has been profound, in many ways. They brought political, geographic, and cultural diversity to the European Union. Their presence introduced new approaches that strengthened the Union’s internal dialogue, solidarity, and pluralism, offering fresh perspectives on both Europe and the world. They helped bridge East and West, North and South, as well as the center and the periphery. Additionally, they played a key role in launching what would later become essential European pillars. The Area of Freedom, Security, and Justice, with Finland providing strong momentum in Tampere. The European Pillar of Social Rights, for which Sweden was also instrumental in advancing. The strong commitment to better protection of Jewish communities and institutions, for which Austria was crucial in leading efforts. We are a union of diversity, with each member state having its own culture. From Finnish sisu – which implies perseverance through tough times, something we could all use right now. To Swedish lagom – which means knowing when things are just right, and just enough. A vital skill in solving our shared problems. And to Austrian Gemütlichkeit - a spirit of warmth and togetherness, which reminds us of the importance of building strong relationships across borders. We can't imagine the Union without these three Members and all they have brought to the table. Austria, Finland, and Sweden’s membership has once again proven that enlargement is the best geostrategic investment the European Union can make for prosperity, peace, and stability across our continent. Their accession strengthened the Single Market and our social model. It boosted economic growth and innovation, while prioritizing environmental protection. It also enhanced the European Union’s geopolitical influence and reinforced our foreign and security policies. And more recently, they played a key role in advancing the European Union’s response to major crises, from the Covid pandemic to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as well as addressing the challenges posed by climate change. On the other hand, their integration into the Union has been a powerful driver of their own economic growth, job creation, and trade relations. Since becoming member states, real GDP in Austria, Finland, and Sweden has grown by between 58% and 85%. Employment has increased by 31% to 35%. The single market has granted them unprecedented access to the broader European economy, enabling them to compete on a global scale. Today, nearly 70% of Finland’s exports, two-thirds of Austria’s trade, and half of Sweden’s exports go to the European Union. Their membership has led to a nearly 30% increase in foreign direct investment, helping their economies become more open, resilient, and competitive. However, integration is not just about the numbers. It’s about how these figures translate into tangible benefits: quality jobs, higher wages, improved living standards, and more opportunities for future generations. In sum: membership has significantly contributed to the economic prosperity of Austria, Finland and Sweden, but it has also demonstrated the power of economic integration in promoting peace and stability in Europe. As Enrico Letta reminded us, we must continue to strengthen our single market, remove trade barriers, and deepen cooperation. History has shown that this is the right way to enhance Europe’s prosperity, cohesion, and global influence. This is why we must remain focused on the importance of further enlargement and deeper integration, particularly for Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkan countries. By integrating these candidates, the European Union will strengthen a continent of peace and prosperity, helping to stabilize regions that were once marked by conflict and division. In a world that often feels fragmented, the European Union stands as a symbol of unity, stability, and coherence, and enlargement is central to this process. In today’s global context, we must continue to deepen our integration and uphold our shared commitment to a rules-based international order. The ongoing war in Ukraine has underscored the importance of European unity and the values enshrined in the United Nations Charter. This is what makes the European Union a powerful player and a moral force on the global stage. The accession of Austria, Finland, and Sweden to the European Union has been a success. For these member states, for the European Union, and for Europe as a whole, their contributions have made our Union stronger, more resilient, and more united. As we look to the future, we must build on this success. We must continue to push for deeper integration, not only in the economic sphere but also in terms of political, social, and territorial cohesion. And we must continue to see enlargement as the best investment in peace, security, and shared prosperity. Congratulations to Austria, Finland, and Sweden on the 30th anniversary of your membership! Thank you.   Visit the website ● Council of the EU   17/11/2025 20:07 | Meetings | Main results - General Affairs Council, 17 November 2025   The Council prepared the December 2025 European Council and discussed the new MFF 2028-2034. Ministers took note of the state of play of EU-UK relations. The Commission presented its work programme for 2026, and ministers held an exchange of views. The Council held country-specific discussions on the rule of law situation in Bulgaria, Czechia, Ireland and Germany.   View meeting page ● General Secretariat of the Council   Think Tank Review - November 2025   Civil society’s role in preparing for EU enlargement, the geopolitical potential of Europe’s internal market, EU-China climate relations, managing a changing transatlantic security partnership, China’s policy towards the EU, the future of the World Trade Organization and China’s geopolitical competition with the West are some of the topics covered in this Think Tank Review.   Read full post ● Council of the EU   17/11/2025 16:41 | Meetings | Agenda highlights - Foreign Affairs Council, 20 November 2025   The Foreign Affairs Council will exchange views on the Russian aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, Sudan and the Sahel.   View meeting page ● Council of the EU   17/11/2025 15:57 | Media advisory | Press briefing ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council and technical briefing ahead of the 4th EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum   The briefings ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council of 20 November and of the 4th EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum of 20-21 November will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, 18 November 2025: at 09.00 - 4th EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum (technical briefing) at 10.30 - Foreign Affairs Council These press briefings will be 'off the record' and will be given by senior EEAS officials in a hybrid format: EU accredited journalists will be able to participate and ask questions either in person at the Europa building press room or remotely. To attend the event remotely, please use the link below to register and have the possibility to ask questions. Those who already registered for previous press events of the Foreign Affairs Council do not need to do it again. Deadline for registration: Tuesday, 18 November 2025, 08.00 Further instructions will be sent to all registered participants shortly after the deadline.   Registration page Media accreditation for journalists   Visit the website 17/11/2025 14:09 | Meetings | Agenda highlights - EU-Tajikistan Cooperation Council, 19 November 2025   The 11th Cooperation Council between the European Union and Tajikistan will discuss the progress made towards signing Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), political issues like human rights, economic and trade matters, and regional security cooperation. The meeting will be chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Muhriddin. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, will be leading the EU delegation on behalf of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.   View meeting page ● Council of the EU   17/11/2025 13:26 | Press release | Council greenlights new EU rules for the suspension of visa-free travel for third countries   Today the Council gave its final go ahead for an update of the EU’s mechanism to suspend visa-free travel for citizens of third countries who do not require a visa when travelling to the Schengen area. The amended rules will allow the EU to react quicker and more vigorously to situations where visa-free travel is being abused or works against its interests. Main elements of the updated visa suspension mechanism There will be new grounds for triggering the suspension mechanism. When the new amendments enter into force, the EU will be able to revoke a country’s visa-free status if this third country lacks alignment with EU’s visa policy. Furthermore, when a country runs an investor citizenship scheme whereby citizenship is granted to people who have no genuine link to the third country concerned the EU can stop the visa exemption of this country. The same will be the case when the EU’s relations with a country deteriorate, for instance in the event of human rights violations. The regulation also makes it easier to trigger the suspension mechanism. For instance a threshold of 30% – instead of the previous threshold of 50% – quantifies substantial increases of cases of refused entry and overstay, asylum applications and serious criminal offences. The duration of the initial suspension of the visa exemption will increase to 12 months (from 9 months currently). This initial period can be extended by a further 24 months (instead of 18 months now). This longer temporary suspension phase will allow the EU to engage with the third country in question to remedy the circumstances that led to the suspension (before the visa-free regime can be permanently revoked). The new mechanism also foresees a targeted approach to ending the visa exemption. Whereas currently all citizens of a country are affected by the suspension of the visa-free regime when the initial period is being extended, under the new rules the additional 24-month suspension phase would not automatically affect the entire population. Instead, the EU could decide to (continue) targeting  government officials and diplomats. Next steps The regulation will enter into force on the twentieth day after its publication in the EU’s Official Journal. It will be directly binding and applicable in EU member states. Background The visa suspension mechanism, in place since 2013, is a safeguard against the abuse of visa-free travel. It allows the EU to temporarily suspend the visa exemption under certain conditions. It has only been applied once (in 2024). Borders and visa (background information) Regulation as regards the revision of the suspension mechanism, 05 November 2025 Visa policy: Council and European Parliament secure a deal on rules about the suspension of visa-free travel for third countries (press release, 17 June 2024)   Visit the website 17/11/2025 14:09 | Meetings | Agenda highlights - EU-Tajikistan Cooperation Council, 19 November 2025   The 11th Cooperation Council between the European Union and Tajikistan will discuss the progress made towards signing Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), political issues like human rights, economic and trade matters, and regional security cooperation. The meeting will be chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Muhriddin. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, will be leading the EU delegation on behalf of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.   View meeting page 17/11/2025 14:09 | Meetings | Agenda highlights - EU-Tajikistan Cooperation Council, 19 November 2025   The 11th Cooperation Council between the European Union and Tajikistan will discuss the progress made towards signing Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), political issues like human rights, economic and trade matters, and regional security cooperation. The meeting will be chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Muhriddin. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, will be leading the EU delegation on behalf of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.   View meeting page ● Council of the EU   17/11/2025 19:46 | Meetings | Main results - Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 17 November 2025   Ministers had a thematic discussion on the CAP post-2027, focusing on food security and targeting of support as well as crisis preparedness and reserves. There also discussed trade-related agricultural issues, including closer relations between the EU and Ukraine. On fisheries, ministers exchanged views on the Commission’s proposals for fishing opportunities in the Atlantic and the North Sea, and in the Mediterranean and Black Seas and highlighted their countries’ priorities.   View meeting