COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,EUROGROUP,update

 

Press material Monday, 12 October 2026

● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 10:12 | Press release | Programme for agile and rapid defence innovation: Council gives final green light   The Council today formally adopted the regulation establishing the programme for agile and rapid defence innovation (AGILE). This is a new €115 million instrument providing rapid, agile and targeted financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – including start-ups and scale-ups – developing emerging and disruptive defence products. The adoption follows the provisional agreement reached with the European Parliament on 15 July 2026, and the Parliament's vote in plenary on 6 October. Designed as a nimble complement to the EU's existing toolbox of defence industrial instruments, AGILE will help SMEs move from prototype to operational capability. It will focus in particular on the development and testing of innovative defence products and technologies, including the adaptation of civil technologies for defence applications, in order to bridge the gap between development and deployment. “Ukraine has shown us that innovation and cutting-edge technology can be decisive for defence preparedness and resilience. AGILE gives SMEs an additional key instrument to do what they do best, innovate, only faster and at greater scale, turning technological excellence into operational capability.” — Helen McEntee, Minister of Defence of Ireland Main elements of the agreement focus on SMEs and disruptive innovation: support for SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups working on emerging and disruptive defence products fast-track grants: a time-to-grant of only four months, with relevant products and technologies expected to reach defence forces within one to three years mission-driven challenges: member states are involved in setting the challenges, so that the products developed meet their capability needs access to testing: fast-track access to testing and experimentation facilities, addressing a key barrier for SMEs in bringing products to market connection with defence industrial primes: dedicated matchmaking between SMEs and major defence companies, to increase uptake of AGILE-supported products simplified procurement of products supported by AGILE Next steps The regulation will be signed by the presidents of the European Parliament and of the Council and published in the Official Journal of the European Union. It will enter into force 20 days after its publication. A call for proposals is expected to take place at the beginning of 2027. Regulation on establishing the Programme for agile and rapid defence innovation (AGILE) and amending Regulations (EU) 2024/795 and (EU) 2026/467 EU law tracker Programme for agile and rapid defence innovation: Council and Parliament reach political agreement (press release, 15 July 2026) European defence readiness (background information) Security and defence (background information)   Visit the website ● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 10:15 | Press release | Chemical weapons: Council renews framework for restrictive measures and individual listings   Today, the Council decided to prolong the application of the framework for restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons for five years, until 30 October 2031. This is the first time ever that a sanctions regime is renewed for such a long period. The Council also decided to prolong the validity of individual listings within that framework for one year, until 30 October 2027. The restrictive measures apply to 31 persons and 6 entities in total. Those listed are subject to an asset freeze and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to them or for their benefit is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the EU applies to the natural persons listed. The sanctions regime aims to contribute to efforts of the EU to counter the proliferation and use of chemical weapons, as well as to support the implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction (CWC). Background On 22 March 2018, the European Council confirmed that the use of chemical weapons, including the use of any toxic chemicals as weapons under any circumstances, is completely unacceptable, must be systematically and rigorously condemned and constitutes a security threat to us all. On 15 October 2018, the Council adopted the legal framework for restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons. The EU follows developments in this domain closely and can decide to renew sanctions and amend the list of targeted persons and entities at any time. On 3 July 2026, the Council decided to additionally impose restrictive measures on six Russian individuals involved in the development of chemical weapons, notably epibatidine. Council Decision (CFSP) 2018/1544 of 15 October 2018 concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons (consolidated text dated 3 July 2026) Chemical weapons: EU sanctions six individuals involved in Navalny’s poisoning and death (press release 3 July 2026) How the EU adopts and reviews sanctions (background information) Elimination of chemical weapons (background information)   Visit the website ● European Council   12/10/2026 10:56 | Media advisory | Press briefing - European Council meeting of 15-16 October 2026   The press briefing ahead of the European Council meeting of 15-16 October 2026 will take place on Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 14:30 in the Justus Lipsius building press room. This briefing will be "off the record". The press briefing will take place in a hybrid format: EU accredited journalists or journalists accredited for the summit will be able to participate and ask questions either in person at the Justus Lipsius 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: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 13:30 Further instructions will be sent to all registered participants shortly after the deadline. Registration page Media accreditation   Visit the website ● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 12:30 | Press release | Ukraine’s territorial integrity: Council lists 77 individuals over the illegal Russian State Duma 'elections' in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine   Today, the Council has decided to adopt restrictive measures against 77 individuals who were involved in the illegal so-called 'elections' for the Russian State Duma, held in September 2026 in the territories of Ukraine that Russia has temporarily and illegally occupied. The European Union has unequivocally condemned the organisation of these so-called 'elections' in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, which breaches Ukrainian and international law, including the UN Charter, and undermines Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The listings agreed today include 74 candidates who stood for election for various parties in the so-called 'Donetsk People’s Republic', the so-called 'Luhansk People’s Republic', the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, as well as the so-called 'Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol'. By running in the Russian State Duma 'elections' these individuals have actively contributed to efforts to legitimise Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and to sustaining Russia’s illegal occupation of territories of Ukraine. For the same reasons, the Council has imposed restrictive measures on three members of the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation for organising the sham elections. Those listed today are subject to a travel ban that prohibits them from entering or transiting through EU territories, and to an asset freeze. Additionally, EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds, financial assets or economic resources available to them. In September, the Council had adopted restrictive measures against ten individuals for supporting the repression of democratic opposition and seriously undermining democracy and the rule of law in Russia. The relevant legal acts have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Background In its conclusions of 18 and 19 June 2026, the European Council reaffirmed its continued firm and unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. The European Council stated that the Union will continue to provide, in coordination with like-minded partners and allies, comprehensive political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people. The European Council also expressed the Union’s readiness to step up pressure on Russia, including by adopting further restrictive measures. On 21 September, in the statement by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on behalf of the EU on Russian State Duma elections held on 18-20 September 2026 and their non-applicability on Ukrainian territory, the EU unequivocally condemned the illegal organisation of so-called “elections” by the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, namely the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol, as well as in parts of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. The Union reiterated that these so-called “elections” represent yet another blatant violation by Russia of international law, including the UN Charter, and of Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. It urged Russia to respect Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders and sovereignty. The European Union also reiterated that it does not and will never recognise either the holding of these so-called “elections” in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine or their results. Council decision (CFSP) 2026/2291 of 12 October 2026 amending decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine (including a list of the sanctioned individuals) European Council conclusions, 18 June 2026 Human rights violations in Russia: Council lists ten individuals over the barring of Yabloko from the State Duma elections (press release, 28 September 2026) Russia/Ukraine: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on Russian State Duma elections held on 18-20 September 2026 and their non-applicability on Ukrainian territory, 21 September 2026 EU sanctions against Russia (background information)   Visit the website ● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 12:36 | Press release | Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine: EU agrees largest-ever package of listings targeting almost 1600 individuals and entities in Russia’s military-industrial complex   In response to Russia’s continued and escalating aggression against Ukraine, and in particular its recent brutal military campaign deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure and causing severe suffering to the civilian population, today the Council adopted additional restrictive measures against 1569 individuals and entities in Russia’s military and industrial complex. The agreed listings include 826 Russian companies and 743 individuals serving as CEOs of these companies. This is the single largest set of listings ever agreed by the EU and brings the total number of listings under the sanctions regime supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity to close to 4600. “Today the EU adopted the largest round of sanctions listings since 2022. Close to 1600 listings target Russia’s military-industrial complex. Over half address the production chain for the ballistic missiles Russia uses to kill Ukrainian civilians every day. Bombing Kyiv’s bridges, ships transporting grain, and the National Academy of Sciences are not the actions of a country seeking peace. This is not the time to ease pressure on Moscow but to increase it.” —  Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and chair of the Foreign Affairs Council Today’s package specifically targets mid-level suppliers that represent the “core” of the Russian military industry, generating an annual turnover of at least €20 billion and employing more than 250 000 people. The listed companies are suppliers of key components to some of Russia’s most advanced weapons systems including missiles, UAVs and aircrafts. Such key components include: electronics, including semiconductors, microcircuits and computers; communication equipment including radars, antennas and transceivers; aviation, satellite and missile systems; explosives and ammunition and optics and navigation systems. Today’s listings were adopted under the EU's restrictive measures framework targeting actions undermining or threatening Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence. Those listed under this sanctions’ regime are subject to an asset freeze and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to them or for their benefit is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the EU applies to the natural persons listed. The relevant legal acts have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Background In its conclusions of 18 and 19 June 2026, the European Council reaffirmed its continued firm and unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. The European Council stated that the EU will continue to provide, in coordination with like-minded partners and allies, comprehensive political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people. The European Council strongly condemned the recent serious escalation by Russia, including large-scale missile and drone attacks against civilians in Ukraine. Today’s decision follows the European Council’s call of 18 and 19 June 2026 to step up pressure on Russia, including through the adoption of further sanctions, in response to Russia’s continued and escalating aggression against Ukraine, and in particular its recent brutal military campaign deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure, which has caused severe suffering to the civilian population and which aims to undermine Ukraine’s resilience. Council decision (CFSP) 2026/2279 of 12 October 2026 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine (including a list of the sanctioned individuals and entities) Council implementing regulation (EU) 2026/2281 of 12 October 2026 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine (including a list of the sanctioned individuals and entities) European Council conclusions, 18 June 2026 EU sanctions against Russia (background information)   Visit the website ● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 12:46 | Press release | Lebanon: EU establishes new CSDP support mission to strengthen defence and security institutions   The Council today adopted a decision establishing a European Union Support Mission in Lebanon (EUSM Lebanon) under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), reaffirming the EU's commitment to supporting Lebanon's stability, sovereignty and state institutions. The mission will have an initial mandate of three years. The mission will contribute to peace and security in Lebanon, support the strengthening of state institutions, and promote lasting stability in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. In this context, the Mission will work to strengthen the capacities of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and the Internal Security Forces (ISF), as well as to support maritime security governance. “Today EU Foreign Affairs Ministers agreed to launch a new EU Support Mission in Lebanon. It will advise and assist the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces to strengthen territorial control, border security, and internal security. Europe is invested in Lebanon's future. With this new mission —a major update of our security ties— we continue to support the country’s institutions in restoring full sovereignty and building lasting stability for the Lebanese people.” — Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy EUSM Lebanon will have a military pillar and a civilian pillar, operating under a unified political mandate while carrying out complementary tasks in their respective areas of competence. The military pillar will provide advisory support and training to strengthen the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces, for border security and maritime security, including in land border surveillance and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, counter-smuggling and operational coordination. The civilian pillar will support the Internal Security Forces through advisory support and specialised training aimed at strengthening operational capabilities and developing sustainable training structures for the ISF, including in areas such as cybercrime and anti-smuggling. It will also provide support to the strengthening of port security governance, including at the Port of Beirut. The mission will also facilitate and complement EU assistance provided through the European Peace Facility and will coordinate closely with EU institutions, member states, the UN and other international partners supporting Lebanon's security sector. Next step Following today's decision, operational planning will continue with a view to the future deployment of the mission. The Council will adopt a separate decision launching EUSM Lebanon once operational planning has been completed. Background In its conclusions of 19 June 2026, the European Council reaffirmed the EU's support for Lebanon's sovereignty, territorial integrity and state institutions, including the Lebanese Armed Forces, and indicated that the EU would continue supporting the LAF through a possible CSDP mission and reinforced assistance under the European Peace Facility. Against this background, and as part of the EU's broader engagement to promote lasting stability and support peace and security in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, the establishment of EUSM Lebanon follows the EU's gradual development of a CSDP response to the security situation in Lebanon, in light of the critical situation in the region. On 24 July 2026, the Council approved a Crisis Management Concept for a possible CSDP mission in Lebanon. Following an invitation from the Lebanese authorities, the Council has now established EUSM Lebanon as a new Common Security and Defence Policy mission. European Council conclusions (18-19 June 2026) EU relations with Lebanon (background information) Civilian and military missions and operations (background information)   Visit the website ● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 13:22 | Press release | DPRK: Council adds three individuals and four entities to sanctions lists over nuclear, missile programmes and Russia ties   The Council today adopted additional restrictive measures against three individuals and four entities under its autonomous sanctions list on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). They are responsible for supporting, promoting or facilitating activities that contribute to the DPRK’s programmes related to nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles or other weapons of mass destruction, as well as for violating and evading United Nations sanctions. The new listings target activities linked to the growing military and economic cooperation between the DPRK and Russia, including the deployment of DPRK workers in Russia, commercial and industrial cooperation and the ‘arms-for-oil’ trade, all in violation of prohibitions imposed by the United Nations Security Council that Russia approved as a permanent member of the Security Council. Among those listed is Ri Song Jin, a researcher at the DPRK National Aerospace Technology Administration and an official at the DPRK Missile General Bureau who has been deployed to Russia as a technician supporting Russia’s use of DPRK missiles in the context of growing military cooperation between the DPRK and Russia. He is therefore responsible for supporting and promoting the DPRK’s nuclear-related and ballistic-missile-related programmes. The Council has also listed Russian real estate development company Samolet Group and its CEO, Anna Nikolaevna Akinshina, for her responsibility for a company that has employed DPRK workers in construction projects in Vladivostok, in violation of UN sanctions. Vladimir Aleksandrovich Sokolov, founder and president of Russian holding company Black Horse, is also listed for promoting and facilitating commercial and industrial cooperation projects involving the DPRK, including a Russia–DPRK industrial investment project in Primorsky Krai. The remaining two entities added under this sanctions regime are Paekyangsan Shipping Co Ltd, which operates the DPRK-flagged vessel Paek Yang San 1 involved in shipments of refined petroleum products from Russia to the DPRK in violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2397, and Black Horse’s subsidiary Golden Autumn Agroholding. Those targeted will be subject to an asset freeze and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to or for the benefit of those listed is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the European Union will apply to the listed individuals. Today’s decision brings the total number of persons listed autonomously by the EU to 80 individuals and 25 entities. This comes in addition to all relevant UN Security Council resolutions on sanctions linked to DPRK’s illegal programmes, which the EU has also transposed into EU law. The Council is gravely concerned by the DPRK’s continued nuclear-related and ballistic missile-related activities, carried out in violation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and by the further deepening of Russia–DPRK cooperation. This includes the deployment of DPRK troops, employment of DPRK workers in Russia, the establishment of commercial joint ventures and the ‘arms-for-oil’ trade, which pose a serious threat to international peace and security and violate UN sanctions. The EU remains firmly committed to the full implementation of UN sanctions against the DPRK and calls on the DPRK to comply with its obligations under relevant UN Security Council resolutions and to abandon its nuclear weapons, other weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programmes in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner. The relevant legal acts have been published in the Official Journal of the EU. Background The EU's restrictive measures against the DPRK implement the UN sanctions regime established in response to the DPRK's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. The Council has adopted additional, autonomous restrictive measures against the DPRK, complementing the UN sanctions, on the grounds that the DPRK’s actions constitute a grave threat to international peace and security in the region and beyond. The Council has urged the DPRK to engage in meaningful discussions with all relevant parties to build a basis for sustainable peace and security and to take steps aimed at pursuing the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. UN Security Council Resolution 2375 (2017) prohibits, among other things, the establishment and operation of joint ventures or cooperative entities with DPRK entities or individuals. Resolution 2397 (2017) requires the repatriation of DPRK workers abroad, subject to applicable national and international law, and strengthens restrictions on the supply of crude oil and refined petroleum products to the DPRK. The European Council, in its conclusions of 18 June 2026, strongly condemned the deployment of DPRK military forces in Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and the continued military support provided to Russia by the DPRK, Iran and Belarus. Council Decision amending Decision (CFSP) 2016/849 concerning restrictive measures against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Council Implementing Regulation implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1509 concerning restrictive measures against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Consolidated text: Council Decision (CFSP) 2016/849 of 27 May 2016 concerning restrictive measures against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and repealing Decision 2013/183/CFSP (consolidated text, 17 December 2025) EU sanctions against North Korea (background information) Why the EU adopts sanctions (background information) European Council conclusions (18-19 June 2026)   Visit the website ● European Council

12/10/2026 15:34 | Speech | Speech by President António Costa at the opening session of the 24th edition of the European Week of Regions and Cities   It’s always a pleasure to be with you, here in this year’s European Week of Regions and Cities. Europe was built on a rich network of cities and regions that shaped our nations and, over time, our independent states, making the European Union a unique project, enriched by its diversity. In our Union, every level of governance has a vital role to play. As President of the European Council, I have made it my objective to strengthen our unity, working closely with all European institutions, partners and stakeholders. Cities and regions are essential to territorial and social cohesion. They are closest to citizens and businesses, and often the first to respond to their needs. They are also on the front line of our major challenges: protecting our prosperity and social model, responding to demographic change, advancing the climate and energy transition, and strengthening our resilience and strategic autonomy. These challenges require common priorities and determined action at every level. Let me highlight three areas where this matters most. First: affordability. Europe must be a place where people can afford their homes, energy and mobility, where businesses can grow, and where everyone can plan their future with greater predictability. Energy prices are, of course, central to this equation. The current crisis in the Middle East and its impact on global energy supplies reinforce the need for decarbonisation and greater energy independence, based on our homegrown renewable and nuclear energy sources. We can already see the benefits in member states and regions with a higher share of renewables, which enjoy significantly lower electricity prices than those heavily dependent on fossil fuels. Accelerating the energy transition is therefore our best long-term strategy to ensure our autonomy and lower prices. In the short term, however, targeted and temporary measures are needed to protect households and businesses from price spikes. The European Commission has already made some proposals to provide immediate relief while preserving incentives to save energy and accelerate the clean transition. But the energy transition is not just about generating renewable energy – it is also about transforming mobility and improving energy efficiency. We must accelerate public transport, transport electrification, with more residential chargers, charging-equipped parking spaces and electric buses. This will lower commuting costs and reduce urban pollution. Energy efficiency is equally important. Better insulation, heat pumps and smart meters reduce consumption and protect households from price volatility. The annual energy cost difference between a poorly insulated and a well-insulated home can reach €5 000. Multiplied across millions of households, the potential savings are enormous. We must also expand and modernise electricity grids to connect renewables and meet growing demand. This requires investment, resilient infrastructure and faster permitting. Cities and regions are essential to delivering these changes. But affordability also means housing. From Copenhagen to Lisbon, from Dublin to Athens, access to affordable housing has become one of our citizens’ most urgent concerns. This is a crisis affecting the homeless, low-income households, but also the middle class and, especially, younger generations. The lack of affordable housing also fuels disillusionment with democratic institutions. Housing is primarily a responsibility of national, regional and local authorities. But the European Union can complement their efforts - can help their efforts - and make a concrete difference. That is why I placed the housing crisis on the European Council’s agenda for the first time last October. That is why the Commission has since presented an Affordable Housing plan and an Affordable Housing Act. And that is why I have been in close contact with the coalition of Mayors for Housing, exploring how the European Union can support their efforts through: better regulation increasing innovation and energy efficiency in the construction industry ensuring that affordable housing remains a priority in the post-2027 MFF and Cohesion Policy We need a multi-level response to this multi-level crisis. To strengthen social cohesion, accommodate demographic pressures, reinforce our democratic systems and boost our economies. Second: competitiveness. In March, European leaders adopted an ambitious “One Europe, One Market” agenda, with clear priorities and timelines. Let me focus on one dimension critical for cities and regions: simplification. We must make it easier for people and businesses to operate across Europe, enabling companies, especially SMEs, to scale up, realise their full potential and create quality jobs. We must continue simplifying our rules – the Brussels effect must become synonymous with reducing red tape. Member states must also address gold-plating and domestic barriers. One of the most effective ways to simplify is through better European rules – fewer directives and more regulations – to ensure greater consistency and reduce fragmentation across the Single Market. Finally, we must simplify and accelerate planning and permitting procedures. Lengthy approvals and excessive administrative requirements delay investment, increase costs and hold back projects. We need faster, simpler and more predictable procedures to help businesses invest, innovate and grow. Finally, my third remark: the next Multiannual Financial Framework. Negotiations on the next MFF are entering a decisive stage. The European Union needs a long-term budget that responds to the challenges of this historic moment. This is not just about numbers. It is a political choice about our future and the Europe we want to build together. The next long-term budget must put competitiveness, industrial transformation, defence, security and strategic resilience at its heart. At the same time, it must continue to support cohesion and agricultural policies, pillars of regional development and shared prosperity. Both dimensions are important for our Union and our Single Market, which benefit us all. Regional and local authorities must be closely involved in preparing, implementing and evaluating the new plans under the next MFF. Because the European budget is an investment framework that must ultimately deliver tangible results for our communities, cities and regions. We must respect the principle of multilevel governance. The recent mid-term review led by Vice-President Fitto has shown that active engagement with stakeholders at all levels delivers results. I will continue to encourage everyone involved to negotiate with an open mind and a spirit of collective responsibility, with the aim of reaching an agreement by the end of the year. That is crucial to ensure that the next budget is operational from the start of 2028. Any delay would impact the lives of our farmers, businesses, students, researchers and innovators – and of course, our cities and regions. In these turbulent geopolitical times, Europe must be a source of predictability and stability. It must have the means to act, the capacity to deliver and the unity to face the challenges ahead.  That is what citizens expect from the European Union. A strong Europe is built from the ground up: through empowered communities, strong cities and strong regions. I count on all of you to continue building it together.  Thank you very much.   Visit the website

● Council of the EU   12/10/2026 16:11 | Press release | Multilateralism: Council sets EU position ahead of climate change and biodiversity summits   Today, the Council approved two sets of conclusions setting out the EU’s main negotiating positions ahead of the United Nations climate change (COP31) and biodiversity (COP17) summits. The EU will call for rapid, science-based action rooted in multilateralism to limit global warming and halt biodiversity loss. Deeply alarmed by the gravity of the interconnected global crises, the EU will reaffirm the urgent need for accelerated implementation of the Paris Agreement and of the global biodiversity framework. The EU’s focus in both COPs is on translating commitments into concrete actions and promoting cooperation within the United Nations framework. “The moment to act is now. COP31 must be the turning point where commitments become tangible reality. Because climate change spares no country, true climate resilience requires global cooperation. The EU stands ready to lead on crucial issues such as the transition from fossil fuels and accelerating the clean energy transition through ambitious, coordinated and strategic action.” — Darragh O’Brien, Ireland’s Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment “In an era where both multilateralism and nature protection are tested, the EU remains strongly committed to achieving positive outcomes for biodiversity at COP17. There can be no lowering of the ambition that was agreed under the global biodiversity framework. We will call for the acceleration of global action and a renewed focus to mainstream efforts across the economy and society.” — Ireland’s Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with special responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Climate change: key priorities for COP31 While acknowledging that the Paris Agreement goal of 1,5ºC is likely to be exceeded, EU ministers called for urgent and ambitious climate action to avoid every additional fraction of a degree of warming and to return to the 1,5ºC trajectory in line with the best available science. Noting the accelerating impacts of climate change with concern, they stressed that the “overshoot‑peak‑decline” pathway is the best remaining option to keep global warming below 1.5°C by the end of the century. COP31 must mark a step-change in the delivery of the Paris Agreement. At COP31, the EU will call for the effective implementation of nationally determined contributions (NDCs) – the climate action plans under the Paris Agreement – and for urgent submission of missing NDCs. The need to collectively deliver on the outcomes of the first global stocktake (GST-1) is also emphasised in the EU’s negotiating position, including the transition away from fossil fuels and an accelerated clean energy transition, with clean electrification being an important component. Against this backdrop, COP31 should provide an adequate space in the negotiations to discuss mitigation efforts and set the direction for the second global stocktake (GST-2). Climate resilience is considered a prerequisite for safe, sustainable and prosperous societies and economies. Mitigation and adaptation are therefore complementary and essential to tackling climate change. Upholding the principle of multilateralism, ministers acknowledged the central role of the United Nations climate change framework and processes, while stressing the importance of all EU member states participating at COP31 and reaffirming the principle of solidarity amongst them. Biodiversity: key priorities for COP17 In 2022, COP15 agreed on the new global biodiversity framework which sets targets for halting biodiversity loss, including a pledge to protect at least 30% of areas on land and at sea by 2030. During the COP17 negotiations, the EU will stress the need for accelerated action to meet these targets, through mainstreaming biodiversity within and across all policies and sectors, on the basis of solid scientific evidence. The EU will also call for increased public and private funding, particularly by exploring innovative approaches, such as  high-integrity nature credits. Background Every year, the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations framework convention on climate change meet to determine climate ambitions and responsibilities. This year’s COP31 will take place in Antalya (Türkiye), from 9 to 20 November 2026. On 9 October 2026, the Council approved conclusions on climate finance which complement the EU’s general position ahead of the COP31 climate conference. The UN Convention on biological diversity takes place every two years. This year’s Conference of Parties (COP17) will be held in Yerevan (Armenia), from 19 to 30 October 2026. The EU and its member states are parties to both. The rotating presidency of the Council, together with the European Commission, represent the EU at these international conferences. Council conclusions on climate finance Global climate action (background information) Climate change: what the EU is doing (background information) Biodiversity (background information) Limiting overshoot - Navigating exceedance of 1.5°C and pathways towards return (UNEP report) UN biodiversity convention: EU reaffirms global pledge to protect a third of the planet by 2030 (press release, 14 October 2024)   Visit the website