António Costa, Portugal’s former prime minister, will assume the presidency of the European Council on December 1. He replaces Charles Michel, who handed Costa the ceremonial bell during a brief ceremony on Friday.
Costa stressed the need for unity to tackle Europe’s challenges. “Patriotism means ensuring sovereignty and building a common Europe,” he said to officials and diplomats. He emphasized collective efforts to achieve security, stability, prosperity, and climate transition. “Unity is the lifeblood of the European Union,” Costa declared.
Costa’s tenure coincides with Ursula von der Leyen’s second term as European Commission president. His mandate lasts two-and-a-half years, with one possible extension. Costa plans to work closely with von der Leyen to strengthen mutual efforts, an EU official said.
The Council president facilitates and moderates EU summits where leaders set the bloc’s political agenda. The role focuses on coordination and representation, not executive powers.
Priorities and Vision for Europe
Costa aims to build consensus while respecting member states’ differences. He called Europe’s diversity its strength, urging leaders to harness it. Janis A. Emmanouilidis of the European Policy Center expects Costa to balance compromise with ambitious decision-making.
Key priorities include support for Ukraine, defence policy, migration, competitiveness, and EU budget reforms. Costa also emphasized just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on international law. Enlargement remains a focus, with Costa advocating progress without “artificial timelines or undue obstacles.”
Costa hopes to streamline EU summits, aiming for one-day meetings with pre-drafted conclusions. He also plans “informal retreats” outside Brussels to encourage open discussions on crucial issues. The first retreat, focusing on defence, will occur on February 3, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte attending.
As the first person of colour in a top EU role, Costa represents a historic moment for the bloc’s leadership.