Greece to Lead EU Council Presidency in 2027, Outlines Priorities

From 1 July to 31 December 2027 Greece will assume the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Deputy Foreign Minister Tasos Khatzivasileiou presented the Greek agenda to the European Affairs Committee, emphasising the Presidency as a chance for Greece to reaffirm its European orientation and to influence legislation affecting the bloc’s 440 million citizens.

Six thematic pillars were identified: (1) security and defence, including a unified defence market and investment in the defence industry; (2) competitiveness, focusing on clean technologies, digital connectivity and support for SMEs, particularly tourism; (3) resilience, covering social cohesion, education, AI, housing and demographic challenges; (4) enlargement, with attention to the Western Balkans and potential accession talks; (5) maritime and migration issues; and (6) energy security and climate policies. The Presidency will organise ministerial meetings, steer legislative work and highlight Greek‑specific interests such as shipping and migration, while also contributing to broader EU stability and policy continuity.