EU Council Sanctions Press Releases

EU Council Press Briefings for Transport, Energy, and Environment Councils

The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for press briefings preceding the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy) on March 16 and the Environment Council on March 17, 2026. Journalists are invited to register for a hybrid format briefing by March 13, 2026.

Eurogroup President Visits Netherlands for Economic Talks

Eurogroup President Kyriakos Pierrakakis visited the Netherlands on March 11, 2026, to discuss macroeconomic conditions and Eurogroup priorities with national authorities, including digital finance and the Savings and Investments Union. Meetings were held with the Dutch Minister of Finance and the President of the Dutch Central Bank.

Eurogroup President Reports on Euro Area Economy to Euro Summit

The President of the Eurogroup has submitted a report to the President of the Euro Summit detailing the state of the euro area economy and upcoming work priorities. The report covers topics such as international cooperation, the strengthening of the euro's international role, and the acceleration of the savings and investments union.

EU Council President Costa and Azerbaijan President Aliyev Meet

European Council President António Costa met with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev to discuss deepening political dialogue and practical cooperation. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a new comprehensive bilateral agreement and highlighted Azerbaijan's role in energy security and regional connectivity.

EU Council President Remarks on Azerbaijan Meeting

European Council President António Costa made press remarks following a meeting with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev on March 11, 2026. The remarks highlighted strengthened cooperation in security, energy, digital, and transport, and expressed EU solidarity with Azerbaijan amidst regional geopolitical challenges.

Press Briefing for Foreign Affairs Council

The Council of the EU announced a press briefing for the Foreign Affairs Council meeting on March 16, 2026. The briefing will be held on March 13, 2026, and is 'off the record'. Journalists must register by March 13, 2026, at 14:00.

EU Council Agrees Negotiating Position on Fisheries and Aquaculture Statistics Framework

The Council of the EU has agreed on a negotiating position for a new regulation on fisheries and aquaculture statistics. This framework aims to modernise data collection, replace five existing regulations, and improve the use of digital technologies. Negotiations with the European Parliament are expected to begin later in 2026.

EU Ambassadors Conference Speech by President António Costa

President António Costa delivered a speech at the EU Ambassadors Conference on March 10, 2026, emphasizing the importance of a unified EU foreign policy in a multipolar world. He highlighted the need to defend the rules-based international order and address global challenges, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

EU Leaders Discuss Iran War, Regional Attacks, and Energy Security

EU leaders discussed the war in Iran, regional attacks, and energy security with Middle Eastern countries. The statement condemned attacks, expressed solidarity, and announced humanitarian aid for Lebanon, while reaffirming commitment to regional stability and maritime operations.

Eurogroup Statement on Belgian Draft Budgetary Plan for 2026

The Eurogroup has welcomed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026, noting its compliance with the Stability and Growth Pact. The group will continue to monitor economic and fiscal developments in Belgium and across the EU.