European Council Appoints Boris Vujčić as ECB Vice-President

The European Council has appointed Boris Vujčić as the Vice-President of the European Central Bank for an eight-year term, effective June 1, 2026. This appointment follows consultations with the European Parliament and the ECB's Governing Council.

European Council Conclusions on Middle East Security and Iran

The European Council has issued conclusions on Middle East security and Iran, condemning Iran's military strikes and calling for de-escalation. The EU will continue to protect its security interests and citizens in the region, and Member States are urged to reinforce maritime operations and air defence capabilities.

EU Council President Costa Welcomes UN Secretary-General Guterres, Stresses Multilateralism

European Council President António Costa met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to emphasize the importance of multilateralism and the rules-based international order. Costa reaffirmed the European Union's strong support for the UN's work, particularly in challenging global times.

European Council Discusses Ukraine Developments with President Zelenskyy

The European Council met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss developments in Ukraine. The Council reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity, welcoming progress on reforms and inviting the Council to open accession clusters without delay. They also reiterated support for a just and lasting peace based on UN principles.

EU Statement on Ukraine Sanctions Alignment

The EU High Representative issued a statement on behalf of the EU regarding the alignment of several non-EU countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/490. This decision extends restrictive measures related to the situation in Ukraine until March 6, 2027, and updates annex information. The statement welcomes the commitment of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine to align their national policies.

EU Statement on Restrictive Measures for Ukraine Annexation

The EU Council announced that several non-EU countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine) have aligned with EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/438. This decision renews restrictive measures in response to Russia's illegal annexation of Ukrainian territories until February 2027.

European Council Remarks on Competitiveness, Growth, Jobs, and Autonomy

European Council President António Costa delivered remarks on March 19, 2026, highlighting the focus on competitiveness, economic growth, job creation, and strategic autonomy. Key areas discussed include integrating energy and telecommunications into the single market, investing in innovation and skills, and addressing energy security through increased homegrown production.

Contract Award: Exams Venue Hire in Oskemen, Kazakhstan

The British Council has awarded a contract for venue hire services to "BEST" Education Centre in Oskemen, Kazakhstan, for computer-delivered exams. The contract value is £178,448 excluding VAT and runs from March 2026 to March 2028, with an option to extend.

British Embassy Abu Dhabi Electric Buggy Purchase

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has awarded a contract for the purchase of two electric buggies for the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The contract was signed on March 18, 2026, with Luxury Carts Arabia General Trading - L.L.C - O.P.C for a value of £28,005.86 excluding VAT.

Northern Ireland Housing Executive Insurance Provision Tender

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has published a tender notice for the provision of insurance cover across five lots: Material Damage, Employers' Liability, Public Liability, Motor Fleet, and Homeowners Property Owners. The notice details contract information and lists potential suppliers.