| Author (Corporate) | European Council |
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| Publisher | General Secretariat of the Council |
| Publication Date | May 2021 |
| Content Type | News, Overview, Policy-making |
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Summary: EU National leaders were summoned for a special European Council summit on 24-25 May 2021 to discuss a number of matters concerning foreign affairs, climate change and the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. Further information: The European Council condemned the forced landing of a flight in Minsk and the detention by Belarusian authorities of journalist Raman Pratasevich and Sofia Sapega. A set of conclusions were adopted comprising measures to apply pressure on the country's regime. Leaders also held a strategic debate on Russia and condemned the country's activities against the European Union (EU), its Member States and others. They reaffirmed the commitment to five principles governing EU policy concerning Russia. National leaders welcomed the entry into force of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the integrity of the EU's single market, the Customs Union and the EU's decision-making autonomy. They urged the European Commission to ensure full implementation of the agreements. The ceasefire aimed at bringing an end to the violence between Israel and Palestine was welcomed during the meeting. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution. On Mali, leaders condemned the kidnapping of President of the Transition and the Prime Minister and called for their immediate release. EU leaders acknowledged the acceleration in the pace of vaccination against COVID-19 and discussed the general epidemiological situation in the European Union. They agreed with a gradual reopening of societies with the need of vigilance regarding the emergence and spread of variants. They also highlighted the importance of stepping vaccination production and security adequate supply across the EU. Leaders welcomed the agreement reached on the proposed EU Digital COVID Certificate and reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive global response to COVID-19. On climate change, national leaders reaffirmed the conclusions from December 2020 and invited the European Commission to table related legislative initiatives in preparation. They welcomed the agreement on the proposed European Climate Law and the renewed commitment of the United States of America (USA) to the Paris Agreement. The outcome of this meeting was discussed at the European Parliament on 9 June 2021. |
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| Source Link | Link to Main Source https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/european-council/2021/05/24-25/ |
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| Subject Categories | Politics and International Relations |
| Subject Tags | European Council |
| Keywords | European Council Summits |
| International Organisations | European Union [EU] |
