Forward look: 20 March – 2 April 2023
Overview of the main topics and events at the Council of EU and European Council for the coming fortnight.
Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 20 March 2023
Agriculture and fisheries ministers will discuss the recent package of measures put forward by the European Commission to improve the sustainability and resilience of the EU’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. They will also exchange views on the current market situation for agrifood products and recent trade-related developments. Other items on the agenda include agricultural and forestry aspects of the nature restoration act, a report from the European Pigmeat Reflection Group, and the Commission’s communication on A New Deal for Pollinators.
Foreign Affairs Council, 20 March 2023
The Foreign Affairs Council with foreign affairs ministers will exchange views on the Russian aggression against Ukraine, Tunisia and current affairs, and the Foreign Affairs Council with foreign affairs and defence ministers will discuss the implementation of the Strategic Compass and EU support to Ukraine.
General Affairs Council, 21 March 2023
Ministers will focus on preparations for the upcoming European Council, EU-UK relations, the European Semester and the annual rule of law dialogue.
European Council, 23-24 March 2023
EU leaders will meet in Brussels to discuss the following topics: Ukraine, competitiveness – single market – economy, energy and, in light of events, leaders may address other specific foreign policy issues.
Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy), 28 March 2023
Ministers will seek a general approach on the gas and hydrogen package, which includes a proposal for a directive and a proposal for a regulation on common internal market rules for renewable and natural gases and hydrogen.
Ministers will hold a first policy debate on a proposal to revise the EU electricity market design.
Under other items ministers will hear from the Commission on winter preparedness and from Denmark on the nature restoration regulation.
