December European Council to focus on the climate and energy package and financial issues

Government Communications Unit
Press release 384/2008
4.12.2008

On Thursday, 4 December, the Government announced Finland's representation at the Brussels European Council that will take place on 11 and 12 December. Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen, assisted by Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb and Minister of Migration and European Affairs Astrid Thors, will represent Finland at the European Council. The President of the Republic, Tarja Halonen, will attend the meeting when it deals with matters within her remit.

The main theme of the European Council is the climate and energy package. The meeting will aim to reach agreement on key issues that are currently unresolved. In addition, the European Council is to decide on further steps to be taken with regard to the Lisbon Treaty. According to the conclusions of the October European Council, a consensus should be reached in December on the continuation of the Treaty process. The Irish Government is expected to present elements of a solution to the matter on the basis of broad-based discussions.

The Heads of State or Government will also discuss the world economic situation, the financial crisis and its economic impacts. The crisis response package proposal by the European Commission’s will be on the agenda. The Commission’s programme of action lays down the principles for Member States for the utilisation of possible public stimulus funds and for the implementation of structural reforms.

Other topics will include the eastern partnership and the health check relating to the common agricultural policy. In addition, the European Council is to adopt a declaration on European defence and security.

Further information: Kare Halonen, State Secretary for EU Affairs, tel. +358 9 1602 2180 and Sanna Ek, Counsellor, EU Affairs, tel. +358 9 1602 2150, Government Secretariat for EU Affairs