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Brandenburger Tor — Illumination of the Brandenburg Gate © Oellermann/Bundesregierung

Message from German Chancellor Merkel and Portuguese Prime Minister Costa to mark the handover of the EU Council Presidency Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas passes on the baton via video, to his Portuguese counterpart — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas "passes on" the baton via video, to his Portuguese counterpart - and then sends the baton on its way to Lisbon © Thomas Koehler/photothek.de

Portugal takes over from Germany: The passing on of the EU Council Presidency baton, on video Internal link

The EU and China have concluded a Comprehensive Agreement on Investment — The EU and China have concluded a Comprehensive Agreement on Investment © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

The EU and China: Agreement in principle reached on investment Internal link

Portugal's Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva in Berlin — Portugal's Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva in Berlin: This is the fourth time Portugal holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union © Janine Schmitz/photothek.de

Interview with Portugal's Minister of Foreign Affairs Augusto Santos Silva: “Time to deliver” Internal link

View of the cape Cabo de Roca with the cliffs and the lighthouse. — Portugal has been a member of the European Economic Community since 1 January 1986 © Getty Images/iStockphoto/Olga Tarasyuk

Start of the Presidency of the Council of the EU: Impressions of Portugal Internal link

School children at the 2019 theatre festival in Almada — School children at the 2019 theatre festival in Almada © Carlos Pedrosa

Germany and Portugal – together for Europe Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas — Foreign Minister Maas: "On 1 January we say 'Hello, Goodbye' to the United Kingdom" © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Foreign Minister Maas on the EU Council Decision on the Withdrawal Agreement Internal link

The official bell of the presidency sits on a table. — On 31 December the German Presidency of the Council of the EU will end, after six months of intensive work for the European Union © Thomas Trutschel/photothek.de

Taking stock of Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the EU: “Together for Europe’s recovery” Internal link

EU member states work together to tackle the challenge of the coronavirus — EU member states work together to tackle the challenge of the coronavirus © picture alliance/AP Photo/Francisco Seco

FAQ: What is the European Union doing about the COVID-19 pandemic? Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Looking back: A review of the cultural programme of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU Internal link

Collage of the Youth video project: What is the Presidency of the Council of the European Union? — What do people think about Europe? People in all three Trio Presidency countries were asked for their views in the youth video project © Internationaler Bund (IB) e.V.

Youth video project: What is the Presidency of the Council of the European Union? Internal link

Holger Osterrieder — Holger Osterrieder, Coordinator of the EU2020 Planning and Protocol Task Force at the Federal Foreign Office © Auswärtiges Amt

Interview: A Council Presidency with both digital and physical formats - how does that work? Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas — German Foreign Minister Maas: "Very close to a solution which will finally open a new chapter in our relations with the UK" © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Foreign Minister Maas on the agreement reached between the European Union and UK negotiating teams Internal link

EU2020 season's greetings — Christmas in Europe: A time for reflection, comfort and charity © AA

What Christmas sounds like in Europe: The German EU Council Presidency sends season’s greetings in 24 languages Internal link

Three Christmas tree cookies — The three different countries observe different Christmas traditions © Westend61

Germany, Portugal and Slovenia: The Trio Partners' Christmas traditions Internal link

EU-LAC Summit — Restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic meant that many Presidency events went digital © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU: A review in pictures Internal link

Six months, hundreds of meetings and many accomplishments - reflect back on Germany's 2020 Council Presidency in figures © Thomas Trutschel/photothek.de

Facts and figures: Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU Internal link

On Monday the EMA recommended approving the BioNTech/Pfizer — On Monday the EMA recommended approving the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for use in the EU © Getty Images/Leon Neal

European Commission approves first COVID-19 vaccine Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Earth Speakr: “Culture can show things that otherwise stay hidden” Internal link

Avoided emissions through climate protection projects — To offset the emissions caused by the Council Presidency, Germany is investing in climate protection projects in Malawi, Zambia and Uganda. In total, 71,519 tonnes of CO2 equivalents (i.e. CO2 and other greenhouse gases) will be offset in this way. © DEHst

Climate-neutral German Council Presidency: How the remaining emissions will be offset Internal link

European Flags — The fund will improve the EU’s capacity to strengthen the ability of third countries to prevent and respond to crises and better protect their own populations © dpa

Council reaches a political agreement on the European Peace Facility Internal link

Goethe Key Visual EU2020 — What defines Europe and how do we want to live in Europe in the future? The projects of the Goethe-Institut in the cultural programme of the German Presidency of the Council of the EU have dealt with these questions. © Tobias Schrank

Cultural programme of the German Presidency of the Council of the EU: Conclusion of the Goethe-Institut’s European Projects Internal link

German Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz — German Federal Minister for Finance Olaf Scholz: "It will give a strong boost to our economies and enable member states to shape a greener and more digital future for Europe’s citizens and businesses" © dpa

Recovery and Resilience Facility: Council presidency and Parliament reach provisional agreement Internal link

Ludwig van Beethoven mural painting in the old city — Ludwig van Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" has been the European anthem for decades © blickwinkel

Beethoven anniversary on 17 December: Seven things you didn't know about the European Anthem Internal link

Troubleshooting and repairing a computer — Strengthening the circular economy: In the future, consumers will be able to have products repaired more easily © colourbox

European Environment Council favours EU-wide right to repair and greater product durability Internal link

Transmission lines and wind turbine — Environment Minister Svenja Schulze: "Our new EU target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030 sets an example internationally" © Geisler-Fotopress

German Environment Minister Schulze: Climate action in Europe now set in stone Internal link

Germany is working for binding EU-wide biodiversity targets and specific measures to stop biodiversity loss — Germany is working for binding EU-wide biodiversity targets and specific measures to stop biodiversity loss © Unsplash/Denise Johnson

On the way to a European Climate Law: Questions and answers about climate and environmental policy Internal link

Svenja SCHULZE, German Federal Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Reactor Safety. — During the meeting, which will be led by Germany's Federal Minister for the Environment, Svenja Schulze, ministers will discuss European climate law and the European Commission’s chemicals strategy, among other topics. © EU

Environment Council in Brussels: These topics were on the agenda Internal link

Fisherman Greetsiel Greetsiel — Federal Minister Julia Klöckner: "Our agreement on provisional quotas is a guarantee for our European fishers that they will be able to carry on fishing from 1 January" © dpa

EU fisheries ministers adopt provisional 2021 catch quotas for the North Sea and the Atlantic Internal link

Two pigs in straw — Federal Minister Klöckner: "Today’s decision is a clear commitment to greater animal welfare in Europe and a significant step forward" © connydesign /stock.adobe.com

EU Agriculture Council launches European animal welfare label Internal link

Woman holding up yoghurt pot in front of refrigerated supermarket shelf — Federal Minister Julia Klöckner: "We are actively committed to ensuring that the origin of food will be labelled in a more transparent manner" © Robert Kneschke - stockadobe.com

Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture Julia Klöckner: Greater guidance for consumers’ food choices Internal link

Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, Julia Klöckner — Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, Julia Klöckner © European Union

EU Council of Agriculture Ministers: Focus on fishing quotas and European nutrition and animal welfare labels Internal link

Constitutional Affairs Committee Member Danuta Hübner, European Parliament Vice-President Katarina Barley, Minister of State Michael Roth and Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency Věra Jourová — From left to right: Constitutional Affairs Committee Member Danuta Hübner, European Parliament Vice-President Katarina Barley, Minister of State Michael Roth and Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency Věra Jourová © European Parliament

Together for a more open, transparent Europe: EU agrees on new regulations for lobbyists in Brussels and Strasbourg Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Europe in Film: And the winner is... Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and EU High Representative Josep Borrell before the meeting of foreign ministers from the EU, Latin America and the Caribbean — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and EU High Representative Josep Borrell before the meeting of foreign ministers from the EU, Latin America and the Caribbean © photothek.net

Closer cooperation across the Atlantic: Meeting of foreign ministers from the EU, Latin America and the Caribbean Internal link

EU Commissioner — EU Commissioner Ylva Johannson joined EU home affairs ministers at their final videoconference under the German Presidency of the Council of the EU © Henning Schacht

Final meeting of EU Home Affairs Ministers under Germany’s Council Presidency: “Migration will decide Europe’s fate.” Internal link

Europol HQ — EU home affairs ministers discussed strengthening Europol's operational mandate © BELGA

Videoconference of EU Home Affairs Ministers: Migration and security on the agenda Internal link

Gas stove — Under the EU-Regulation, Member States are required to sign bilateral solidarity agreements with one another © colourbox

Internal link

Peter Altmaier, Germany's federal minister responsible for energy — Federal Minister of Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier discussing energy efficiency with his European counterparts at the videoconference © BMWI

Videoconference of EU Energy Ministers: “We need to give greater priority to energy efficiency” Internal link

Energy system integration is crucial for setting the path towards a climate neutral Europe — Energy system integration is crucial for setting the path towards a climate neutral Europe © dpa

Videoconference of EU Energy Ministers: Focus on energy system integration Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Oekoropa youth competition: Designing a carbon-neutral tour of Europe Internal link

A participating duo in the Europe talks project — A duo participating in the "Europe talks - Europa spricht" project © Maria Sturm/ZEIT ONLINE

“Europe Talks” kicks off tomorrow: Europeans engage each other in discussions Internal link

European Parliament in Strasbourg — European Parliament in Strasbourg © abaca

EU budget and Next Generation EU recovery fund: What happens now? Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel in conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron and Charles Michel, the President of the European Council — German Chancellor Angela Merkel in conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron and Charles Michel, the President of the European Council © Bundesregierung/Steffen Kugler

European Council in Brussels: Agreement reached on the budget and climate protection Internal link

European Council meeting room in the Europa building in Brussels — European Council meeting room in the Europa building in Brussels © European Union

Today's meeting of EU leaders: What does the European Council actually do? Internal link

Illustration of padlocks and digital graphics — The new centre will promote cybersecurity research around the EU © colourbox

A milestone in cybersecurity: European Cybersecurity Competence Centre to be located in Bucharest Internal link

Seehofer — Federal Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer at the Videoconference of EU Interior Ministers on 13 November 2020 © Henning Schacht

Fight against terrorism on the internet: Political agreement reached on EU Regulation Internal link

Federal Minister of Defence Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer — Federal Minister of Defence Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer answered questions on the German Presidency of the Council of the EU © picture alliance / Flashpic

Résumé and outlook: Federal Minister of Defence Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer on Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU Internal link

In 2012 the EU received the Nobel Peace Prize for advancing the causes of peace, reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe — In 2012 the EU received the Nobel Peace Prize for advancing the causes of peace, reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe © Bundesregierung

Anniversary of the 2012 Nobel Peace Prize for the EU: A prize for everyone in Europe Internal link

Train in the night — Continuous long-distance rail transport should make Europe even more climate and environmentally friendly © picture alliance / Geisler-Fotopress

TransEuropExpress 2.0: A night train through Europe Internal link

Federal Minister of Transport and Digital Infrastructure, Andreas Scheuer — Federal Minister of Transport and Digital Infrastructure, Andreas Scheuer, exchanged ideas with his counterparts about the Eurovignette and the Single European Sky initiative © dpa

Videoconference of EU Transport Ministers: Focus on the Eurovignette Internal link

German Minister of State for Europe, Michael Roth — Under German Minister of State for Europe, Michael Roth's leadership, the ministers discussed future EU-UK relations © EU

Videoconference of European Affairs Ministers: Focus on EU-UK relations Internal link

Minister of State for Europe Roth at the last virtual, informal meeting of the General Affairs Council during Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union © Federal Foreign Office

Videoconference of the European Affairs Ministers: Preparing for the final stretch of the Presidency and looking ahead Internal link

Hands with world map — The promotion and protection of human rights remain a cornerstone and priority of EU external action © European Union

EU adopts a global human rights sanctions regime Internal link

Willy Brandt falling to his knees in Warsaw — A historic scene – 7 December 1970: Federal Chancellor Willy Brandt kneeling before the memorial at the former Jewish ghetto in Warsaw, which commemorates the heroes of the ghetto uprising of April 1943 © dpa

In humility for peace and Europe Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday in Brussels © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels: Strengthening human rights and transatlantic relations Internal link

Federal Consumer Protection Minister Christine Lambrecht — Federal Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection Christine Lambrecht: "We will strengthen cooperation between Member States and EU institutions, ensuring that consumers are able to assert their rights across European borders" © Henning Schacht

Informal videoconference of the EU Ministers for Consumer Protection: Asserting consumer rights across European borders Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: Consumer protection in the European Union Internal link

Modernes Smartphone liegt auf EU-Flagge — At the Informal Videoconference, ministers will discuss about the nexus of consumer protection and the digital transformation © Zoonar.com/DesignIt

Informal Videoconference of EU Ministers for Consumer Protection: Focus on digitalisation and sustainability Internal link

Servers — The Data Governance Act was a key agenda item at the videoconference of the EU ministers for telecommunications and digital policy © picture alliance / dpa

Videoconference of EU Ministers for Telecommunications and Digital Policy: Fostering digitisation in Europe Internal link

German Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth — German Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth: "The German Council Presidency is fully committed in strengthening transparency by introducing a new Transparency Register at EU level." © Auswärtiges Amt

Mandatory Transparency Register: Compromise on draft conditionality package Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Robot Gaia on Tour: Visiting Bremen and Rotterdam Internal link

7 December marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. — 7 December marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union © UE / Xavier Lejeune

Protecting human rights: Questions and answers about the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights Internal link

Bärbel Kofler, Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Assistance at the Federal Foreign Office — Since 1 March 2016, Bärbel Kofler has been the Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Assistance at the Federal Foreign Office © photothek/Thomas Köhler

EU Charter of Fundamental Rights turns 20 : “Improving people's lives in Europe” Internal link

The Europa building in Brussels — The Europa building in Brussels, the seat of the European Council and the Council of the EU © dpa

EU budget for 2021: Council and Parliament reach common understanding Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Europe in Film: Moving, diverse, critical Internal link

Fishing cutter comes back from the catch on the Baltic Sea — Small-scale coastal fisheries and vessels in particular would receive support from the new EMFAF © dpa

Informal deal on European Maritime and Fisheries Fund: Towards stable, profitable and environmentally-friendly value chains Internal link

Ministers Giffey and Heil at the EPSCO meeting — The Videoconference of Employment and Social Policy Ministers was chaired by both German ministers responsible for those respective policy areas: Federal Ministers Franziska Giffey and Hubertus Heil © BMAS

Videoconference of Employment and Social Policy Ministers: Focus on social affairs and gender equality in European policymaking Internal link

discussions focused on the working conditions and social protection of platform workers and the Commission’s Gender Equality Strategy — Discussions focused on the working conditions and social protection of platform workers and the Commission’s Gender Equality Strategy © picture alliance/dpa | Volkmar Heinz

Videoconference of EU Employment and Social Policy Ministers: Platform economy and gender equality on the agenda Internal link

German Federal Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection Christine Lambrecht — German Federal Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection Christine Lambrecht chaired the videoconference © Thomas Trutschel/photothek.de

Lambrecht: “Fight against terrorism is also a fight against the hatred and contempt for humanity on the internet” Internal link

Virtueller Rat der EU-Justizministerinnen und –Minister — Germany’s Federal Minister of Justice Christine Lambrecht and EU justice ministers discussed the latest developments concerning the rule of law in European Union member states © European Union

Videoconference of EU Justice Ministers: Focus on rule of law and the fight against terrorism Internal link

German Minister of Health Jens Spahn led the videoconference of EU health ministers — German Minister of Health Jens Spahn led the videoconference of EU health ministers © AFP Pool

Spahn: “The European Union is showing its strength in the pandemic” Internal link

EU and WHO deliver oxygen concentrators to Ukraine — The defining theme of the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union is the increased European cooperation to control the COVID-19 pandemic in the long term © picture alliance / Photoshot

EU Health Ministers discuss integrated European health management and the COVID-19 pandemic Internal link

Felix Klein, Federal Government Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight against Antisemitism — Felix Klein, Federal Government Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight against Antisemitism, at the conference "Together against Anti-Semitism in Europe", which took place on 10 September under the auspices of the German Council Presidency © Flashpic

Council approves declaration on the fight against antisemitism Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas at the annual meeting of EU and ASEAN Foreign Ministers (Videoconference) — Foreign Minister Maas at the annual meeting of EU and ASEAN Foreign Ministers (Videoconference) © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Strengthening EU-Asia relations: EU and ASEAN are to enter into a Strategic Partnership Internal link

PK Olaf Scholz — German Federal Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz at the press conference following the Videoconference of EU Economics and Finance Ministers © Thomas Koehler/photothek.de

Videoconference of EU Economics and Finance ministers: “Important step forward in adapting our rules to the digital economy” Internal link

Graphic city scenes — In our series “Citytour”, we introduce the cities, towns and regions where the informal meetings are taking place © Auswärtiges Amt

Citytour in Wiesbaden: Europe happens here Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: Democracy and social participation in the EU Internal link

Eberbach Monsatery — Part of the meeting was originally supposed to take place in the Eberbach Monastery © dpa

COVID-19 coordination and dialogue with European youth: Michal Roth chairs virtual meeting of ministers for European affairs Internal link

Minister of State Monika Grütters — Minister of State Monika Grütters, Germany’s Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media, led the virtual meeting © BKM

Videoconference of EU culture and audiovisual ministers: “Creative Europe” to be strengthened Internal link

Empty theatre symbol for cultural industries during the pandemic — Discussions during Tuesday's two videoconferences will revolve around reviving the cultural and sporting sectors, both of which have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic © dpa-Zentralbild

Videoconferences within the Council of the EU: Culture, media and sport were in focus today Internal link

European Parliament - Strasbourg — Flags outside the European Parliament in Strasbourg: The new deal aims for a smarter, greener and better connected European Union © Nicolas Roses /Abaca

New cohesion policy rules: Council of the EU and European Parliament reach provisional political agreement Internal link

Angela Merkel meets European MPs via videoconference — German Chancellor Angela Merkel during the virtual conference of the Parliamentary Committees for Union Affairs of Parliaments of the European Union (COSAC) © Bundesregierung/Steins

Videoconference with German Chancellor and EU members of parliament: “We still have a lot of hard work to do” Internal link

German Federal Education Minister Anja Karliczek — German Federal Education Minister Anja Karliczek: "We are firmly committed to our European values" © BMBF/Hans-Joachim Rickel

Videoconference of EU Education Ministers: Education teaches European values Internal link

Federal Minister for Youth Franziska Giffey: Coronavirus is shaping young people’s course of life — Federal Minister for Youth Franziska Giffey: "Coronavirus is shaping young people’s course of life" © BMFSFJ

Videoconference of EU Youth Ministers: Youth encounters in times of the COVID-19 pandemic Internal link

Young folks in a circle looking down — Both of the videoconferences - one for EU ministers of education and the other for EU youth ministers - will focus on the future for European youth © Zoonar.com/Robert Kneschke

Videoconferences within the Council of the EU: Focus on education and youth today Internal link

Researcher with a microscope — The EU wants to better support and network research © Getty Images

Videoconference of EU Research Ministers: Questions and answers on Horizon Europe Internal link

Federal Minister of Education and Research, Anja Karliczek — Federal Minister of Education and Research, Anja Karliczek, at the press conference following the videoconference of Research Ministers © BMBF/Hans-Joachim Rickel

German Research Minister Karliczek: We are going to strengthen and facilitate European research cooperation Internal link

Germany’s Federal Minister for Research and Education, Anja Karliczek — Germany’s Federal Minister for Research and Education, Anja Karliczek, chaired the virtual meeting © BMBF

Videoconference of EU Research Ministers: European Research Area and “Horizon Europe” in focus Internal link

The flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union — Since March, the EU and the UK have continued with regular rounds of negotiations, the difficulties ensuing from the COVID‑19 pandemic notwithstanding © abaca/dpa/picture alliance

Brexit negotiations: Where are we? What happens next? Internal link

Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Franziska Giffey, presents Germany's COVID-19 assistance programmes at the conference — Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Franziska Giffey, presents Germany's COVID-19 assistance programmes at the conference © Jens Ahner / Eventfotografen

Online conference: Supporting European families during the COVID-19 pandemic Internal link

Minister of State for Europe at the Federal Foreign Office Michael Roth — Minister of State for Europe at the Federal Foreign Office Michael Roth participated on Tuesday in negotiations on behalf of the German Presidency of the Council of the EU © German Federal Foreign Office

Mandatory Transparency Register: Provisional agreement on substantial points Internal link

European Networking Conference on Batteries — In clockwise order: the French delegate Minister of Industry Agnes Pannier-Runacher, Vice-President of the European Commission Maroš Šefčovič, the Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier and the Italian Minister of Economic Development Stefano Patuanelli © BMWi

Europe makes progress on battery cell production: Opening of European Networking Conference on Batteries Internal link

Two participating duos in the Europe talks project — Two participating duos in the "Europe talks" project © Meiko Herrmann / ZEIT ONLINE

Europe Talks: Europeans discuss current issues Internal link

The High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, chaired the Videoconference of EU Development Ministers — The High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, chaired the Videoconference of EU Development Ministers © European Union

Videoconference of EU Development Ministers: Sustainable Development Goals and gender equality on today’s agenda Internal link

Germany Europe — Germany in the EU: twelve EU Council Presidencies from 1958 to 2007 © Zoonar/DesignIt

Looking back at Germany's past EU Council Presidencies Internal link

World Children's Day is a special date for the artwork of the German presidency of the Council of the EU — World Children's Day is a special date for the artwork of the German presidency of the Council of the EU - the young generation has a right to be heard © Studio Olafur Eliasson

Earth Speakr on World Children's Day: Hear the voices of the children of Europe! Internal link

German Federal Minister for Women Franziska Giffey — German Federal Minister for Women Franziska Giffey: "Protection of women from violence needs a European response" © Konstantin Gastmann

EU Conference on Gender Equality: Ministers demand Europe-wide helpline number Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with the other EU heads of state and government via videoconference — German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with the other EU heads of state and government via videoconference © Bundesregierung/Denzel

Videoconference of EU heads of state and government: “The news in recent days gives us a high degree of confidence” Internal link

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier — Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier: "Defining key principles for the global space economy" © dpa

Space Council creates momentum for the future of European space Internal link

German astronaut Alexander Gerst floats above the earth. — German European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst floats above the earth © picture alliance / ESA/dpa

Videoconference of EU ministers responsible for space: Europe's role in the space economy Internal link

German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer — Federal Minister of Defence Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer in the videoconference of EU defence ministers © Bundeswehr

Videoconference of EU defence ministers: Threat analysis and Strategic Compass among milestones reached Internal link

EU defence ministers will be briefed on current affairs, particularly the situation in Mali — EU defence ministers will be briefed on current affairs, among them the situation in Mali © dpa

Videoconference of EU defence ministers: These topics were discussed today Internal link

Peter Altmaier, Minister for Economic Affairs — Germany's Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier and EU Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton at today's meeting. © BMWi

Videoconference of EU ministers responsible for the internal market and industry: “Transition to a green and digital economy” Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at the Videoconference of EU Foreign Ministers — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at the Videoconference of EU Foreign Ministers © Thomas Imo/photothek.net

A packed agenda for the EU Foreign Ministers: US elections, multilateralism and the Middle East Internal link

Videoconference of EU Foreign Ministers — Following the internal exchange between the ministers, a virtual exchange with Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki was held © European Union

Videoconference of EU Foreign Ministers: This was on the agenda Internal link

A videoconference of the members of the European Economic Area Council was held on 18 November at the initiative of Liechtenstein’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Katrin Eggenberger. Participants included Germany’s Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth. — A videoconference of the members of the European Economic Area Council was held on 18 November at the initiative of Liechtenstein’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Katrin Eggenberger. Participants included Germany’s Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth. © EFTA

Videoconference of the members of the European Economic Area Council: Joint statement adopted Internal link

Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth delivers his opening statement © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Videoconference of European Affairs Ministers: First country-specific discussion on the rule of law among EU member states Internal link

Doorstep StM Roth — Michael Roth, Minister of State for Europe, will chair the videoconference © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Videoconference of European Affairs Ministers: What was discussed Internal link

Federal Minister Julia Klöckner — Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, Julia Klöckner: "We need to strike a smart balance between climate change mitigation, biodiversity and economic viability" © BMEL

Videoconference of EU Ministers of Agriculture: Council agrees on conclusions for the EU forest strategy Internal link

Bundeslandwirtschaftsministerin Julia Klöckner — Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture Julia Klöckner will chair the virtual meeting of the EU Ministers of Agriculture © dpa

Videoconference of EU Ministers of Agriculture: These topics were on the day's agenda Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: SME policy in the EU Internal link

Minister of Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier — Economic Affairs Minister Altmaier said: "We’re not abandoning small and medium-sized enterprises in these difficult times" © dpa

European SME Assembly: Fresh impetus for the future of European SMEs Internal link

What do children and teenager from Europa wish for the future? Under #ListenToTheFuture, the art work of the German Presidency of the EU Council gathers answers — What do children and teenager from Europa wish for the future? Under #ListenToTheFuture, the art work of the German Presidency of the EU Council gathers answers © Studio Olafur Eliasson

Earth Speakr on World Children's Day: It is time for the politicians to listen to the young generation! Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Tell Me about Europe – “We’re connected by our curiosity about each other” Internal link

BM Seehofer — Federal Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer: "The people can count on European governments to do everything humanly possible to get this scourge of our time under control once and for all" © European Union

EU home affairs ministers agree on measures to fight terrorism Internal link

German Minister of the Interior, Horst Seehofer — German Minister of the Interior, Horst Seehofer, chaired the videoconference on 13 November © Henning Schacht

Videoconference of EU Home Affairs Ministers: Fight against terrorism and migration policy was on the agenda Internal link

Minister Jens Spahn — German Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn: "Health data is paramount, for health care in general, but especially to fight cross-border health threats such as the COVID-19 pandemic" © BMG/Frederic Schweizer

Virtual High-Level Conference “Digital Health 2020 - EU on the Move”: First steps towards a European Health Union Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel greets Zoran Zaev, Prime Minister of North Macedonia and Boyko Borisov, Prime Minister of Bulgaria. — Chancellor Angela Merkel greets Zoran Zaev, Prime Minister of North Macedonia and Boyko Borisov, Prime Minister of Bulgaria © Bundsregierung/Bergmann

Chancellor Angela Merkel following the Western Balkan Summit: Making progress with reconciliation in the Balkans Internal link

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — Foreign Minister Heiko Maas: The agreement "is a ray of hope for the economy and society in Europe" © photothek.net

Maas on the agreement with the European Parliament on the corona recovery package: A huge step for Europe's economic recovery Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the fight against terrorism with European partners — German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the fight against terrorism with European partners © Bundesregierung/Denzel

Videoconference on terrorism in Europe: Taking “an uncompromising stance” against terrorism Internal link

Integration of refugee children — The conference participants exchanged ideas about how to create lasting conditions so that migrants have equal opportunities to integrate in the EU member states © dpa-Zentralbild

Informal dialogue on integration and social cohesion: “Fundamental to an open society” Internal link

German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier with EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton — German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier with EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton © dpa

Commissioner Breton and Minister Altmaier open 7th European Cluster Conference: “Together we must act resolutely” Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel — "We Germans and we Europeans know that in the 21st century, we ourselves need to shoulder greater responsibility in this partnership," said Chancellor Angela Merkel © dpa-pool

Chancellor Merkel congratulates Biden and Harris: “The USA and Germany, as part of the EU, need to stand together” Internal link

Pressestatement Roth zu EU — Today Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth met with his counterparts Gašper Dovžan and Ana Paula Zacarias via videoconference to discuss the most important policy areas of the German Presidency of the Council of the EU, which will also affect Portugal and Slovenia in their respective Council Presidencies © AP/POOL

Trio works to promote rule of law in the EU: Germany, Portugal and Slovenia coordinate efforts Internal link

The European Union is one of the world’s most strongly export-oriented economies. That makes the common trade policy a top priority for member states. — The European Union is one of the world’s most strongly export oriented economies. That makes the common trade policy a top priority for member states. © blickwinkel

Strengthening fair and free world trade: Questions and answers about EU trade policy Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: The World Trade Organization (WTO) Internal link

EU trade ministers discussed a variety of international trade relationships during their videoconference on 9 November — EU trade ministers discussed a variety of international trade relationships during their videoconference © BMWi/Eriksson

Videoconference of EU Trade Ministers: “We need more, rather than less, trade and open markets” Internal link

CHINA-BEIJING-XI JINPING-GERMANY-EU-MEETING — The leaders of the EU and China met on 14 September, chaired by European Council President Michel and Chinese President Xi - together with Chancellor Merkel, representing Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU, and European Commission President von der Leyen © XinHua

Seven facts on EU-China relations: Side by side, in opposition, in partnership? Internal link

Berlin Wall East Side Gallery — The memorial East Side Gallery in Berlin's Friedrichshain neighbourhood boasts the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall. Elsewhere around the world, other, shorter remnants still stand © Zoonar.com/Nando Lardi

Pieces of the Berlin Wall: Symbols of freedom and also a warning Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Faces of Europe: A statement on humanity and shared values Internal link

German Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer at the Informal Meeting of EU Defense Ministers in Berlin — German Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer: "We have demonstrated Europe’s ability to act" © dpa

Breakthrough for third-state participation in PESCO projects: Agreement achieved after years of negotiations Internal link

Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas — German Minister for Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas: "The rule of law is part of the set of values on which the European project is built" © Janine Schmitz/photothek.net

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas: Strengthening the rule of law in the EU significantly Internal link

Meeting ECOFIN Statement Olaf Scholz — The videoconference was chaired by German Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz within the framework of the German Presidency of the Council of the EU © BMF/Photothek

Videoconference of EU Economics and Finance Ministers: A look back at the meeting Internal link

ECOFIN Statement Olaf Scholz — Olaf Scholz, Germany's Minister of Finance, chaired the videoconference © BMF/Photothek

Videoconference of EU Economics and Finance Ministers: Anti-money laundering action plan on the agenda Internal link

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — Foreign Minister Heiko Maas: "We need a strong civil society that teaches children and teenagers by example what it means to show civic courage and stand up for Jews" © AFP-Pool

Message from Foreign Minister Maas for the members’ meeting of the European Network – Countering Antisemitism through Education Internal link

German Justice Minister Christine Lambrecht — German Justice Minister Christine Lambrecht during a videoconference of EU justice ministers © POOL AP

Digital Europe: EU Council adopts new rules to modernise judicial cooperation Internal link

Young people — The revised Youth Guarantee is meant to promote youth employment within the EU, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic © iStock

Labour Minister Heil: Strengthening the Youth Guarantee sends an important message to young people all over Europe Internal link

Understanding Europe in 100 seconds — With 27 member states and almost half a billion citizens, we are the second largest economic power in the world and a global player in many fields. © Bundesregierung

Understanding Europe in 100 seconds: “Stronger together” Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

The “Disappearing Wall” live: Voices from Segovia, Thessaloniki and Brussels Internal link

German Minister of Health Jens Spahn speaks at Bundespressekonferenz — German Minister of Health Jens Spahn chaired the videoconference with his EU counterparts © BMG/Thomas Ecke

Videoconference of EU Health Ministers: “The EU is ready to take a leading role” Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: The World Health Organisation (WHO) Internal link

Strengthening the WHO — The WHO will resume its 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA) via videoconference between 9 and 14 November, bringing together delegations from all 194 member states © BMG

Videoconference of EU Health Ministers: These topics were on the agenda Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel — German Chancellor Angela Merkel during the videoconference of EU heads of state and government © European Union

Videoconference of EU Heads of State and Government: Fighting the pandemic together Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel — German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the videoconference with members of the European Council © European Union

Videoconference of members of the European Council on COVID-19: Coordinated European approach of great importance Internal link

From Passau to Berlin: Informal Meeting of EU Transport Ministers — From Passau to Berlin: the Informal Meeting of EU Transport Ministers could not take place in Passau as planned due to the restrictions imposed by COVID-19 © Unsplash/Pixabay

Virtual Informal Meeting of EU transport ministers: Passau Declaration lays the groundwork for digital mobility in Europe Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: The EU’s common transport policy Internal link

Virtual Informal Meeting of EU transport Ministers: Bringing together sustainability, mobility and digitalisation Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Transport policy Internal link

German Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer — German Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer chaired the virtual meeting on "Harnessing the digital revolution to make the mobility of the future" © BMVI

Virtual Informal Meeting of EU transport ministers: “Harnessing the digital revolution to make the mobility of the future” Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas: "The crisis made it clear that we are one European family" © dpa

Speech by Foreign Minister Maas at the Conference “Young People, Migration and the Demographic Challenge in the Western Balkans” Internal link

Windmill park turbines, red tulip flower field in the Netherlands, wind mill with flowers green energy — The online event “Green Recovery – Emerging stronger from the crisis” consisted of a mid-term review of economic and climate policy initiatives during Germany’s Council Presidency © Zoonar.com/Fokke Baarssen

Climate policy and COVID-19 during Germany’s Council Presidency: Advancing a green recovery Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Hotel Beethoven: Come on a musical journey Internal link

Environment Minister Svenja Schulze — Environment Minister Svenja Schulze at the presse conference after the Environment Council in Luxembourg: Agreement on a partial general approach on the proposed European climate law reached © European Union

Environment Council in Luxembourg: Important milestone for a European climate law Internal link

Autumn forest with street from the bird's eye view — Important forest habitat: EU environment ministers advocate the protection of biological diversity © Hakan Burak Altunoz/Anadolu Agency

Environment Council in Luxembourg: Conclusions on the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030 adopted Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: Digital policy in the EU Internal link

Europe made up of zeros and ones — From increasing digital sovereignty to fighting cybercrime: Germany's Council Presidency has very specific goals for the digital sector © mauritius images/Pitopia

Independent, inclusive and innovative: Four goals of the German Presidency for the digital sector Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: Europe’s single market Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Competitiveness in the European Union Internal link

German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier — German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier chaired the informal videoconference © dpa

Informal Videoconference of EU Ministers for Competitiveness: “We must set the course for the future” Internal link

German Environment Minister Svenja Schulze — On behalf of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU, Environment Minister Svenja SchulzE chaired the meeting © dpa Pool

Environment Council in Luxembourg: These topics were on the agenda Internal link

EU home affairs ministers on the future of Europol — The EU home affairs ministers agree that the future development of Europol must be guided first and foremost by the needs of the law enforcement authorities of member states. © BMI/Henning Schacht

EU home affairs ministers agree on 10-point plan on the future of Europol Internal link

Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer — German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer at the Informal Meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Berlin on 26 August - the last time that "the Trio" had met physically © Bundeswehr

Trio-Presidency: “We stress the importance of making tangible progress in the field of European defence” Internal link

Cows grazing on grass — Reforms to the CAP aim to make European agriculture more sustainable © Ronny Hartmann

From eco-schemes to national strategies: Changes resulting from reforms to the EU's Common Agricultural Policy Internal link

German Agriculture Minister Julia Klöckner at the press conference following the Agriculture Council in Luxembourg with EU Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski — German Minister of Agriculture Julia Klöckner at a press conference with European Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski following the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Luxembourg © BMEL/Photothek/Xander Heinl

German Minister of Agriculture Klöckner: Agreement represents a change of system in European agricultural policy Internal link

Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture Julia Klöckner — Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture Julia Klöckner chaired the Council meeting of EU agriculture ministers © European Union

Agriculture and Fisheries Council: Three important results from the meeting in Luxembourg Internal link

Advancing the European Research Area: German Minister of Education Anja Karliczek (second from left) with EU research ministers at the conference in Bonn — Advancing the European Research Area: German Research Minister Anja Karliczek (second from right) with her EU counterparts at the conference in Bonn © BMBF

German Research Minister Karliczek: European Research Area must guarantee the freedom of research Internal link

Combine harvester harvesting — The Common Agricultural Policy makes farming in Europe more sustainable and more environmentally sound while providing a stable and reliable framework © imago images/Arnulf Hettrich

Background on the Agriculture and Fisheries Council: 10 interesting facts about the Common Agricultural Policy Internal link

A fishing boat on the Baltic Sea — A fishing boat on the Baltic Sea. The European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council have agreed to promote the final retirement of fishing vessels in the Baltic sea as part of Germany's Council Presidency © Ina/stock.adobe.com

EU fisheries ministers adopt 2021 fishing quotas for the Baltic Sea Internal link

EU Council of Agriculture Ministers in Luxembourg — EU agriculture ministers adopted Council conclusions on the Farm to Fork Strategy © BMEL/Photothek/Xander Heinl

Minister of Agriculture Klöckner: Europe confirms its commitment to a sustainable and economically viable agri-food industry Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Creativity and design during Germany's Council Presidency: Sustainable furniture, made in Germany Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel after the European Council meeting in Brussels — Chancellor Angela Merkel after the European Council meeting in Brussels © picture alliance/AP Photo

European Council meeting in Brussels: An agreement would be in the best interests of both sides Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas heading to Paris. — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas heading to Paris © Thomas Trutschel

Foreign Minister Maas in Paris: A day dedicated to the Weimar Triangle Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Digital policy in the European Union Internal link

German Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier — The informal meeting will be chaired by German Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier © BMWi

Informal Videoconference of Telecommunications and Digital Policy Ministers: Digitalisiation on the agenda Internal link

Minister of State Dorothee Bär, Federal Government Commissioner for Digitalisation — Minister of State Dorothee Bär, Federal Government Commissioner for Digitalisation © imago images/Jürgen Heinrich

Interview with Minister of State Dorothee Bär: “We will shape digital transformation on our own terms” Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel at a desk in the German Federal Chancellery during a videoconference of the Tripartite Social Summit — Germany would "use all the means at our disposal to combat the pandemic and its consequences," German Chancellor Angela Merkel promised the European social partners. © Bundesregierung/Denzel

Tripartite Social Summit: We can only master the crisis together Internal link

Maroš Šefčovič, Michael Roth and Didier Reynders — Maroš Šefčovič, Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Interinstitutional Relations, Michael Roth, Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office and Didier Reynders, Commissioner for Justice, at the press conference after the meeting © European Union

COVID-19: Council adopts recommendation to coordinate measures affecting free movement Internal link

EU employment and social policy ministers discussed employee participation and gender equality under the German Presidency — EU employment and social policy ministers discuss employee participation and gender equality under the German Presidency © BMAS / J. Oellermann

German Labour Minister Heil and German Minister for Women Giffey: “We want a social and equitable Europe for all” Internal link

Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth — Michael Roth, Minister of State for Europe at the German Federal Foreign Office, chaired the General Affairs Council © European Union

General Affairs Council: Coordination of the EU's coronavirus measures Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas travels to Cyprus and Greece — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas travels to Cyprus and Greece © Thomas Imo/photothek.net

Maas in Nicosia and Athens: Solidarity and efforts to continue the dialogue Internal link

German Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel — Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel: "Crisis management is a herculean task that we can accomplish all the better if we in Europe all pull in the same direction" © Bundesregierung/Denzel

Speech by Chancellor Angela Merkel on Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU to the European Committee of the Regions Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel speaking to the Committee of the Regions: We need close European cooperation in order to overcome major challenges. — German Chancellor Angela Merkel speaking to the Committee of the Regions: "We need close European cooperation in order to overcome major challenges" © Bundesregierung/Kugler

Chancellor Merkel at the European Committee of the Regions: Pulling together in Europe Internal link

Michael Roth — Michael Roth, Minister of State for Europe at the German Federal Foreign Office, will chair the meeting © European Union

General Affairs Council: These topics were on the agenda Internal link

German Minister of Labour Hubertus Heil and German Minister for Family Affairs Franziska Giffey — German Minister of Labour Hubertus Heil and German Minister for Family Affairs Franziska Giffey will chair the virtual meeting © POOL AP

Videoconference of EU ministers of employment and social policy: These were the topics of the virtual meeting Internal link

The meeting room in Luxembourg — The meeting room in Luxembourg © European Union

Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg: These topics were on the agenda Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas at the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg — Foreign Minister Maas at the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg © Janine Schmitz/photothek.net

Foreign Minister Maas at the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg: Focus on Russia and Belarus Internal link

: Justitia, symbol of law and justice — A statue of Justitia, the Roman goddess of justice and law © dpa-Zentralbild

Germany: Working to promote the rule of law in Europe Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Europe's Kitchen: “Practice more European sensuality!” Internal link

Solidarity Fund Beirut — Humanitarian assistance also means working to help humanity and includes the preservation of cultural infrastructure © Carmen Yahchouchi

Help for Beirut – two months after the explosion Internal link

Federal Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection Christine Lambrecht at a lectern. — Among other topics, Germany's Federal Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection Christine Lambrecht will discuss the digitalisation of EU justice systems with her European counterparts © Bundesregierung

Videoconference of EU ministers of justice: Digitalisation and fundamental civil rights in focus Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas, wearing a face mask, boarding the plane — Foreign Minister Maas is travelling to Bratislava © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Maas in Bratislava: Strengthening dialogue with the Visegrad countries, Greece and Turkey Internal link

European Commission in Brussels — European migration and asylum policy is being reoriented and modernized. The most important questions will be answered here. © dpa

From its legal nature to its implementation: FAQs on the new European Migration and Asylum Package Internal link

Federal Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer — Germany's Federal Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer consulted with his EU counterparts on the European Commission's proposal for new pact on migration and asylum, among other topics © dpa

Videoconference of EU ministers of home affairs: Migration and security were on the agenda Internal link

German Federal Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer will chair the informal exchange between EU transport ministers — German Federal Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer will chair the informal exchange between EU transport ministers © BMVi

Informal exchange of EU transport ministers on the European freight sector Internal link

Co-moderator Katharina Kirschbaum, German Development Minister Gerd Müller, German Labour Minister Hubertus Heil and moderator Tanja Samrotzki (from left to right) engaged with digitally connected guests from all over Europe. — Co-moderator Katharina Kirschbaum, German Development Minister Gerd Müller, German Labour Minister Hubertus Heil and moderator Tanja Samrotzki (from left to right) engaged with digitally connected guests from all over Europe © BMAS/J. Konrad Schmidt

Virtual conference of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs: “Global Supply Chains – Global Responsibility” Internal link

Minister Franziska Giffey talking with young people at the EU Youth Conference — At the conclusion of the EU Youth Conference, Family Affairs Minister Franziska Giffey talked with young people about the issues that concern them © eventfotografen.berlin/Jens Ahner

EU Youth Conference: Young people want to have a say Internal link

Transparency Register negotiations — Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency Věra Jourová (left), European Parliament negotiator Katarina Barley and Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth for Germany's EU Council Presidency welcomed the progress made in the negotiations © EP 2020

Mandatory Transparency Register: Promising progress in the negotiations Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Energy policy in the European Union Internal link

Peter Altmaier, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy — The aim of the online conference, chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier, was to discuss current issues of European energy policy © BMWi

Informal Videoconference of EU Energy Ministers: “Promote and reconcile both climate action and economic development” Internal link

German Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz — German Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz chaired the meeting © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Videoconference of EU Ministers for Economic and Financial Affairs: These topics were on today's agenda Internal link

A hydrogen filling station — A hydrogen filling station: An energy source with potential © dpa

Economic Affairs Minister Altmaier about today's Hydrogen Conference: “Green hydrogen is the energy source of the future” Internal link

Graphic city scenes — In our series “Citytour”, we introduce the cities, towns and regions where the informal meetings are taking place © Auswärtiges Amt

Citytour through green Berlin: Europe happens here Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Europe-wide cultural programme: Faces of Europe at the Festival of Lights in Berlin Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas: "We now champion Europe’s unity just as passionately as we did German unity 30 years ago" © Janine Schmitz/photothek.net

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas on the 30th anniversary of German reunification: “What belongs together, grows together” Internal link

Foreign correspondents share their views — Clockwise: Journalists Tonia Mastrobuoni, Rosalia Romaniec, Polona Fijavž and Pascal Thibaut © Screenshot/Bundesregierung

Perspectives on 30 years of German unity: Foreign correspondents share their views Internal link

On Thursday and Friday, members of the European Council will meet the President of the European Parliament in Brussels. — On Thursday and Friday, members of the European Council will meet the President of the European Parliament in Brussels. © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

European Council meeting in Brussels: “We want to see digital sovereignty in the EU” Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Emmanuel Macron: A packed agenda at the Special European Council meeting in Bruxelles — Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Emmanuel Macron at the Special European Council meeting in Brussels © Bundesregierung/Seins

Special European Council in Brussels: Agreement on Belarus sanctions Internal link

GAIA-X should support the development of a digital ecosystem in Europe which advances innovations, new data-driven services and applications. — GAIA-X should support the development of a digital ecosystem in Europe which advances innovations, new data-driven services and applications. © Getty Images/Yuichiro Chino

Frequently asked questions about the GAIA-X project: Common digital infrastructure for Europe Internal link

German Health Minister Jens Spahn will host the Informal Exchange online — The aim of the online conference, chaired by German Health Minister Jens Spahn, was to hold initial talks about the European Union’s position on potential reforms to the World Health Organisation (WHO) © dpa

Informal Exchange of EU Health Ministers: These topics were on the agenda Internal link

German Environment Minister Svenja Schulze — German Environment Minister Svenja Schulze on the EU's new climate goal: "A common understanding is developing" © BMU

Informal Meeting of EU Environment Ministers: Important step on the road to a climate-neutral EU Internal link

German Presidency of the EU-Council — By assuming the Presidency, Germany has taken on the role of “honest broker” and will seek to find compromises and solutions among the Member states in the Council © BMBF

A half-time round-up of Germany's EU Council Presidency in pictures Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel at the European Council meeting in Brussels in July: at 91 hours and 20 minutes it was the second longest European Council meeting in history — Chancellor Angela Merkel at the European Council meeting in Brussels in July: at 91 hours and 20 minutes it was the second longest European Council meeting in history © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Half-time report: Germany's Presidency of the Council of the European Union in figures Internal link

Svenja Schulze — German Environment Minister Svenja Schulze will exchange views with European colleagues in Berlin on the link between biodiversity loss and the coronavirus pandemic, as well as EU climate targets © BMU

Informal Meeting of Environment and Climate Ministers: Biodiversity and EU climate targets on the agenda Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Climate and environmental protection in the European Union Internal link

German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer presenting the roadmap for further negotiations on European migration policy — German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer presenting the roadmap for further negotiations on European migration policy © Henning Schacht

German Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer: “A gigantic task” Internal link

German Minister for Education and Research Anja Karliczek at the meeting in Brussels — German Minister for Education and Research Anja Karliczek at the meeting in Brussels © European Union

German Research Minister Karliczek: EU member states reach agreement on Horizon Europe Internal link

German Minister of Education and Research Anja Karliczek — German Minister of Education and Research Anja Karliczek discussed Horizon Europe regulation with EU ministers responsible for research and innovation in Brussels © European Union

Meeting of the Competitiveness Council in Brussels: Research and innovation on the agenda Internal link

Peter Altmaier, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy — Peter Altmaier, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, hosted the high-level conference on the future of European cohesion and structural policy © dpa

Conference on the future of European cohesion and structural policy: “We need a strong Europe in order to emerge from this crisis” Internal link

Kabinettssitzung — As the European Sustainable Finance Summit got underway, German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz and Environment Minister Svenja Schulze called on European companies to invest more in sustainable economic activities. © POOL Reuters

European Sustainable Finance Summit: German government calls on European companies to make sustainable investments Internal link

German Development Minister Gerd Mueller was one of the hosts of the meeting — German Development Minister Gerd Müller discussed with his EU counterparts on Tuesday via videoconference © Anadolu Agency

Informal Videoconference of EU Development Ministers: These topics were discussed Internal link

Olaf Scholz, Germany’s Federal Minister of Finance and Vice Chancellor — Olaf Scholz, Germany’s Federal Minister of Finance and Vice Chancellor: "Millions of workers across the EU will benefit from this instrument." © BMF/photothek

COVID-19: Council approves 87.4 billion euro in financial support for member states under SURE Internal link

Every year the Council of Europe celebrates Europe's rich linguistic diversity — Rakastan sinua, je t'aime, ti amo - "I love you" in Finnish, French and Italian. Every year the Council of Europe celebrates Europe's rich linguistic diversity © Getty Images/EyeEm Premium

European Day of Languages: 10 things you never knew about European languages Internal link

German Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer — "Migration policy will decide the fate of Europe," said German Minister of the Interior Horst Seehofer. Reforming European migration and asylum policy is one of the top priorities of Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2020. © Henning Schacht/BMI

German Minister of the Interior on Commission's Pact on Migration and Asylum: “Good basis for discussions with member states” Internal link

The European District in Brussels — The European District in Brussels © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

General Affairs Council: These topics were on Tuesday’s agenda Internal link

EU High Representative Josep Borrell and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — EU High Representative Josep Borrell and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels: These issues were on the agenda Internal link

German Minister for Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas stands in a room decorated with EU flags in Brussels - several microphones are pointed at him. — German Minister for Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas in Brussels © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at the Foreign Affairs Council: We have to consider EU sanctions against Lukashenko personally Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Trade in the European Union Internal link

Roundtable at the Informal Meeting of Trade Ministers in Berlin — During the informal meeting, German Minister of Economic Affairs Peter Altmaier discussed current issues of EU trade policy with his European counterparts © BMWi

Informal Meeting of EU Trade Ministers in Berlin: “Open markets and free trade are the driving forces” Internal link

Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture Julia Klöckner met her European colleagues at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels today — Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture Julia Klöckner met her European colleagues at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels today © European Union

Agriculture and Fisheries Council: These topics were discussed Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Visiting the Foreign Office: Children tell politicians what they should do to safeguard Europe’s future Internal link

German Minister of Economic Affairs Peter Altmaier — German Minister for Economic Affairs Altmaier discussed with his EU counterparts how to deepen the EU’s Single Market to kickstart a strong recovery in Europe © BMWi

Minister for Economic Affairs Altmaier: Functioning and forward-looking internal market essential for Europe’s economic base Internal link

Team CoE-Team — The CoE team (from left to right): Markus Woelke, Hanneke Brouwer, Benjamin Tallis, Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, Volker Jacoby, Taina Järvinen, Daniela Dietmayr, Estela López-Hermoso © Florian Gärtner / Photothek

Opening of the European Centre of Excellence for Civilian Crisis Management (CoE) in Berlin: “We want to pool our know-how” Internal link

Graphic city scenes — In our series “Citytour”, we introduce the cities, towns and regions where the informal meetings are taking place © Auswärtiges Amt

Citytour in Osnabrück: Europe happens here Internal link

German Education Minister Anja Karliczek with European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights Nicolas Schmit on the second day of the Informal Meeting of EU Education Ministers in Osnabrück — German Education Minister Anja Karliczek with European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights Nicolas Schmit on the second day of the Informal Meeting of EU Education Ministers in Osnabrück © BMBF

Education Minister Anja Karliczek: Making vocational education and training in Europe attractive and fit for the future Internal link

During its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Germany aims to strengthen cooperation in vocational training. — During its Presidency of the Council of the EU, Germany aims to strengthen cooperation in vocational training © Bundesregierung

From vocational training to the pandemic: Questions and answers on the Informal Meeting of EU Education Ministers Internal link

German Minister of Education Anja Karliczek — German Minister of Education Anja Karliczek will receive her European counterparts in Osnabrück for an informal meeting from 16 to 17 September © BMBF

Informal Meeting of Education Ministers in Osnabrück: A new impetus for vocational education and training in Europe Internal link

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will deliver today her State of the Union address following her first year in office — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will deliver today her State of the Union address following her first year in office © picture alliance/EU

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen delivers State of the Union address Internal link

Our Social Europe - Strong Together online conference of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs — The conference was the central event on the social dimension of Europe during Germany's Presidency of the Council of the European Union © BMAS

Online conference of the Federal Ministry of Labour: Social justice in action within as well as between member states Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel at the press conference — German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel. One key issue discussed with China was climate action. © Bundesregierung/Steins

EU-China videoconference: An open dialogue with China Internal link

EU-China Summit — Today’s meeting will build upon the 22nd summit between EU and Chinese leaders on 22 June, which also took place virtually © AA

EU-China Summit: These topics are on the agenda Internal link

Petra Sigmund is Director General for Asia and the Pacific at the Federal Foreign Office — Petra Sigmund is Director General for Asia and the Pacific at the Federal Foreign Office © AA

Interview with leading diplomat at the Federal Foreign Office: “The partnership with China is indispensable” Internal link

Child and Picture of earth laughing — Earth Speakr: Talking about the future of the planet © Olafur Eliasson

Earth Speakr: German Embassies and Goethe-Institus invite Kids to share Views about the Future of Europe Internal link

EU ministers of culture meet in Berlin — Minister of State Monika Grütters (first row, middle) with her European counterparts on the steps of the Federal Chancellery © BKM / Guido Bergmann

Meeting of EU Ministers of Culture in Berlin: “A clear message of solidarity” Internal link

Illustration with young people collecting plastic by a river — In 2020, the Europe-wide aim of the plastic pirates is to "capture" waste along riverbanks and in the immediate surroundings of bodies of water © BMBF

Plastic Pirates in Europe: Working together for cleaner rivers and lakes Internal link

Antonov 124 cargo plane — The current relief operation expresses EU member states’ solidarity with the people of Lebanon © German Federal Foreign Office

Concrete help from “Team Europe”: Supporting Beirut after the catastrophic explosion Internal link

German Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz — On 11 and 12 September in Berlin, German Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz discussed Europe's economic recovery and own resources for the EU budget with EU ministers for financial and economic affairs © BMF/Xander Heinl

For a sovereign Europe post-coronavirus: Informal Meeting of EU Ministers for Economic and Financial Affairs (ECOFIN) Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: The euro Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel — German Chancellor Angela Merkel spoke in Berlin on the situation in Moria © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

German Chancellor Merkel on the situation in Moria: “Things need to change” Internal link

The Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community — The Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community and the Federal Governement Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight against Anti-Semitism are jointly organising the EU conference "Together against Anti-Semitism in Europe" © Henning Schacht / BMI

EU Conference of the Federal Ministry of the Interior: New momentum to European efforts in the fight against antisemitism Internal link

An illustration showing a symbols of various cities and Europeans revolving in a circle. — How can we strengthen cohesion in Europe? The Goethe-Institut's series of talks invites Europeans in 13 countries to take part in an intergenerational dialogue on the future of the continent © Groupe Dejour

Cultural programme: Tell Me About Europe project starts today in Prague Internal link

Federal Minister of Justice Christine Lambrecht — Federal Minister of Justice Christine Lambrecht welcomes high-ranking experts from business, research and society at today's Online Conference on Data Economy, AI and Intellectual Property © dpa

Online Conference of the Federal Ministry of Justice: Data Economy, AI and Intellectual Property Internal link

German Minister for Economic Affairs Peter Altmaier with Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, at the European Competition Day in Berlin — German Minister for Economic Affairs Peter Altmaier with Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, at the European Competition Day in Berlin © BMWi/Eriksson

European Competition Day: Federal Minister Altmaier presents ambitious agenda on COVID-19, digitisation and systemic competition Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Discover Europe: Foreign Minister Maas presents the game Pathways Internal link

Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn. The videoconference will build on the discussions at the Informal Meeting of EU Health Ministers on 16 July 2020 — Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn. The videoconference built on the discussions at the Informal Meeting of EU Health Ministers on 16 July 2020 © BMG

Videoconference of EU health ministers on further action to combat the COVID-19 pandemic Internal link

A visit to the Chancellery: German Chancellor Angela Merkel with Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Löfven in Berlin — A visit to the Chancellery: German Chancellor Angela Merkel with Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Löfven in Berlin © AP-Pool

Chancellor Merkel welcomes Swedish Prime Minister Löfven Internal link

Graphic city scenes — In our series “Citytour”, we introduce the cities, towns and regions where the informal meetings are taking place © Auswärtiges Amt

Citytour in Koblenz: Europe happens here Internal link

The series 3 Questions, 3 Answers answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The series "3 Questions, 3 Answers" answers your questions about important topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Auswärtiges Amt

What you want to know: Agriculture in the European Union Internal link

A picture of the EU agriculture ministers who were invited to an informal meeting in Koblenz by Minister Julia Klöckner. — EU agriculture ministers met for an informal meeting in Koblenz, at the invitation of Minister Julia Klöckner. The Minister's initiative for an EU-wide animal welfare label met with broad support © BMEL/photothek

Informal Meeting of EU Agriculture Ministers in Koblenz: Support for European animal welfare label Internal link

The series Looking back, looking ahead explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Federal Foreign Office

Looking back, looking ahead: The EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Internal link

Federal Minister of Agriculture Julia Klöckner met with EU ministers of agriculture in Koblenz. © BMEL/Xander Heinl/Photothek

Informal Meeting of EU Agriculture Ministers: European agricultural and food policy were on the agenda Internal link

At the invitation of his French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian, German Foreign Affairs Minister Heiko Maas spoke at the Ambassadors Conference of the French Republic in Paris. — At the invitation of his French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian, German Foreign Affairs Minister Heiko Maas spoke at the Ambassadors Conference of the French Republic in Paris. © dpa

Maas's speech at the Ambassadors Conference of the French Republic: “EU has shown itself and the world the meaning of solidarity” Internal link

Gymnich Meeting — German Foreign Affairs Minister Heiko Maas and High Representative of the European Union, Josep Borrell, in Berlin today for the Gymnich meeting © Auswärtiges Amt/photothek

Strong together: Maas and Borrell take stock after the meeting of EU foreign ministers in Berlin Internal link

black and white portrait of Olafur Eliasson — Danish-Icelandic conceptual artist Olafur Eliasson created an interactive artwork with children all across Europe for Germany's Presidency © Brigitte Lacombe

A conversation with Olafur Eliasson about Earth Speakr: “An opportunity for a shared experience across borders” Internal link

Familiy photo of the Gymnich meeting in Berlin — Familiy photo of the Gymnich meeting in Berlin © Auswärtiges Amt/photothek.net

Informal Meeting of EU Foreign Ministers in Berlin: These topics are on the agenda Internal link

Castle Gymnich seen from the park — Castle Gymnich in Erftstadt near Bonn. This is where European foreign ministers met informally in 1974 © picture alliance/dpa/Roland Scheidemann

Explaining the EU: What is a Gymnich meeting? Internal link

Informal meeting of the EU defence ministers — After six months, they meet in person again: The defence ministers of the European Union © Bundeswehr

Informal Meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Berlin: “European solidarity gives us strength” Internal link

Due to the pandemic-related restrictions of recent months, it was the first time that EU defence ministers had come together in person again for an informal meeting in Berlin. — Due to the pandemic-related restrictions of recent months, it was the first time that EU defence ministers had come together in person again for an informal meeting in Berlin. © picture alliance/dpa/Michael Kappeler

FAQ about European security policy: Making the EU more resilient and capable of action Internal link

On Wednesday 26 August, EU defence ministers will meet again at the informal meeting in Berlin — On Wednesday 26 August, EU defence ministers will meet at the informal meeting in Berlin © BMVg

Informal Meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Berlin: Strategic Compass in focus Internal link

Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the EU: Demonstrating our ability to act — Germany’s Presidency of the Council of the EU: Demonstrating our ability to act © Unsplash/Waldemar Brandt

Strategic Compass: Developing strategic principles Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at a meeting with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias on 21 July 2020 in Athens — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at a meeting with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias on 21 July 2020 in Athens © picture alliance

Ahead of the Meeting of EU Foreign Ministers in Berlin: Maas travels to Athens and Ankara Internal link

Looking back, looking ahead — The series "Looking back, looking ahead" explains the major topics of European politics in their historical context © Auswärtiges Amt

Looking back, looking ahead: The European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

European Union Youth Orchestra: Europe, united by music Internal link

Macron and his wife greet Angela Merkel outside their summer residence, Fort de Brégançon — President Macron receives Chancellor Merkel at his summer residence, Fort de Brégançon © Bundesregierung/Denzel

Chancellor Merkel meets with President Macron: “Europe is only strong if it speaks with one voice” Internal link

Signs pointing to Fort de Bregancon in southern France. — Signs pointing to Fort de Brégançon in southern France. © Picture alliance / abaca / Bruno Gouhoury

Visit to France: Angela Merkel to hold talks with Emmanuel Macron Internal link

A graphic depicting the basics of the new European Covid-19 assistance packet. — The recovery fund is earmarked for the imperatives of the future, climate action and digitalisation. © Bundesregierung

In brief: The new Multiannual Financial Framework Internal link

Signs pointing to Fort de Bregancon in southern France. — Signs pointing to Fort de Brégançon in southern France. © Picture alliance / abaca / Bruno Gouhoury

Visit to France: Angela Merkel to hold talks with Emmanuel Macron Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel delivering her statement during the press conference — Chancellor Merkel after the special meeting of EU heads of state and government: Agreement not to recognise the results of the disputed presidential election in Belarus © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Special European Council meeting on Belarus: “We stand shoulder by shoulder with the peaceful demonstrators” Internal link

The President of the Council, Charles Michel, will hold a video conference with the members of the European Council to discuss a response to the situation in Belarus — The President of the Council, Charles Michel, will hold a video conference with the members of the European Council to discuss a response to the situation in Belarus © AP Pool

Videoconference of the members of the European Council on the situation in Belarus Internal link

Signposts show where the Iron Curtain Trail goes. It passes through 20 different countries, including 14 EU member states. — Tour d´Europe: The trail passes through 20 different countries, including 14 EU member states. © CC BY-SA 3.0

Iron Curtain Trail cycle path: Tracing the Iron Curtain Internal link

Justus-Lipsius Building in Brüssel. — Justus Lipsius Building in Brussels. Today EU foreign ministers met via videoconference © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Extraordinary meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Council: The following issues were on the agenda Internal link

Claudia Roth, Vice President of the German Bundestag, inaugurates the information mobile on the parliamentary dimension of Germany's Council Presidency — Claudia Roth, Vice President of the German Bundestag, inaugurates the information mobile on the parliamentary dimension of Germany's Council Presidency © DBT/Thomas Köhler/photothek.net

Parliamentary Dimension of the German EU Council Presidency: Creating trust and developing understanding for one another Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas visits the destroyed port in Beirut — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas visits the destroyed port in Beirut © TASS

Foreign Minister Maas in Beirut: Support from Germany assured Internal link

Mass protests erupted in major cities across Belarus on the evening of August 9 following the nation's contested presidential election — Mass protests erupted in major cities across Belarus on the evening of 9 August following the nation's contested presidential election © TASS

Declaration by EU High Representative Borrell on Belarus: “The people of Belarus deserve better” Internal link

After the devastating explosion at the port of Beirut, French President Emmanuel Macron over the weekend held an international donor conference together with the United Nations — After the devastating explosion at the port of Beirut, French President Emmanuel Macron over the weekend held an international donor conference together with the United Nations © Europäische Union

Help for Beirut: How Germany and the EU are providing support Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Get a feel for Europe’s linguistic and intellectual diversity: The interactive project 'Disappearing Wall' Internal link

Interpreter Elisabeth Bock-Chambon in her interpreting booth in a Brussels meeting room. From here she interprets from six languages into German. — Elisabeth Bock-Chambon in her interpreting booth in a Brussels meeting room. From here she interprets from six languages into German. © Sophie Hettrich

Interpreting for the EU: “Bringing Europe to life for everybody” Internal link

The EU and its institutions — Our short film from Germany’s perspective shows how EU citizens influence the Union’s policies when deciding who to elect © Bundesregierung

Understanding Europe in 100 seconds: The institutions of the European Union Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

Artificial Intelligence in Europe: Inspired by the Enlightenment Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel with European Parliament President David Sassoli during her visit to the European Parliament on July 8 — German Chancellor Angela Merkel with European Parliament President David Sassoli during her visit to the European Parliament on July 8 © Le Pictorium Agency via ZUMA

Upcoming budget negotiations: Chancellor Merkel speaks with the presidents of the EU institutions Internal link

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas during a videoconference with Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi on 24 July — German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas during a videoconference with Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi on 24 July © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas on the adoption of EU Council conclusions on Hong Kong Internal link

The Goethe-Institut’s "Europe’s Kitchen" project showcases Europe’s diversity and fosters exchange throughout the continent. © Daniela Burger

“Europe’s Kitchen” to be launched in Copenhagen on 15 August Internal link

Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth at the German Federal Foreign Office — Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth at the German Federal Foreign Office © Thomas Trutschel

Interview with Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth: “Credibility is at stake” Internal link

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel, President of the European Council — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel, President of the European Council © European Union

Four days, four nights: A look back on the special meeting of the European Council in July 2020 Internal link

Pathways - Europe at your fingertips — Pathways' five protagonists © Artificial Rome

A new game about Europe: Pathways – Europe at Your Fingertips Internal link

Handover of the Trio Presidency Declaration on Gender Equality — Handover of the Trio Presidency Declaration on Gender Equality © Permanent Representation/Federal Foreign Office

Trio presents joint Declaration to the cabinet of Equality Commissioner Helena Dalli Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron — Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron © German Federal Government/Bergmann

European Council: “Geared to Europe's future” Internal link

Federal Research Minister Karliczek and EU Research Commissioner Gabriel report on the results of the Informal Meeting of EU Research Ministers. — Federal Research Minister Karliczek and EU Research Commissioner Gabriel report on the results of the Informal Meeting of EU Research Ministers © BMBF/Hans-Joachim Rickel

Karliczek: Making Europe emerge from the crisis stronger through research and innovation Internal link

Video studio for the Informal Meeting of EU Research Ministers — Video studio for the Informal Meeting of EU Research Ministers © BMBF

Informal Meeting of EU Research Ministers: These topics are on the agenda Internal link

For the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the heads of state and government met physically in Brussels. — For the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the heads of state and government met physically in Brussels. © European Union

Press conference of the Special European Council in Brussels Internal link

The start of day three: German Chancellor Angela Merkel with other heads of state and government, including European Council President Charles Michel, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. — The start of day three: German Chancellor Angela Merkel with other heads of state and government, including European Council President Charles Michel, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Day four of the Special European Council: “In such extraordinary situations, we need to go the extra mile.” Internal link

A selection of the goals that the German Council Presidency has set itself in agricultural and fisheries policy. — A selection of the goals that the German Council Presidency has set itself in agricultural and fisheries policy. © Bundesregierung

FAQs on the future of EU agricultural policy: Strong agriculture and secure food supplies Internal link

Live broadcast of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council — A live broadcast of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council began at 10.00 © European Union

Agriculture and Fisheries Council: Reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) on the agenda Internal link

European Council meeting room in the Europa building in Brussels — European Council meeting room in the Europa building in Brussels © European Union

Today's meeting of EU leaders: What does the European Council actually do? Internal link

The current EU financial framework expires this year — The current EU financial framework expires this year © Getty Images/iStockphoto/Tuned_In

European Council to address EU finances Internal link

President of the European Council Charles Michel. — President of the European Council Charles Michel © European Union

“A deal is essential”: Special meeting of the European Council in Brussels Internal link

Hubertus Heil, Federal Minister of Labour and Social Affairs — Hubertus Heil, Federal Minister of Labour and Social Affairs © BMAS / Konrad Schmidt

Minister of Labour and Social Affairs: “We want all people in the EU to be able to live their lives with security and dignity” Internal link

The press conference with Federal Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Hubertus Heil, was streamed live — A press conference with Federal Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Hubertus Heil, will be streamed live at 13.00 © BMAS / Konrad Schmidt

“We need a European solution”: Informal Videoconference of EU Employment and Social Affairs Ministers Internal link

Federal Minister of Health, Jens Spahn — Federal Minister of Health, Jens Spahn. © BMG/Thomas Ecke

Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn: “Strengthening Europe’s resilience together” Internal link

Everything is prepared for the informal meeting of EU health ministers — Everything is prepared for the Informal Meeting of EU Health Ministers © BMG

Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic: Informal Meeting of EU Health Ministers Internal link

Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth — Minister of State for Europe Michael Roth © Thomas Trutschel

Minister of State Roth at the Videoconference of European Affairs Ministers: Efforts to find a compromise Internal link

Minister of State Michael Roth gave a live statement to the press at 13.15. — Minister of State Michael Roth led the meeting © Auswärtiges Amt

Videoconference of European Affairs Ministers: The EU's next long-term budget was on the agenda Internal link

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Chancellor Angela Merkel at a press conference after the two leaders met in Berlin. — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Chancellor Angela Merkel at a press conference after the two leaders met in Berlin © AP POOL

Spanish Prime Minister in Berlin: Getting Europe back on course for growth Internal link

Federal Environment Minister Svenja Schulze and State Secretary Jochen Flasbarth — Federal Environment Minister Svenja Schulze and State Secretary Jochen Flasbarth © BMU

EU environment ministers call for recovery programme in line with environmental and climate policy goals Internal link

The studio for the videoconference of the EU's environment ministers on 13 July. — The studio for the videoconference of the EU's environment ministers on 13 July © BMU / Sascha Hilgers

Virtual meeting of EU environment ministers: European Climate Law was on the agenda Internal link

Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy — Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy © European Union

Strengthening relations with Turkey: Conclusions from the meeting of EU foreign affairs ministers Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas in Brussels — Foreign Minister Maas in Brussels © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

Maas in Brussels: Strengthening EU foreign policy Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel received Italian Prime Minister Guiseppe Conte at the German government's guest house at Meseberg Castle. — Chancellor Angela Merkel received Italian Prime Minister Guiseppe Conte at the German government's guest house at Schloss Meseberg © ANSA

Chancellor Merkel receives Italy's Prime Minister Conte: Overcoming the pandemic in a spirit of solidarity Internal link

European Environmental Data Hackathon Code4Green — European Environmental Data Hackathon Code4Green © BMU

Code4Green: European Environmental Data Hackathon Internal link

Press conference with German Federal Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz following the videoconference — Press conference with German Federal Minister of Finance Olaf Scholz following the videoconference © BMF/Thomas Koehler/photothek

“Emerge from the crisis with full force”: Results of the Videoconference of Economic and Finance Ministers Internal link

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier and Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič — Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Peter Altmaier, and Commission Vice-President, Maroš Šefčovič © BMWI

Federal Minister Peter Altmaier in Brussels for talks with the European Commission Internal link

Mark Rutte, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, is the first guest Chancellor Merkel had the pleasure of welcoming after the loosening of coronavirus restrictions — Mark Rutte, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, is the first guest Chancellor Merkel had the pleasure of welcoming after the loosening of coronavirus restrictions © Bundesregierung

For an economy fit for the future: Chancellor Angela Merkel welcomes Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte Internal link

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the German Chancellory in Berlin. — Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the German Chancellory in Berlin. © ANP

Merkel and Rutte discuss Germany’s Council Presidency Internal link

Chancellor Merkel in the European Parliament — Chancellor Merkel in the European Parliament © picture alliance/AP/Yves Herman

Chancellor Merkel in the European Parliament: “This Europe is capable of great things” Internal link

Chancellor Merkel in the European Parliament: Human rights and civil liberties are Europe's most valuable posessions — Chancellor Merkel in the European Parliament: Human rights and civil liberties are Europe's most valuable posessions © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Speech by Chancellor Angela Merkel on the German Presidency of the Council of the EU 2020 to the European Parliament Internal link

German Chancellor Angela Merkel upon arriving at the European Parliament in Brussels — German Chancellor Angela Merkel upon arriving at the European Parliament in Brussels © EP

Livestream: Chancellor Merkel speaks before the European Parliament Internal link

Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, Franziska Giffey with the joint Trio Presidency Declaration on Gender Equality — Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, Franziska Giffey with the joint Trio Presidency Declaration on Gender Equality © BMFSFJ

Joint Trio Declaration for more gender equality in Europe Internal link

German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer at the virtual informal meeting of the EU's home affairs ministers. — German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer at the virtual informal meeting of the EU's home affairs ministers. © Henning Schacht

EU ministers agree on EU-police partnership, search and rescue at sea at Informal Meeting of Home Affairs Ministers Internal link

The interior ministry's video studio for the Informal Meeting of Home Affairs Ministers in Berlin. — The interior ministry's video studio for the Informal Meeting of Home Affairs Ministers in Berlin © Henning Schacht

First Informal Meeting of EU Home Affairs Ministers during the German Presidency Internal link

Monika Grütters and Peter Limbourg — Minister of State for Culture Monika Grütters with the Director-General of Deutsche Welle, Peter Limbourg © Thomas Imo/photothek.net

Launch of digital conference series on EU media policy: Addressing media pluralism in times of crisis Internal link

German Minister of Justice Christine Lambrecht during the informal meeting on 6 July — German Minister of Justice Christine Lambrecht during the informal meeting on 6 July © Henning Schacht/BMJV

Strengthening democracies in times of COVID-19: Informal Meeting of EU Justice Ministers Internal link

Video studio JI Council — The studio for the Videoconference of EU Justice Ministers on July 6 © Henning Schacht/BMJV

Informal Meeting EU Justice Ministers: These topics are on the agenda Internal link

A mobile phone with Earth Speakr animation, map of Europe with faces, the Disappearing Wall and a director's chair — Earth Speakr, Faces of Europe, Disappearing Wall, Europe in Film and much more - our series "Focus on culture" takes a closer look at the cultural programme of Germany´s presidency of the Council of the EU © AA

One thousand faces of one union Internal link

Chancellor Merkel speaking in the Bundesrat — Chancellor Angela Merkel thanks the federal states for their work in containing the COVID-19 pandemic © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Chancellor Merkel in the Bundesrat: “Solidarity is more important than ever” Internal link

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas is flying to the Slovenian capital Ljubljana — Foreign Minister Heiko Maas is flying to the Slovenian capital Ljubljana for the launch of the Trio Presidency with Portugal and Slovenia © Thomas Koehler/photothek.net

Together for a strong EU: launch of the Trio Presidency in Slovenia Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen — "We look forward to working with the European Commission," declared Chancellor Angela Merkel during the Press conference with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen © Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Chancellor Merkel in conversation with Commission President von der Leyen: Focus on overcoming the crisis and on the future Internal link

Chancellor Angela Merkel in the German Bundestag: Germany will work for economic and social recovery in Europe. — Chancellor Angela Merkel in the German Bundestag: Germany will work for economic and social recovery in Europe © Bundesregierung/Kugler

Launch of Presidency and debate in Parliament: “Expectations of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union are high” Internal link

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and Croatian Foreign Minister Goran Grlić Radman during the symbolic handover of the EU Presidency to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin — Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and Croatian Foreign Minister Goran Grlić Radman during the symbolic handover of the EU Presidency to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin © Florian Gaertner/photothek.net

Germany takes the baton from Croatia Internal link

Olafur Eliasson in front of colouful globe — Danisch-Icelandic conceptual artist Olafur Eliasson © Lars Borges

Kids take over Earth Speakr, an interactive artwork started by Olafur Eliasson Internal link

Minister Altmaier presents his priorities for the German Council Presidency — Minister Altmaier presents his priorities for the German Council Presidency © BMWi

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier: “Emerging stronger from the crisis together” Internal link

To celebrate the start of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU, an animation of the Presidency logo was projected on to the Brandenburg Gate © dpa

Germany assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union: The Brandenburg Gate shines for Europe Internal link

EU-RP Social Media — Find us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube © German Federal Foreign Office

The German Presidency of the Council of the EU launches on social media Internal link

Programme for Germany's Presidency of the Council of the European Union — The Programme for Germany's Presidency of the Council of the European Union is now available in German, English and French © Auswärtiges Amt

Presidency’s work programme now online Internal link

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas — Foreign Minister Heiko Maas © Auswärtiges Amt

Address by Foreign Minister Heiko Maas at the Virtual Annual Council Meeting of the European Council for Foreign Relations (ECFR) Internal link

Germany, Portugal and Slovenia will take over presidency of the EU Council one after another for six months each — Germany, Portugal and Slovenia will take over presidency of the EU Council one after another for six months each © Bundesregierung

Presidency of the Council of the EU: Driving Europe forward as a trio Internal link

Foreign Minister Maas at the Cabinet meeting — Foreign Minister Heiko Maas before the start of the Cabinet meeting on the national programme for the German presidency of the Council of the European Union © Reuters Pool

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas: “Germany wants to be a driving force and facilitator” Internal link

Calendar of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The official calendar of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU is now online © Julia Witzsche/AA

Online calendar of Germany‘s Presidency of the Council of the EU Internal link

Guiding principles of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU — The guiding principles of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU © Bundesregierung

Focus areas agreed: Programme for Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU in place Internal link

Three flags of Germany, Portugal and Solvenia in a circular pattern — An 18-month programme among three nations © German Federal Foreign Office

Trio Programme of the Council of the European Union (1 July 2020 - 31 December 2021) Internal link

In the German Bundestag, Chancellor Angela Merkel gave a government statement about the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which Germany will take over as of July. — In the German Bundestag, Chancellor Angela Merkel gave a government statement about the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which Germany will take over as of July © Bundesregierung/Denzel

Chancellor's government statement: Cohesion and solidarity during the pandemic Internal link

Minister of State Michael Roth — Minister of State Michael Roth © Thomas Koehler/photothek.de

Trio partners announce their common goals ahead of their 18-month term at the helm of the EU Council Internal link

Goethe-Institut is launching five EU-wide participatory projects — Goethe-Institut is launching five EU-wide projects © Goethe-Institut

Goethe presents new projects for the Presidency's cultural programme Internal link

State Secretary Miguel Berger and Secretary-General Helga-Maria Schmid at the videoconference of State Secretaries and Secretaries-General of the Foreign Ministries of EU Member States. — State Secretary Miguel Berger and Secretary-General Helga-Maria Schmid at the videoconference of State Secretaries and Secretaries-General of the Foreign Ministries of EU Member States © Felix Zahn/photothek.net

“Sneak Preview” of Germany's Presidency: Informal Meeting of State Secretaries and Secretaries-General of EU Foreign Ministries Internal link

Half face, half earth: a young girl uses the Augmented Reality feature in Earth Speakr — A girl discovers the digital playground in Earth Speakr © Olafur Eliasson, Earth Speakr, 2020

Olafur Eliasson offers a glimpse of his artwork for the Presidency, created with young people Internal link

Earth Speakr - a participatory, European-wide artwork — Earth Speakr - a participatory, European-wide artwork © Olafur Eliasson

Olafur Eliasson amplifies Europe's youngest voices in 'Earth Speakr' Internal link

Government spokesman Steffen Seibert — Government spokesman Steffen Seibert presents the logo for the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 29 May in Berlin © Bundesregierung/Denzel

German Government presents the Presidency's claim, logo and website Internal link

A.F.Möbius / Holzstich 1868 - A.F.Möbius / Wood engraving 1868 - — Mathematician August Friedrich Möbius © picture alliance/akg-images

A strong band for a united Europe Internal link

European flag — The flag of the European Union © Le Pictorium Agency via ZUMA

Q&A about Germany's Presidency of the Council of the European Union Internal link