Belgium takes over the rotating EU presidency

Belgium took over the rotating six-month EU Presidency on July 1st, and will pass it to Hungary on January 1st 2011.

Fight against financial crisis, creation of new jobs and climate change have become key points of the new presidency’s working program.

Belgium will advocate more institutional control over financial markets to protect businesses from financial instability risks.

The new presidency will also focus on environment, as it intends to enhance energy efficiency, promote green transport and reform the EU’s energy law.

A special exhibition will take place from 1 July to 31 December 2010 in the Justus Lipsius building in Brussels, to promote the “European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion”.

The exhibition includes 11 creations by stylists and six creations by Belgian designers made from second-hand items and clothing ferreted out at the Petits Riens. Some of these unique pieces have been specially created for this exhibition in order to stress the importance of the Belgian Presidency of the European Union.

Background

After the entry into force of the EU’s new Lisbon Treaty, the role of the rotating six-month presidency has changed. At some fields, like General Affairs and External Relations Council or the European Council, the rotating presidency has given its place to permanent High Representative or the President of the European Council.

Nevertheless, the role of the rotating presidency remains important for sector-specific work of the EU Council (energy, transport, education, environment, etc).

Read more: Belgian presidency’s web-site