The election of the new President of the European Commission and the priorities of the new Commission that takes over on 1 November are the main issues on the agenda of the EU Council, which convenes on Thursday and Friday in Brussels.
Cyprus will be represented at the meeting by President Nicos Anastasiades.
The meeting is considered crucial, after the massive abstention from last month’s European Parliament Elections and the rise of far right and eurosceptic parties, sending a message for the need of reform in the EU economic policy.
European Council President Herman Van Rompuy is expected to propose to the European leaders, Jean-Claude Juncker for the presidency of the Commission. The proposal is expected to be accepted by the vast majority of Member States, and the largest political groups in the EP.
However, the debate will be difficult because of the disagreement of the British Prime Minister David Cameron, who argues that the former Prime Minister of Luxembourg cannot solve the current problems of European citizens. Cameron attempted to create alliances in order to prevent the election of Juncker, but found no response from European leaders. It is very likely that Cameron will request a voting procedure. If he does, it will be the first time that the European Commission President would not be elected unanimously.
Along with the election of the President of the Commission, the Council will determine the priorities of the new European Commission that will take office on 1 November, for the next five years.
Political groups in the European Parliament have warned that they will not approve the new president in mid-July, if the schedule for the new European Commission is not compatible with the wishes of the citizens for reforms in the economic policy, focusing on growth and job creation.
On 27 May, the EU28 agreed to outline the priorities of the European Commission, asking Van Rompuy to bring forward to the summit a comprehensive plan. The plan includes the following priorities: Growth-competitiveness-employment, deepening Eurozone, common energy policy, tackling illegal immigration and Europe`s place in the world. The discussion will focus mainly on growth, employment and competitiveness.
French President François Hollande calls for a more broad interpretation of the Stability Pact, to benefit countries facing financial problems, but have begun reforms. He is asking for more time for the countries to achieve the objectives of fiscal consolidation combined with growth.
On his part, the Italian Prime Matteo Renzi suggests the exemption of certain public investments from the public deficit.
Much will depend on the stance of German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who refuses relaxation of fiscal discipline.