Representing the European Parliament at the summit, President Roberta Metsola will address heads of state or government on 19 March at 10.00. This will be followed by a press conference.

When: press conference at around 11.00 on 19 March

Where: European Council press room and EBS

At their meeting in Brussels, the heads of state or government are expected to focus on the military escalation in the Middle East and Europe’s response to the geopolitical and economic fall-out. Leaders will also discuss Europe’s ongoing efforts to secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine with President Zelenskyy. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will join the summit for the discussion on the situation in Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank. The summit will also focus on the next EU long-term budget (multiannual financial framework), security and defence, the single market and its implications for EU competitiveness, as well as migration.

On 11 March, Parliament discussed its…