On January 1st, 2023, Sweden took over the Presidency of the EU Council. This position is one of the most vital roles a member state can play to represent their country’s interests and priorities. For the first half of 2023, Sweden will reside in this position and plans to emphasize four challenges; security, transitioning to greener energy, competitiveness, and upholding democratic values within the EU. One crucial point of the agenda is to increase economic and military support for Ukraine, as well as continue to push for Ukraine’s accession to the EU. The second half of 2023 will face another presidential change. Spain will assume the next presidency beginning July 2023. This is an incredibly well-timed rotation for Spain as they will have the control to shape and influence the agenda for the next European cycle and commission. Key priorities such as digitalization, emphasis on technology, and data security are on the agenda. Spain hopes to create a more stable and integrated Europe during its presidency, showing the importance of cohesion between member states working towards common goals.

How will Sweden and Spain work together to advance shared goals? What challenges does Spain anticipate during the EU presidency, and how will they address them? What initiatives has Sweden introduced to address the climate crisis and how will Spain approach this issue? How has Sweden promoted the EU’s green agenda and sustainable development during its Presidency? What steps will Spain take to enhance the EU’s digital transformation? In what ways has Sweden promoted the EU’s continued competitiveness and economic growth?

Confirmed speakers:

H. E. Fredrik Jörgensen, Ambassador, Embassy of Sweden of the Czech Republic,

H. E. Alberto Moreno Humet, Ambassador, Embassy of Spain of the Czech Republic,

Ivo Šlosarčík, Professor, Department of European Studies, Charles University.

The moderator of the event is Jan Macháček, Chairman of the Board, Institute for Politics and Society.

The closed debate will be held on June 28th, 2023 from 8:30 to 10:00. The working language of the business breakfast is English. The event is by invitation only.