The International Press Association (API-IPA), in partnership with the Residence Palace, invites Brussels-based correspondents to an ApiHour briefing on the priorities of the upcoming Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Thursday, 25 June 2026, 18:00–19:00.
Ireland will assume the rotating EU Presidency on 1 July 2026 for the eighth time. The Presidency will focus on three key priorities: competitiveness, security, and values. Its full programme is due to be published on 10 June.
👉 Registration for EU-accredited correspondents only via https://tinyurl.com/apihour
Key topics are expected to include continued support for Ukraine, EU enlargement, strengthening European competitiveness through simplification measures and preparations for negotiations on the EU’s next long-term budget.
The Presidency takes office at a time of significant geopolitical uncertainty, with growing challenges to Europe’s security and economic resilience. H.E. Ambassador Aingeal O’Donoghue, Ireland’s Permanent Representative to the EU, will open the discussion with a brief presentation of Ireland’s priorities and expectations. The session will primarily be dedicated to questions and answers with participants.
WHEN: Thursday, 25 June 2026, 18:00–19:00
WHERE: International Press Center Residence Palace, Salle des Mirroirs, Rue de la Loi 155, 1040 Brussels
WITH: H.E. Ambassador Aingeal O’Donoghue, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the European Union
Moderator: Catherine Feore, Vice-President API
👉 Registration for EU-accredited correspondents only via https://tinyurl.com/apihour
