European Union leaders will focus on strengthening the bloc’s economy and competitiveness amid growing geopolitical uncertainty at their summit in Brussels next week, European Council President António Costa said in his invitation letter to member states’ leaders.
The meeting, which begins on 15 October, will address measures to ease the impact of high energy prices on households and businesses. Costa said targeted and temporary measures were needed in the short term, while the EU continued efforts to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
Leaders will also review the implementation of the ‘One Europe, One Market’ competitiveness agenda for 2026–2027. Costa stressed the need to translate political commitments into tangible results that create new opportunities for European businesses, start-ups and citizens.
The summit will also examine measures to address global macroeconomic imbalances affecting European industry.
A key item on the agenda will be the EU’s multiannual financial framework for 2028–2034. Costa described the next long-term budget as a strategic instrument for building a more competitive, economically stronger, and more autonomous Europe.
He said reaching an agreement as soon as possible was essential to ensure economic predictability and stability. Budget negotiations are entering a decisive phase in October, Costa added, urging leaders to make progress on outstanding issues with the aim of securing a final agreement by the end of the year.
Support for Ukraine will remain among the EU’s main priorities, according to Costa. Leaders are expected to reaffirm their backing for the country in the face of Russia’s aggression and hear an update from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Ukraine’s preparations for winter, particularly in light of intensifying Russian attacks on critical infrastructure.
The progress of Ukraine’s EU accession process will also be discussed.
European leaders will review what Costa described as Russia’s hybrid attacks across Europe and consider ways to strengthen the EU’s defence readiness. He called for continued momentum in defence investment and faster progress in addressing critical gaps in military capabilities.
Migration will feature in a strategic discussion on the bloc’s approach. Costa said the EU’s policies were producing results, pointing to a significant and sustained decline in irregular arrivals. However, he stressed that member states must remain prepared for crises and show solidarity with countries facing migration pressure.
The summit will also address EU enlargement and the reforms needed to accommodate future members. Costa highlighted preparations for an accession treaty with Montenegro and the goal of concluding accession negotiations with Podgorica before the end of the year.
Developments in the Middle East will also be on the agenda, with particular attention to freedom of navigation and maritime security. Costa said these were essential to the functioning of global supply chains, especially those involving energy, fertilizers and food.
The summit is scheduled to conclude on Friday, following two days of talks beginning on Thursday, 15 October.
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