President of the European Council

Each member state of the European Union is entitled to take the helm of the European Council Presidency for a rotating term of six months. A new country is appointed to the presidency on Jan. 1 and July 1 each year. Currently, Denmark occupies the office. In January, Greece will assume the role, followed by Italy in July. Under the current cycle, each EU member assumes the leadership post once every 7.5 years.

The council presidency, a role assumed by the head of state or government from the appointed member state, is responsible for key organizational tasks of the European Council. It is responsible for conveying the Council's wishes to other EU institutions, including parliament and the European Commission and setting the dates for European Council summits and meetings and making sure they go smoothly.

At negotiations between member states, the presidency is required to maintain a neutral position without advocating its own preferences or those of other members. In cases where opinions differ, the president must be ready to offer compromise solutions. The presidency is also responsible for carrying out the European Union's joint foreign and security policy as well as representing the EU abroad.