Arriving at the European Council, Luís Montenegro called for diplomacy and said that Portugal has been trying to “raise awareness among all parties involved” about the need to return to negotiations.
War in Iran: EU leaders insist that “a way out is needed, not an escalation”
Thursday, 19 March 2026RSS

Context & Explainers

The European Council (Conselho Europeu) brings together EU heads of state or government to set the bloc’s overall political direction and priorities; it does not adopt ordinary legislation. Its president, Charles Michel, has chaired meetings since December 2019, and the Council’s political endorsement is important for major trade and investment deals, so those following EU policy should note its stance on agreements like the EU–Mercosur deal.








