Page "Council of the European Union" Paragraph 17

The role of the Presidency is administrative and political.

On the administrative side it is responsible for procedures and organising the work of the Council during its term.

This includes summoning the Council for meetings along with directing the work of COREPER and other committees and working groups.

The political element is the role of successfully dealing with issues and mediating in the Council.

In particular this includes setting the agenda of the council, hence giving the Presidency substantial influence in the work of the Council during its term.

The Presidency also plays a major role in representing the Council within the EU and representing the EU internationally, for example at the United Nations.