Summary: 19 November 2009, Brussels - Press Release: Informal meeting of European Union Heads of State or Government meeting to appoint President of EU Council and High Representative for Foreign Affairs
The Heads of State or Government of the European Union noted with great satisfaction that the Lisbon Treaty will enter into force on 1 December 2009. This Treaty will lay the foundation for a more democratic, efficient and transparent European Union, allowing the Union to better tackle the challenges ahead.
The Lisbon Treaty will provide the Union with a permanent President of the European Council and a High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy that will enhance continuity and strengthen the Union's role in the international arena.
At their informal meeting in Brussels today, the Heads of State or Government reached a political agreement on the following appointments :
- President of the European Council
Mr Herman VAN ROMPUY will be the President of the European Council.
He will be elected by the European Council, for a period of two and a half years, renewable once.
- High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Ms Catherine ASHTON will be the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
She will be appointed by the European Council, with the agreement of the President of the Commission.
The President of the Commission, the High Representative and the other members of the Commission will be subject as a body to a vote of consent by the European Parliament.
- Secretary-General of the Council
Mr Pierre de BOISSIEU will be the Secretary-General of the Council.
He will be appointed by the Council.
The formal decisions on these appointments will be taken once the Treaty of Lisbon has entered into force, on 1 December 2009.
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