About the Latvian Presidency of the European Union in the first half-year of 2015
Every 6 months, on a rotating schedule, a European Union (EU) member state becomes the presiding state and is leading the work of the EU Council. The presidency is an opportunity for every member state, regardless of its size or length of membership, to influence the EU agenda and guide EU endeavors.
The Presidency organizes and provides leadership to the EU Council, COREPER (Permanent Representatives Committee), and working group meetings. There can be up to 2000 meetings during the 6 month period. The objective of the Presidency is to be a neutral mediator.
Additionally, the Presidency’s tasks are to act as a coordinator within the EU Council, work with other member states, and the EU Council General Secretary, as well as with the European Commission, European Parliament and the President of the European Council. The Presidency represents the EU Council in relation with the European Commission, and acts as the EU Council’s representative outside the EU.
The Latvian Presidency of the Council of the European Union occured during the first 6 months of 2015. When Latvia joined the EU, it became a part of the EU decision making process and by taking on the presiding state function; Latvia showed its willingness and readiness for governance at the highest level of the EU.