Merkel hands over EU Council presidency to Portugal

By Senhan Bolelli

MADRID (AA) - Just before the term presidency of the European Union will officially pass from Germany to Portugal, Germany’s chancellor handed over her post Wednesday to Portugal’s prime minister in a video message.

In her message, Angela Merkel stressed that the COVID-19 pandemic was the central challenge during Germany's six-month term.

"I am confident that together we will be stronger than the virus. We are seeing this in action right now," she said, referring to the vaccination process.

Stressing that the EU is commited to making vaccines available in all countries, Merkel pointed out that the cooperation since the pandemic’s impact on countries’ economies and citizens’ jobs will be managed together.

"I wish the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the European Union every success. Germany will do everything it can to support Portugal," she added.

In his video message, Antonio Costa thanked the German Presidency for "its excellent job" at the helm of the European Union.

"It’s an honor and a huge responsibility for Portugal to receive this baton from your hands and to continue your work," he said.

He stressed that the Portuguese Presidency will focus on three main priorities, which are economic and social recovery, the development of the European Union Social Pillar, and to reinforce the strategic autonomy of a European Union open to the world.

Portugal will officially take over the rotating presidency of the EU Council from Germany on Jan. 1.