Spain to assume presidency of EU on July 1

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - The Spanish foreign minister on Thursday presented Madrid's roadmap that will be followed after assuming the presidency of the EU on July 1.

Jose Manuel Albares explained that his country's term will be marked by the theme of "Europe Closer," particularly in response to the ongoing Russian war.

"The war has returned to Europe, a war that puts principles and values ​​at stake. In this situation we must be united," said Albares, once again expressing support for Ukraine.

He described being at Ukraine's side as supporting "democracy against authoritarianism".

In addition, he announced that during the Spanish presidency, Madrid wants to "advance in the accession process of the candidate countries: accompany new candidates such as Ukraine".

He stated that Spain will have four priorities during its six-month-long presidency term; reindustrializing the EU, advancing the ecological and environmental transition, advancing towards "greater "social and economic justice, and maintaining unity "in defense of a national order based on rules that give priority to peace, stability and development."

During its term, Spain plans to organize 22 informal meetings on its territory and the European Political Community meeting, which will be held on Oct. 5 in Granada, is among these meetings.