Charles Michel steps down as European Council welcomes new president

Outgoing President of the European Council Charles Michel has officially passed the baton to António Costa. A brief ceremony held on Friday was marked by calls for political unity in facing challenges.

“The only way to truly be patriotic is to ensure sovereignty, to build a united Europe. Because only together can we protect security, stability, and peace on our continent. Only together can we achieve common prosperity, economic growth, and the climate transition,” Costa said.

Costa is the former prime minister of Portugal. He will take over as the president of the European Council on Dec. 1, with a term lasting two and a half years, renewable once.