EU Council

The Council of the EU is asking whether Europe should develop its own payment system, reducing dependence on non-European card networks and platforms. The debate centres on achieving strategic autonomy in retail payments, with supporters arguing a European alternative would strengthen sovereignty and cut reliance on US-based providers like Visa and Mastercard, while critics question the cost and viability of such an ambitious project.

EU member states have agreed a common negotiating position on the next Multiannual Financial Framework's support for the fisheries sector covering 2028-2034. The Council will now negotiate with the European Parliament and the European Commission over how future funding for fishing communities, fleet measures and sustainable fisheries will be structured under the next long-term EU budget.