The EU Heads of state or government of the Member States meet in Brussels on 14 and 15 December 2017 and look at a number of the most pressing issues, including defence, migration, foreign affairs, social issues, education and culture.

EU Leaders are expected to welcome the launch of the permanent structured cooperation (PESCO). On 13 November, 23 Member States notified their intention to join PESCO to enhance defence cooperation.They will also review progress in other fields, notably on EU-NATO cooperation. The European Council will adopt conclusions on social issues as well as on education and culture. Under the Leaders' Agenda, leaders will hold a debate on the way forward on migration policy, including both the internal and external dimensions. Leaders will reassess the state of progress in the Brexit negotiations to determine whether sufficient progress has been achieved on three specific issues: citizens' rights, Ireland and financial obligations

Plenary session Week 50 2017 in Strasbourg - Preparation of the European Council meeting of 14 and 15 December 2017 - Council and Commission statementsPress conference