European Union leaders met in Brussels on October 15 for a two-day summit focused on high energy prices, competition from China and the bloc’s next long-term budget. Reuters reported the agenda on Thursday, while the European Council confirmed that economic competitiveness and geopolitical uncertainty frame the discussions. The talks bring together leaders from the EU’s 27 member states.
According to Reuters, the meeting follows an agreement between the European Commission and Beijing to limit imports of Chinese hybrid cars. The news agency put the EU’s goods trade deficit with China at €360 billion in 2025. Draft summit conclusions envisage further dialogue with Beijing alongside use of trade defence measures; they do not constitute an adopted decision.
The Council said leaders would guide the Commission on targeted, temporary measures to ease high energy costs for households and businesses. They would also discuss reducing dependence on fossil fuels over the longer term. This places immediate relief and the future energy strategy on the same political agenda, without announcing a new aid package.
On the 2028–2034 budget, European Council President António Costa wants discussions to consolidate the elements needed for agreement by the end of 2026, according to the Council. He linked a timely deal to stability and predictability for farmers, researchers, regions, companies and citizens. That timetable is an objective, rather than confirmation that governments have resolved their differences.
The official agenda also includes support for Ukraine, its infrastructure needs before winter, migration, enlargement and the Middle East. Leaders are due to consider maritime security and freedom of navigation, which affect energy, fertiliser and food supplies. The summit runs through October 16; its published agenda describes discussions ahead, rather than final agreements on these issues.
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