EES EFTA States Participate in the European Council Summit

The European Council met for a two-day summit in the Europa Building in Brussels on 21 and 22 March 2024. Chaired by Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, the meeting convened all Prime Ministers of the EU Member States to discuss continued support for Ukraine, security and defence, the situation in the Middle Ease, enlargement and the 30th anniversary of the EEA Agreement. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary, the second day of the summit was dedicated to the EEA cooperation with the participation of the Prime Ministers of the EEA EFTA States, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein (see agenda)

The EEA agreement marked market a turning point in the cooperation between Iceland and the EU. it ensured the free flow of poeple, capital, goods and services between Iceland and the other signatories of the agreement. The agreement has also created numerous opportunities for Icelanders to study, work and do business in the EU Member States and vice versa.

During the summit, the EU and EEA leaders discussed the importance of the EEA agreement and the EU's cooperation with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein, as well as the opportunities and challenges facing the EEA EFTA States and the EU. In her opening address, Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir mentioned the economic and social reforms that have taken place since the agreement was signed and the importance for tthe Member States to work together e.g. on health and climate issues. The Prime Minister also called for solidarity between the Member States in terms of democracy, equality and human rights.

European Union, 2024