Portugal’s former head of government, António Costa, has formally assumed the post of EU Council President. A first exchange with Ursula von der Leyen and Roberta Metsola is planned for this Monday. Costa wants to make a „jour fix“ with the President of the Commission and Parliament every two weeks a tradition. The Portuguese politician is committed to more exchange and cooperation – and this is urgently needed, especially regarding China. The EU Council in particular has been divided in recent years when it comes to new regulations and requirements affecting relations with the People’s Republic.