The priorities of the Dutch presidency of the European Union in the second half of this year are, in brief, the enlargement of the European Union, the sustainable growth of the European economy, security, a sound European multiannual budget and a more effective role for the EU in the world. The Netherlands also plans to start a debate with the Union’s citizens and governments on how to advance European integration and cooperation and on common European values.

The priorities of the Dutch Presidency form a supplement to the Irish and Dutch Annual Operating Programme for 2004 and the Multiannual Strategic Programme for 2004-2006.

Download:
Priorities of the Dutch Presidency (pdf)
Priorities of the Dutch Presidency (word)

Ireland and the Netherlands, which hold the presidency this year, have drawn up a joint annual operating programme for 2004. The intention is to implement the existing European agenda and the key policy priorities set out in the Multiannual Strategic Programme for 2004-2006.

Download:
Irish and Dutch Annual Programme 2004 (pdf)

The Multiannual Strategic Programme was drawn up by the six succeeding presidencies for the period 2004-2006: Ireland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, United Kingdom, Austria and Finland. The programme gives an overview of the challenges that the Union will face in the three-year period.

Download:
Multiannual Strategic Programme 2004-2006 (pdf)

Information from the ministries

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality:
General
Letter to parliament 

Ministry for Development Cooperation:
The Dutch presidency and European development cooperation 

Ministry of Economic Affairs:
General 
Letter to parliament

Ministry of Defence:
Speech Minister Kamp

Ministry of Education, Culture and Science:
General 
Priorities 

Ministry of Finance:
Presidency Work Programme for the Ecofin Council (pdf)

Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport:
General

Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment:
General

Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations:
General 
Introducing The Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations during the EU presidency 

Ministry of Justice:
General 
Multiannual programme building the area of freedom, security and justice (pdf) 

Ministry of  Social Affairs and Employment:
General 

Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management:
General 
Letter to Parliament