António Costa – President of European Council
António Costa, formerly the prime minister of Portugal, has been selected as the next President of the European Council, a significant decision by the council in Brussels. This appointment underscores Portugal's growing influence within the European Union (EU), despite Costa not being initially considered among the top candidates.
António Costa’s Political and Leadership Profile Born in 1961, António Costa started his career as a lawyer and has held various political roles, including serving as a cabinet minister in Portugal and vice president of the European Parliament. He is known for his pragmatic leadership and commitment to social justice, qualities he demonstrated during his tenure as Prime Minister of Portugal.
Notable Achievements and Recognition António Costa, often referred to as the “Gandhi of Lisbon” due to his modest lifestyle and Indian descent, received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman from the President of India in 2017, recognizing his significant contributions to the Indian diaspora. He also holds an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.
Background of the European Council Presidency Established by the Treaty of Lisbon in 2007, the President of the European Council plays a crucial role in facilitating consensus among EU member states on common policies. António Costa's candidacy against Charles Michel reflects his commitment to promoting European unity and freedom.
MCQs:
What position has António Costa been chosen for?
- A) President of Portugal
- B) Prime Minister of the European Union
- C) President of the European Council
- D) Mayor of Lisbon
What is the significance of António Costa's selection?
- A) Portugal's increasing power in the EU
- B) Decrease in EU member states' influence
- C) Enhanced trade relations with India
- D) None of the above
What is one of António Costa's previous roles?
- A) Mayor of Madrid
- B) Vice President of the European Parliament
- C) Chancellor of Germany
- D) Prime Minister of France
How is António Costa often referred to due to his lifestyle and descent?
- A) "The Lincoln of Lisbon"
- B) "The Gandhi of Lisbon"
- C) "The Mandela of Lisbon"
- D) "The Churchill of Lisbon"
Who was the first President of the European Council?
- A) Angela Merkel
- B) Herman Van Rompuy
- C) Emmanuel Macron
- D) Ursula von der Leyen
What does the President of the European Council primarily do?
- A) Draft EU legislation
- B) Represent the EU in international trade negotiations
- C) Facilitate consensus among EU member states
- D) Manage the European Central Bank
COMMENTS