15/01/2016 – The Council discussed growth prospects and macroeconomic imbalances under the “European Semester”, the EU’s annual policy coordination process. It adopted conclusions, and approved a draft recommendation on the economic policies of the euro area. The policy priorities for 2016 are investment, structural reforms and responsible fiscal policies. Regarding macroeconomic imbalances, the Commission is due to publish in-depth reviews in February of the situation in 18 member states.

The Council broadly agreed with the analysis and priorities set by the Commission in its annual growth survey. “Moreover we intend to strengthen and streamline the European Semester, as proposed by the Commission, so as to stimulate implementation of country-specific recommendations”, said Jeroen Dijsselbloem, minister for finance of the Netherlands and president of the Council.

Meeting information

• Outcome of Council meeting
• Indicative programme – Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 15/01/2016
• Provisional agenda, Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 15 January 2016
• List of A items, legislative activities, Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 15 January 2016
• List of A items, non-legislative activities, Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 15 January 2016
• Background brief

The draft recommendation for the euro area will be referred to the European Council in February, with a view to adoption in March. The 2016 European Semester will conclude with country-specific recommendations in July.

Read more here http://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/ecofin/2016/01/15/

uncil conclusions on the Annual Growth Survey