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Traditionally, the member state in presidency of the EU council – a role which rotates between member countries every six months – focusses on running the every-day tasks required for the functioning of the EU. However, Hungary, which has just recently assumed this role, has begun its six-month term by announcing a focus on the development of aquaculture within Europe.
“In theory, its powers are primarily focussed on the day-to-day functioning of the EU. But barely two weeks in, it is already clear that Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban is looking to shake things up,” said a Chatham House spokesperson, as reported by Undercurrent News.
During its six month term of presidency, Hungary aims to focus on the development of European aquaculture to bolster food production, filling the gap left by declining wild catches whilst also reducing disputes over fisheries sovereignty.
“In addition, it will be an important task for the presidency to promote environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable EU fisheries by setting annual allowable catches for fish stocks in a predictable and science-based manner,” the state declared.
Whether or not Hungary is successful in using its short term to drive the development of aquaculture is yet to be seen, however Orban has already caused upset amongst other EU leaders by visiting Russia’s president Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping whilst displaying EU flags.
