Germany will not receive support from companies while presiding over the EU

The German Government will refrain from receiving financial support from commercial sponsors during the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) in the middle of this year.

Recently, it was criticized in Brussels that Romania had the sponsorship of Coca-Cola and other companies during their six months of presidency last year.

In view of this, the EU Ombudsman, Emily O’Reilly, called on the European Council to issue guidelines regarding sponsors.

O’Reilly pointed out that the image and neutrality of the Council presidencies are in danger. The Foodwatch consumer rights protection organization had filed a complaint because of Coca-Cola’s financial support for Romania.

Foodwatch praised Germany’s decision today. This is “the only right decision,” said Thilo Bode, the organization’s manager.

Germany will assume the presidency on July 1st for six months. The main task of the EU Council is to lead and coordinate the numerous meetings of the ministerial representatives of the member countries. At the same time, the presidency of the Council can establish priorities and political issues.

K. Tovar

Source: dpa