A notice of meeting and provisional agenda published by the Council of the European Union schedules a meeting of the Foreign Relations Counsellors for 2 July 2026. The agenda includes the presentation of the Irish Presidency's foreign relations priorities, discussion on potential restrictive measures concerning Iran's unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), consideration of a Council Decision (CD 455), and reviews of the EU Advisory Mission (EUAM RCA) and the EU Training Mission (EUTM RCA) in the Central African Republic.
The meeting, convened under the Irish Presidency, will open with a presentation of the Presidency's priorities for foreign relations, which are expected to shape the EU's external agenda in the coming months. The Irish Presidency, which began on 1 July 2026, has not yet detailed its foreign policy objectives, but this session will provide the first formal outline to member state representatives.
A key item on the agenda is the discussion and potential adoption of restrictive measures related to Iran's UAVs. This follows growing EU concern over Iran's supply of drones to Russia for use in the war in Ukraine, as well as to other regional actors. If adopted, the measures would expand existing EU sanctions on Iran, potentially targeting entities and individuals involved in UAV production and transfer. The move could escalate tensions with Tehran and affect EU-Iran diplomatic and economic relations.
The agenda also lists consideration of Council Decision (CD) 455, a reference likely linked to a specific foreign policy measure. While the document does not specify its content, such decisions typically concern EU sanctions regimes, common foreign and security policy actions, or international agreements. The legal and operational implications will depend on the decision's scope.
Updates on the EU Advisory Mission in the Central African Republic (EUAM RCA) and the EU Training Mission in the Central African Republic (EUTM RCA) are also scheduled. These missions, part of the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy, aim to support security sector reform and train the Central African armed forces. The reviews may lead to adjustments in mandate, resources, or timelines, influencing the EU's engagement in the country and regional stability.
The Foreign Relations Counsellors prepare decisions for the Foreign Affairs Council. Their recommendations on these items will be forwarded to EU foreign ministers for final adoption. The meeting on 2 July will set the stage for subsequent Council decisions on Iran sanctions and CAR missions, with potential implications for EU foreign policy coherence and international partnerships.