Invitation letter by the president Donald Tusk to the members of the European Council:

“We will start the March European Council with our traditional exchange of views with the President of the European Parliament, Mr. Antonio Tajani, at 15.30 on Thursday. Following this exchange, and before we move on to other matters, we will proceed with the election of the European Council President for the period from June 2017 to November 2019. In accordance with established practice this will be the first item of our agenda, and I will leave Prime Minister Muscat in charge of handling it.”

“Next, we will revert to our usual format, where Prime Minister Muscat will update us on how we are doing implementing our previous conclusions, including on migration. After adoption of the conclusions on migration, we will hold our traditional spring debate about the economy. The overall outlook in terms of growth, employment and public finances is getting better. And we need to use this momentum to make the economies stronger while spreading the benefits of growth more widely and fairly among citizens. The deepening of the Single Market and a robust trade policy are two avenues to help us achieve those goals. At the same time, we also need to avoid the creation of new barriers, both in Europe and on the global stage. I have invited the President of the European Central Bank to share with us his observations on the EU and the euro area economies.”

“At the end of the working session, we will briefly address the possible establishment of a European Public Prosecutor’s Office. After adopting the relevant parts of the conclusions, we will break to meet the press.”

“Over dinner, we will review the situation in the Western Balkans, which is fragile. Several of you requested this discussion at our last meeting, given growing concern over recent developments. The EU will remain engaged in the Western Balkans and stand by its commitments. During dinner, we will also look at how to sustain the momentum behind our common objective of reinforcing Europe’s security and defence.”

“The day following the European Council, the 27 Heads of State or Government will meet informally at 10.00 to prepare for the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome. This discussion is intended to build on our fruitful debate in Malta. We should conclude our proceedings before lunch”.

“As we will meet for the first time in the new Europa Building, let us hope our new premises will be conducive to substantive discussions and, most importantly, good results for Europe and its peoples. I look forward to seeing you in Brussels”.