Spain unveiled its priorities for its six-month stint at the EU's helm during the first half of 2010. Spain will be the first country to take the rotating presidency since the nomination of a permanent EU president and a High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

The Treaty of Lisbon entered into force on 1 December 2009. The Commission believes that the new treaty provides significant new benefits for citizens and will settle the institutional debate for the foreseeable future.

José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, announced on 27 November the portfolio’s responsibilities for the next Commission.