How does the European Council set long-term priorities for the European Union?

The European Council sets the long-term priorities for the European Union by convening the heads of state or government of all member countries at least twice a year to define the agenda for European political and economic integration.1

Established in 1974, the European Council shares its agenda-setting role with the European Commission. While the Commission is responsible for formulating policies and drafting legislation, the European Council provides the high-level strategic direction for the organization. Following the adoption of the Lisbon Treaty in 2009, the European Council is led by a permanent president, who serves a two-and-a-half-year term and acts as the "face" of the EU in policy matters, ensuring continuity in the pursuit of these long-term objectives.12