· The Council of the European Union passes laws, usually legislating jointly with the European
Parliament.

· The Council co-ordinates the broad economic policies of the member states.

· The Council defines and implements the EU’s common foreign and security policy, based on guidelines
set by the European Council.

· The Council concludes, on behalf of the Community and the Union, international agreements between
the EU and one or more states or international organisations.

· The Council co-ordinates the actions of member states and adopts measures in the area of police
and judicial co-operation in criminal matters.

· The Council and the European Parliament constitute the budgetary authority that adopts the
Community’s budget.