Former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa is expected to be named the next President of the European Council, potentially restoring his political credibility following a corruption investigation that forced him to resign. Costa was implicated in a corruption probe involving irregular investment deals related to lithium and green hydrogen projects. However, prosecutors mistakenly associated him with Economy Minister António Costa Silva, casting doubt on the case against him. Despite his resignation and a subsequent snap election, Costa has continued to assert his innocence.
While Costa’s appointment to the European Council presidency could help rebuild his reputation, some leaders have expressed concerns about his views on migration. During his tenure as prime minister, Costa implemented liberal migration policies that allowed non-EU citizens to enter Portugal without requiring an employment contract. This approach has drawn criticism from right-wing governments represented in the European Council, including Italy’s government led by Giorgia Meloni. The center-right European People’s Party (EPP) has also raised objections to Costa’s candidacy due to his perceived lack of a firm stance on the war in Ukraine.
Costa’s ability to form alliances with leaders across the political spectrum may be crucial in securing broad support for his candidacy. Despite potential disagreements on policy issues, Costa has developed close relationships with some hard-right leaders, such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Costa’s visit to Hungary to attend a soccer match with Orbán last summer highlighted their personal rapport, which could prove advantageous in garnering support within the European Council. Orbán, known for his willingness to use veto power to block EU decisions, could play a decisive role in determining the success of Costa’s bid for the presidency.
The appointment of António Costa as President of the European Council may hinge on political negotiations among EU leaders, particularly regarding the distribution of power roles in Brussels. The European People’s Party has sought to leverage their position to secure a share of the Council presidency, complicating the path to Costa’s potential appointment. Costa’s candidacy has faced scrutiny from leaders with differing views on migration policy and international relations, underscoring the complexities of the selection process. However, Costa’s track record as a skilled negotiator and consensus-builder could ultimately strengthen his position in the race for the European Council presidency.
In light of the ongoing political developments in Portugal and the broader European arena, António Costa’s prospects for securing the presidency of the European Council remain uncertain. While he has garnered support from allies such as Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, challenges from opposing factions within the European Council pose obstacles to his candidacy. Costa’s ability to navigate these political dynamics, address concerns raised by various leaders, and rally broad backing for his appointment will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the selection process. As the negotiations continue, Costa’s aspirations for political vindication and redemption may hang in the balance, with the European Council presidency representing a pivotal opportunity for him to reshape his political legacy on the European stage.
