The Spanish EU Presidency coincides with the beginning of a new phase for the EU, with a renewed Parliament and Commission and a new treaty in effect since 1 December. With this outlook, Spain, Belgium and Hungary have drawn up a work programme for the 18-month period during which they will hold the Presidency in succession, according to the new regulations which apply in Europe.

It will be the first 'trio' of presidencies to be formalised and perform its functions in accordance with the Treaty of Lisbon. The aim of this new procedure is to provide the work and initiatives of the EU with more continuity.

With regard to the operational programme of the Health Council, the Spanish presidency has defined its aims as follows:

The Presidency will expand the 2006 Council Declaration on EU health system's common values and principles, considering the priorities of the second 2008-2013 Community action programme on health and the Union's future health strategy.

It will also try to foster the approval of the Directive on organ donation and transplant, the development of advanced therapies, as well as integrated care and assistance for chronic and non-transmissible diseases.

In terms of public health innovation, the Spanish Presidency will promote electronic health, or e-health, and will foster patient's quality and security improvement initiatives and the work conducted by the High Level Public Group.

With regard to medicines, safety and quality will be reinforced, improving pharmacovigilance systems and influencing on other aspects such as antimicrobial resistance, the rational use of antibiotics and the fight against drug forgery.