January 2 (SeeNews) - The Council of the European Union said Bulgaria took over the institution's rotating presidency from Estonia on January 1.
Bulgaria's presidency, which will last until June 30, will focus on four key areas - future of Europe and young people, security and stability, Western Balkans and digital economy, the Council said in a statement published on its website.
From July 1, Bulgaria will hand over the Council's presidency to Austria, which will preside over the institution until end-2018.
The presidency of the Council rotates among the EU member states every six months. During this six-month period, the presidency chairs meetings at every level in the Council, helping to ensure the continuity of the EU's work.
The Bulgarian presidency will be held under the motto "United we stand strong", which is also the motto of the coat of arms of Bulgaria.
"The presidency will work with its partners on unity among the member states and the EU institutions to provide concrete solutions to build a stronger, more secure and solidary Europe," the Council said.