• In the sphere of the CFSP, to represent the Union, to apply the decisions that were taken, and to defend the positions of the Union in Organisations and International Conferences (Article 18 of the TEU). The Presidency also has the responsibility of consulting with the European Parliament on the most important aspects and fundamental options of the CFSP and keep it informed, on a regular basis, on the evolution of this policy (Article 21 of the TEU);
• In the sphere of cooperation in matters of Justice and Internal Affairs, to inform the Parliament, on a regular basis, within the spheres of Title VI of the EU Treaty (nº2, Article 39 of the TEU);
• To negotiate agreements with the authorization of the Council, in the sphere of the Second and Third Pillars (Articles 24 and 38 of the TEU);
• To summon a Conference of Representatives of the Member States' Governments (IGC) whenever it is necessary to adopt alterations to the Treaties that establish the European Union (2º§ of Article 39 of the TEU);
• To co-preside in the conciliation committees summoned under the proceeding of co-decision and to participate in the trilogy*  and in the meetings held in that context;
• To preside the sessions of the Negotiation Conferences of accession to the European Union of candidate countries;
• To preside or co-preside ministerial meetings of the Union with third countries;
• To sign the acts adopted by the Council, usually during an interruption of the session of the Council;
• To proceed with the accreditation of Ambassadors of third countries (outside the General Affairs and External Relations Council)in the European Union.

*The term trilogy refers to the meetings where the Presidency (along with the GSC), the European Parliament and the Commission participate