The European Council has released its agenda for its upcoming meeting in Brussels, to be held on 13-14 December 2012. Three important issues will be discussed. First, the plans for the further development of economic and monetary union (EMU). In June, the European Council called on the four presidents to develop a "specific and time-bound roadmap" for completing EMU. The roadmap on the table builds on an interim report discussed at the October European Council and on ideas put forward during informal consultations held with the member states and the European Parliament. It outlines work to be done during three stages (end 2012-2013; 2013-2014; post 2014) in order to establish an integrated financial framework, an integrated budgetary framework and an integrated economic policy framework, and to strengthen democratic legitimacy and accountability.

Second, the European Council will take note of the annual growth survey submitted by the Commission and task the Council to examine it in order to provide the March 2013 European Council with its views. The annual growth survey outlines priority actions to be taken by member states in order to ensure better-coordinated and more effective policies for fostering sustainable economic growth. Third, the European Council will adopt conclusions in order to launch preparatory work for the December 2013 European Council which will hold an in-depth discussion on defence issues. Elements to be addressed include, inter alia, increasing effectiveness of missions undertaken under the Common Security and Defence Policy, enhancing the development of defence capabilities and strengthening Europe's defence industry.