BRUSSELS – As they brace for the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, leaders of the European Union's 27 member states are to discuss the bloc's future long-term budget and a multibillion-euro post-coronavirus recovery plan during a video summit Friday that is aimed at paving the way for a compromise later this summer.Friday's Council meeting is just the first step in intense discussions that could culminate with a deal in July if member states overcome their differences.
According to several EU officials and diplomats who spoke in the buildup to the meeting, the goal of this virtual reunion is very limited and a common declaration of good will would already be seen as success.The 750 billion-euro ($825 billion) rescue fund.