The deal on 2013 EU budget reached by the Cyprus presidency, representatives of the European Parliament and of the European Commission was approved by the Council. President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, confirmed that a majority is emerging which is ready to vote favourably during the vote next week under certain conditions.

The Council approved the agreement with the European Parliament on the 2013 EU budget and draft amending budget nº 6 for 2012, therefore confirming the deal reached between the Cyprus presidency, representatives of the European Parliament and of the European Commission at a trilogue on 29 November. Permanent representatives approved the compromise text on 30 November.

According to the Council, the agreement provides for additional resources within the 2012 EU budget in order to address a shortfall of payments and puts the spending priorities within the 2013 EU budget on measures enhancing growth and jobs while taking account of member states' consolidation efforts. If the European Parliament approves the package the 2013 EU budget and draft amending budget nº 6 for 2012 are considered to be adopted.

European Parliament President Martin Schulz stressed in the light of the Council approval on the deal and after consulting the political groups, a majority is emerging which is ready to vote favourably during the vote next week under certain conditions such as that the drafts for joint statements regarding payments must be strengthened by the signatures of the Presidents of the three institutions. Mr Schulz underlined that bills for the budget year 2012 cannot be financed through shifting within the already underfinanced budget 2013, but must be provided by the Member States additionally. The necessary guarantees for this must be delivered at the highest levels of the institutions; there is no margin left for interpretation.