Finland Times

The Ukraine situation and relations with Russia, the development of the Economic and Monetary Union, and the fight against terrorism are among the issues to be discussed at the meeting, said an official press release.

The EU leaders will discuss the European Union's counter-terrorism measures following the January attacks in Paris.

"The fight against terrorism is a common challenge for the whole of Europe, and one which we can only win together. Exchange of information and cooperation between the authorities of EU countries and third countries must be improved. Pending reforms such as the EU passenger information system should be adopted as a matter of urgency," emphasises Stubb.

Implementation of fundamental and human rights and respect for the rule of law must be upheld in the fight against terrorism, the release quoted the Prime Minister as saying about the informal talks.

The meeting will also discuss development of economic policy coordination and receive a report on the discussion on the Greece situation that took place at Wednesday's meeting of the Eurogroup.

In addition, the EU Heads of State or Government will discuss the situation in the Ukraine crisis following negotiations in Minsk.

President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has been invited to the European Council meeting to report on the situation in Ukraine.