Council of ministers refers to a group of individuals who are responsible for the management and administration of a government. There are several synonyms that can be used for council of ministers such as cabinet, executive council, governing body, ministerial council, or simply the ministry. In some countries, the council of ministers is also known as the council of state or advisory council. The members of the council of ministers are often selected by the head of state or government and hold key portfolios that are responsible for the functioning of different sectors such as finance, defense, health, education, and foreign affairs. Regardless of the name used, the council of ministers plays a critical role in the governance of a country.