On Tuesday, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) debated key issues of trade, defence, and competitiveness with European Council President António Costa and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, emphasizing the need for decisive action to strengthen the EU’s economy and security.
President António Costa highlighted the urgency of enhancing Europe’s competitiveness and fostering greater investment in defence, describing the recent 20 March summit as a turning point in the EU’s pursuit of strategic sovereignty. He stressed that economic growth is essential to fund defence initiatives and called for closing gaps in innovation and productivity while reducing bureaucratic obstacles.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to negotiating a resolution with the US over tariffs but warned that Europe is prepared to retaliate if necessary. She also emphasized diversifying trade partnerships and strengthening the single market by eliminating barriers, with new proposals expected in the coming months to streamline market access.
MEPs stressed the importance of reinforcing EU strategic autonomy through a simplified market economy, advocating for reduced administrative burdens. Some cautioned that economic reforms must not compromise Green Deal objectives.
Many MEPs urged stricter enforcement of sanctions against Russia, utilizing frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction, and strengthening security commitments to Kyiv. Others insisted that the EU should apply equal attention to the Middle East to avoid double standards in foreign policy.
Some MEPs criticized Hungary for obstructing key European Council decisions, arguing that its actions weaken the EU’s ability to respond effectively to crises. Concerns were also raised about democratic backsliding in the country, with calls for stronger protections of European values and fundamental rights.
Several MEPs advocated for a coordinated EU-wide approach to migration, focusing on more effective return policies and strengthening partnerships with countries of origin to address migration’s root causes.
The discussions underscored the EU’s pressing need to reinforce its economic and security foundations while navigating geopolitical challenges and internal political divisions.
