Politics
Hungary’s Role in Europe’s Future: Von der Leyen on Crisis, War, and Economic Growth
On a day that marked significant reflection and determination, Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, addressed the European Parliament, focusing on key issues impacting Hungary, Ukraine, and the wider European Union. With a tone of solidarity and unity, she emphasized the importance of collective action in tackling the pressing challenges of our time: from climate change and migration to competitiveness and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Aftermath of Extreme Weather in Central Europe
The speech opened with von der Leyen expressing solidarity with Hungary and Central Europe after devastating floods, which delayed the meeting by three weeks. She described the extreme weather as a consequence of climate change, highlighting that “five months’ worth of rain fell on Central Europe in just four days.” The magnitude of the floods was unprecedented, causing destruction to landmarks, crops, and industries across the region, particularly in Budapest.
However, amidst this devastation, von der Leyen applauded the resilience of the Hungarian people: “In these three weeks, we have seen the people of Hungary rolling up their sleeves and helping one another.” She emphasized that Europe would stand by Hungary, stating, “The European Union is there for the people of Hungary in this emergency and beyond.” The European Commission had already mobilized its Copernicus satellites to aid in the rescue efforts, and Hungary was encouraged to access the EU’s Solidarity Fund to rebuild.
Supporting Ukraine Through Its Hardest Winter
Von der Leyen shifted the focus to Ukraine, a country heading into its third winter of war with Russia. The situation has worsened as Russia continues its assaults, launching over 1,300 drones on Ukrainian cities in the past month alone, targeting essential energy infrastructure and causing widespread destruction. In a powerful rebuke to those who downplay Russia’s aggression, von der Leyen asked, “Would they ever blame the Hungarians for the Soviet invasion in 1956? Would they ever blame the Czechs or Slovaks for the Soviet repression of 1968?” She emphasized that the Ukrainian people are freedom fighters, much like the heroes who liberated Central and Eastern Europe from Soviet rule.
Europe’s response to the war is unwavering. Von der Leyen announced that the EU, alongside the G7, had pledged €50 billion to Ukraine, of which €35 billion would come in the form of loans to support the country’s national budget. Critically, these loans would be repaid using the windfall profits from immobilized Russian assets. “We are making Russia pay for the damage it caused,” she asserted, emphasizing Europe’s continued support for Ukraine “through this winter and for as long as it takes.”
Enhancing European Competitiveness
The next priority in von der Leyen’s speech centered on improving European competitiveness. She referred to the Draghi report, which provided a roadmap for strengthening the EU’s economic future. The primary concern raised was the “innovation gap” between Europe and other major economies, particularly in the digital space. “Too many of our innovative companies have to look at the United States or Asia to finance their expansion,” she noted, pointing out that while European households have €300 billion in savings, much of it is invested outside the continent.
Von der Leyen proposed a solution: the creation of a savings and investment union, aimed at eliminating barriers that prevent companies from scaling up across European borders. To boost competitiveness, she suggested a reduction in regulatory burdens, especially in sectors like finance and digital technologies.
However, the president took a firm stance against Hungary’s current policies, criticizing the Hungarian government for its discriminatory practices towards European businesses. She questioned how Hungary could hope to attract investments when it imposes arbitrary export restrictions, discriminatory taxes, and allows corruption to flourish in public contracts. “This creates uncertainty and undermines investors’ trust,” she warned, pointing out that Hungary’s GDP per capita had fallen behind its Central European neighbors.
Decarbonization and Energy Security
Von der Leyen also tackled the issue of decarbonization, a critical part of Europe’s path towards sustainability. In light of the ongoing war, she reminded the parliament of the pledge made by all 27 EU leaders at Versailles to diversify away from Russian fossil fuels. “One thousand days later, Europe has indeed diversified,” she declared, with half of Europe’s electricity generation now coming from renewable energy sources. However, she condemned Member States that still relied on Russian fossil fuels, stating unequivocally that “Russia has proven time and again it is simply not a reliable supplier.”
Her message was clear: energy security is synonymous with European security. Europe must continue its transition to clean, homegrown energy, creating jobs within the EU rather than sending money to Russia.
Migration: A Challenge for Europe
Migration remained a key topic in von der Leyen’s speech. Acknowledging it as a “European challenge that requires a European answer,” she emphasized the importance of implementing the newly adopted Pact on Migration and Asylum. The EU is already working with Member States at its external borders, but von der Leyen expressed concern over Hungary’s approach to the migration issue. She pointed out that Hungarian authorities had released convicted smugglers and traffickers from prison before they had completed their sentences, undermining European efforts to combat illegal migration. “This is not fighting illegal migration in Europe. This is not protecting our Union,” she criticized.
Additionally, von der Leyen highlighted the security risks posed by Hungary’s visa scheme, which allowed Russian nationals to enter the EU without proper security checks. She also questioned the Hungarian government’s decision to allow Chinese police to operate within its borders, describing these actions as threats to European sovereignty.
A Call for European Unity
Von der Leyen concluded her speech with a powerful call for European unity, recalling Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s words from 2011 when Hungary first held the Presidency of the Council of the EU: “We will follow in the footsteps of the revolutionaries of 1956. We intend to serve the cause of European unity.” Reaffirming that “Europe must stand united,” she addressed the Hungarian people directly, saying, “Your story is our story. Your future is our future. 10 million Hungarians are 10 million good reasons to keep shaping our future together.”
In this critical moment for Europe, von der Leyen’s speech served as both a warning and a reminder of the values that bind the European Union together—solidarity, unity, and a shared commitment to freedom and democracy.
Politics
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DISCLAIMER TRANSLATIONS: All articles in this site are published in English. The translated versions are done through an automated process known as neural translations. If in doubt, always refer to the original article. Thank you for understanding.
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Politics
Von der Leyen Charts Strategic Path for Europe’s Future at Budapest EPC Meeting
European Commission President emphasizes transatlantic ties, economic resilience, and defense preparedness as EU leaders focus on competitive, sustainable, and secure Europe
At the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Budapest, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined a strategic vision for Europe’s future, emphasizing transatlantic relations, economic resilience, and defense preparedness.
Von der Leyen began by congratulating Donald J. Trump on his recent electoral victory, expressing eagerness to strengthen the transatlantic bond. This gesture underscores the EU‘s commitment to robust relations with the United States, a key ally in addressing global challenges.
The President highlighted Europe‘s unity in overcoming recent crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the energy challenges stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine. She stressed the importance of continued collaboration to navigate future challenges.
Central to her address were three strategic priorities:
- Joint Plan for Competitiveness, Digitalization, and Decarbonization: Von der Leyen referenced the Draghi Report, authored by former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, which calls for substantial EU investments to enhance competitiveness and address climate goals. The report recommends annual investments of €750 billion to €800 billion to keep pace with global competitors like the U.S. and China. Euronews
- Reducing Overdependencies and Leveling the Economic Playing Field: The President emphasized the need to mitigate Europe‘s reliance on external entities, fostering a more balanced economic environment. This aligns with Draghi’s recommendations for a comprehensive industrial strategy to prevent the EU from lagging behind global competitors. Financial Times
- Enhancing Defense Capabilities and Preparedness: Drawing on the Niinistö Report by former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, von der Leyen advocated for bolstering Europe’s defense mechanisms. The report suggests that the EU allocate 20% of its budget to security and crisis preparedness, addressing geopolitical tensions and climate change risks. Financial Times
Von der Leyen’s address reflects a proactive approach to Europe’s future, building on expert insights to navigate complex global dynamics. Her call to action underscores the EU’s commitment to unity and strategic planning in the face of evolving challenges.
Politics
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DISCLAIMER OPINIONS: The opinions of the authors or reproduced in the articles are the ones of those stating them and it is their own responsibility. Should you find any incorrections you can always contact the newsdesk to seek a correction or right of replay.
DISCLAIMER TRANSLATIONS: All articles in this site are published in English. The translated versions are done through an automated process known as neural translations. If in doubt, always refer to the original article. Thank you for understanding.
DISCLAIMER PHOTOS: We mostly used photos images that are readily available online, from free sources, or from the people promoting the news. If by any chance it happens that we have used one of your copyrighted photos, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will take it down without question. We do not make profits as this is a not for profit project to give voice to the voiceless while giving them a platform to be informed also of general news, and it is completely free.
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