EU summit: It is high time we put the EU’s economy on a “war footing”

Putting the EU economy of a "war footing"

In the invitation letter to the two-day summit starting on 21 March Michel stressed in relation to the provision of military aid to Ukraine that "urgency, intensity and unwavering determination are imperative".

Additionally, we must focus on effectively implementing and enforcing our sanctions, as well as advancing our efforts on the use of windfall profits from immobilised assets,

he added.

Highlighting one of the items on the Council's agenda, Michel also underlined that "this is also a time for a real paradigm shift in relation to our security and defence."

"For decades, Europe has not invested enough in its security and defence. Now that we are facing the biggest security threat since the Second World War,

it is high time we take radical and concrete steps to be defence-ready and put the EU’s economy on a “war footing”.

"This means spending more, and buying more jointly, thus more efficiently. We must also help the defence industry access private and public funds, and reduce regulatory burdens and barriers," he added.

The war in Gaza

Michel said it is "imperative that we address the situation in the Middle East."

"The atrocities of the October 7th attacks and the ensuing war in Gaza have crossed the brink of inhumanity. Too many civilians have perished. Too many innocent lives are at risk because of the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and raging famine.

"International law needs to be fully respected. A sustainable ceasefire is urgently needed to protect civilians, allow the hostages to return safely and ensure that humanitarian assistance can be delivered as needed.

Our efforts to prevent regional escalation need to be stepped-up, especially in Lebanon and the Red Sea.

"Ultimately, the European Union remains committed to a just and comprehensive resolution between Israelis and Palestinians, with the State of Israel and a democratic, sovereign, and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition."

Farming

Michel said the Council's attention will also focus on agriculture. "Our European farmers have voiced  their concerns loud and clear. We need to act decisively on the challenges they face. This means taking stock of the work carried out so far and ensuring that progress is made without delay, particularly with regard to the position of farmers in the food supply chain and to fair competition, both within the internal market and globally."

EU enlargement

He also suggested taking stock of preparations for enlargement and reforms, "bearing in mind that the two strands need to advance in parallel to ensure that both future Member States and the EU are ready by the time of accession."

On this note, click on the link below to find out more about a new proposal to be tabled today by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the EU enlargement process, as the idea floated is a major step away from the all-or-nothing approach of Brussels.

Cover photo: Getty Images