In an address delivered during the Polityka Insight discussion in Warsaw, European Parliament President Metsola outlined a vision for Europe’s priorities as Poland prepares to assume the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Speaking against the backdrop of significant geopolitical and economic challenges, Metsola emphasised the need for unity, realism, and strategic action in shaping the European Union’s future.
Strengthening Transatlantic Partnerships
Metsola opened by reflecting on recent global political shifts, particularly in the United States, and the potential implications for Europe. Acknowledging the election of President Trump and his “America First” agenda, she underlined the importance of preserving and strengthening transatlantic bonds.
Her message was clear: Europe must navigate differences with the U.S. by focusing on areas of mutual benefit, such as defence, trade, and global affairs.
“Trade wars benefit nobody,” Metsola cautioned, urging Europe to approach its partnership with the U.S. as equals. She called for pragmatic action to avoid protectionist policies while ensuring that Europe remains a global economic and political leader.
Enhancing Security and Defence
Poland’s pivotal role in European security featured prominently in Metsola’s speech. She praised the country’s unwavering stance against Russian aggression and its leadership in supporting Ukraine since the onset of the war.
“Poland understands that Europe’s level of readiness must match the level of the threat,” Metsola stated, highlighting the need for a robust and complementary defence framework within NATO. This, she argued, includes boosting defence spending, supporting the European defence industry, and ensuring greater interoperability between nations.
The European Union’s security measures, she added, are not only about protecting borders but also about safeguarding global stability. Supporting nations like Ukraine and Belarus, she explained, is both a moral imperative and a critical component of Europe’s own security architecture.
Driving Bold Trade and Economic Policies
Turning to trade, Metsola called for Europe to embrace bolder ambitions. She stressed the importance of open, fair trade grounded in international rules, arguing that Europe’s strength lies in its ability to compete globally while protecting its sensitive industries.
She also addressed the urgent need for access to critical raw materials to sustain economic growth. Failure to act decisively in securing these resources, she warned, would leave Europe vulnerable to competitors. Balancing trade policies with the needs of farmers and local producers, Metsola advocated for solutions that protect the most sensitive sectors while enabling export-driven industries to thrive.
Building a Competitive and Resilient Internal Market
Metsola expressed pride in Europe’s open markets and social safety nets but acknowledged areas for improvement. Simplification, smarter regulation, and cutting unnecessary bureaucracy were identified as key priorities for the current European Parliament legislature.
She highlighted energy costs as a critical challenge, noting their impact on Europe’s competitiveness. Metsola praised recent advances in gas storage and electricity market reforms but emphasised the need for a fully integrated energy market. Such measures, she argued, would reduce price volatility and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy in energy.
Upholding Values and Rule of Law
Metsola linked Europe’s stability and global influence to its commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. She commended Poland for the significant progress it has made over the past year, including unlocking critical EU funds and advancing discussions on security and defense.
She stressed that these values are not abstract ideals but essential components of a stable and predictable government. As Poland prepares to lead the EU Council, Metsola described the nation as a driving force for Europe’s collective success, declaring, “A strong Poland means that a strong Europe is real.”
A Call to Action
Closing her speech, Metsola called for courage and political will to tackle Europe’s challenges head-on. She expressed optimism that the EU has the tools and experience necessary to succeed but emphasised the need for decisive action.
The upcoming Polish EU Council Presidency, she suggested, offers a unique opportunity to demonstrate European leadership and solidarity. As she addressed the gathering in Warsaw, Metsola left her audience with a powerful reminder: Europe’s future depends on its ability to unite and act decisively in the face of adversity.
Main Image: Photographer: Daina Le Lardic Copyright: © European Union 2024 – Source : EP
