Press release – Metsola to EU leaders: “2025: Time to step up”
Strasbourg, 19 December 2024 – “2025: Time to step up” is the clear message that President Roberta Metsola sent to EU leaders today, as she presented the European Parliament’s priorities for the upcoming European Council.
“We have entered a critical phase in our history. The war in Ukraine, the energy crisis, the rising cost of living, and the climate emergency are all testing our resilience like never before”, Metsola said. “Our citizens expect us to lead, to find solutions, and to build a future that is secure, prosperous, and sustainable.”
The Parliament’s priorities for 2025
The European Parliament is calling on EU leaders to focus on the following priorities in 2025:
- Defending democracy and the rule of law
- Ensuring energy security and affordability
- Tackling the climate crisis
- Supporting the recovery and resilience of Ukraine
- Strengthening the EU’s global role
Defending democracy and the rule of law
The Parliament is deeply concerned about the deteriorating state of democracy and the rule of law in some EU member states. It is calling on the EU to take strong action to protect these fundamental values.
“Democracy and the rule of law are the foundation of our European Union. We cannot allow them to be eroded”, Metsola said. “We need to be vigilant in defending our democratic institutions and values.”
Ensuring energy security and affordability
The war in Ukraine has exposed the EU’s dependence on Russian energy. The Parliament is calling on the EU to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources and to invest in energy efficiency.
“We need to make sure that our citizens have access to affordable and secure energy”, Metsola said. “We cannot allow ourselves to be held hostage by authoritarian regimes.”
Tackling the climate crisis
The climate crisis is one of the most pressing challenges facing our planet. The Parliament is calling on the EU to step up its efforts to reduce emissions and to adapt to the effects of climate change.
“The future of our planet depends on our ability to tackle the climate crisis”, Metsola said. “We need to act now, before it is too late.”
Supporting the recovery and resilience of Ukraine
The war in Ukraine has caused immense suffering and destruction. The Parliament is calling on the EU to continue to provide political, financial, and military support to Ukraine.
“We will not rest until Ukraine has won this war and has rebuilt its country”, Metsola said. “We are committed to standing with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
Strengthening the EU’s global role
The EU must play a more active role in addressing global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and conflict. The Parliament is calling on the EU to strengthen its partnerships with like-minded countries and to promote its values around the world.
“The EU must be a force for good in the world”, Metsola said. “We must use our power and influence to make a positive difference.”
Next steps
The Parliament’s priorities for 2025 will be discussed by EU leaders at the European Council on 20-21 December. The Parliament will then vote on a resolution setting out its detailed recommendations for the EU’s priorities for the year ahead.
Press release – Metsola to EU leaders “2025: Time to step up”
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