Opening the State of the Union debate at the European Parliament, President Roberta Metsola said that Parliament and the people it represents are very eager to hear how Europe can step up with new and bold ideas.
Good morning.
I am pleased to welcome the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to the European Parliament for the annual State of the European Union address. Thank you, dear Ursula, for being with us today and for your engagement with this House.
In these unprecedented times, we need clarity and we need resolve. We need a Europe that takes responsibility for its security, a Europe that makes it easier for businesses and protects jobs by simplifying our processes and cutting unnecessary red tape, a Europe that is fairer for families, workers and women, that ensures safer streets for our children, and a Europe that stands up for the democratic values that define us on the global stage.
When the world too often feels like it is on fire, with Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the horrific situation in Gaza and the Middle East, a re-defined transatlantic relationship, and more urgent engagement of Europe across the world, this Parliament and the people we represent are very eager to hear how Europe can step up with new and bold ideas.
I know that this, as always, will be a lively and energised debate and that it will be based on mutual respect, protecting the dignity of this House.