EU's Strategy for Economic Competitiveness

EU's Strategy for Economic Competitiveness

kathimerini.gr

EU's Strategy for Economic Competitiveness

The EU seeks to enhance its economic competitiveness against the US and China by focusing on innovation, energy security, and defense while navigating the challenges of a new US administration and internal disagreements within the bloc.

Greek
Greece
EconomyEuropean UnionEuEnergyCompetitionDefense
European UnionEuropean CommissionEuropean CouncilEuropean Investment Bank
Donald TrumpUrsula Von Der LeyenMario DraghiCharles MichelKyriakos Mitsotakis
How does the energy situation affect the EU's plans?
Concerns over energy prices and dependence on Russia led the EU to consider increased imports of US LNG. This is viewed as a potential bargaining chip in negotiations with the new US administration under Donald Trump, to avoid potential trade tariffs.
What is the main goal of the European Union's recent initiatives?
The European Union aims to boost its economic competitiveness against China and the US. This involves leveraging the EU's multiannual budget, strategic priorities, and private financing, as outlined in the Budapest Declaration.
What strategies does the EU propose to bridge the innovation gap?
The EU seeks to close the innovation gap with competitors through regulatory simplification and a potential new legal framework for startups. This is alongside plans for decarbonization, digitalization, and enhanced energy security.
What is the EU's stance on joint debt issuance and defense spending?
While there was initial resistance from some member states, notably Germany and the Netherlands, regarding the idea of joint debt issuance, the EU is prepared to continue discussions on the matter and consider using the EU's multiannual budget or other resources for defense spending.
What are the key areas Mitsotakis highlighted for improving European competitiveness?
Mitsotakis emphasized the need to translate words into action regarding European economic competitiveness. He highlighted innovation, energy (including cross-border energy links), and military autonomy as key areas needing immediate attention.