At our informal meeting, I would like us to focus on three particular issues, namely: bolstering our defence capabilities; reducing our energy dependency, in particular on Russian gas, oil and coal, and building a more robust economic base.
Russia has brought war back to Europe. This unprovoked and
unjustified military aggression against Ukraine grossly violates
international law and undermines European security. Russia is inflicting
unspeakable suffering on the Ukrainian population. We commend the
people of Ukraine for their courage in defending their country. Together
with Ukraine, we stand firmly on the side of freedom and democracy.
Ukraine is part of our European family.
In response to Russia's aggression, the European Union has shown
unity and strength. We have imposed on Russia the strictest sanctions
ever adopted. The European Union and its Member States are providing
coordinated humanitarian, political, financial and material support to
Ukraine. Member States are also showing immense solidarity in hosting
countless people fleeing the war.
This conflict and its consequences will be at the heart of our
informal meeting in Versailles on 10 and 11 March, which President
Macron will kindly host.
Over the past years, faced with multiple crises and challenges, we
engaged together on an ambitious strategic agenda. In the light of
recent events, it is more urgent than ever that we take decisive steps
towards building our sovereignty, reducing our dependencies and
designing a new growth and investment model.
Consequently, at our informal meeting, I would like us to focus on three particular issues, namely:
- bolstering our defence capabilities;
- reducing our energy dependency, in particular on Russian gas, oil and coal, and
- building a more robust economic base.
Our meeting will start on 10 March at 5:30 pm with an exchange of
views with the President of the European Parliament. Our objective on
the first day is to focus on the situation in Ukraine, as well as on
defence and energy. On 11 March, our morning session and our working
lunch will be devoted to our new growth and investment model in the
presence of the President of the European Central Bank and the President
of the Eurogroup.
I look forward to seeing you in Versailles.
European Council
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