Geert Cockx began his speech by qualifying the role of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which consists of acting as an impartial intermediary to promote the work of the Council, seek consensus, and institutionally represent all member states. Furthermore, he highlighted the need for flexibility on the part of each Presidency to adapt to events and crises that may arise during his term.
In the specific context of the Belgian Presidency, Ambassador Cockx highlighted the close coordination between Belgium and Spain, pointing out the achievements made during the Spanish Presidency and the continuity in the progress of several files under the Belgian Presidency. He mentioned the closing of numerous files and significant advances in areas such as the reform of the electricity market, the Pact on Migration and Asylum, the regulation of digital platforms or the Artificial Intelligence Law.
Cockx went on to point out that the motto of the Belgian Presidency, Protect, Strengthen, Prepare, reflects the multiple crises that Europe is currently facing, with wars and economic, social and climatic challenges. Furthermore, he highlighted that today’s world is characterized by instability, strategic competition and security threats; Therefore, he urges strengthening European security and defense through greater cooperation to reinforce investment, capacity development and the construction of an integrated market.
Subsequently, Ambassador Cockx emphasized the six major groups of priorities identified in the work program of the Belgian Presidency, which include the defense of the rule of law and democracy, the strengthening of industrial competitiveness, the green and fair transition, the boosting the social and health agenda, the protection of citizens and borders, and the promotion of a global Europe.
Regarding short-term challenges, the ambassador mentioned the need to finalize and implement the European Green Deal, accelerate the energy transition, and address regional crises such as the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East. Likewise, he highlighted the importance of maintaining internal cohesion within the European Union and strengthening its role in the international arena.
Regarding the future agenda, Ambassador Cockx announced the adoption before the summer of a Strategic Agenda for the years 2024-2029, which will establish the priorities and working methods of the Union in the coming years. Likewise, he underlined Belgium’s commitment to supporting the enlargement process of the European Union, highlighting the importance of a stronger and more cohesive Europe in a changing world.
In the last block of the session, a debate took place, in which the participants asked some questions on topics such as the perception of the European Union towards the South; relations between the Union and Latin America; as well as the influence of the elections to the European Parliament on the development of the Belgian Presidency.
The enlargement of the EU and the accession of Ukraine, the control of funds granted to Ukraine, and the internal market and economic competition were also discussed. In addition, they talked about security and defense in the union; the fight against organized crime and terrorism; the rule of law within the EU; and, finally, on the social agenda of the Union.
Elena Ferro
INCIPE