Government of Austria

Policy topics Government of Austria is active on

What Government of Austria has said (80)

• 2026-06-16 “Now, of course, Austria is willing to make its contribution to a future oriented and affordable MFF, and that is precisely why, if we want to achieve acceptance across all countries, that we are seen to be managing the money of our citizens well and responsibly, we need modern, efficient and predictable structures. Our citizens are rightly expecting of us that we lead by example and are saving where we can. So it's about setting the right priorities. It's about assessing what's more and less important and where we really need an effective European Union. And what, on the other hand, should remain a national competence because that is where it belongs. We need to be able to mobilise private funds more easily and ensure that public money, the tax money, is used in a more targeted fashion. We have to not just discuss about the level of expenditure, but also the aims we're trying to achieve. We need to make sure that we have less bureaucracy, good framework conditions and certainly no additional taxation. We need to remember that the EU's success is not measured by the size of its budget, but is measured by its impact, measured by its actions, and without significant adjustments. This Negro box is still very far away from a landing zone. We need a realistic expenditure that reflects the budgetary realities in the member states. Of course, we will continue to play a constructive role in the upcoming negotiations. And Thomas, I can wish you the very best for your presidency in the upcoming semester and for the work to come.”
  Size of EU budget
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you very much, dear Thomas. It's kind of a preview to the next sessions. I will switch to German.Thank you. Commissioner. Cyprus presidency. Thank you very much. Especially to you, Marilena and your team. Thank you for all the efforts you've deployed over the last months, particularly to put together this Lego box on the MFF. It's really trying to square the circle here, trying to get all interests under one roof. It's almost impossible to present a solution at this stage of the negotiations that everyone will be able to go along with. Now let me start with some positives. We recognise that some of the elements in the current Lego box, such as the option to continue the contribution correction mechanism for Austria. Strengthening rule of law, compliance and the Excellency principle are good. However, you'll be surprised to hear that this text is still very far away from a compromise that we would be able to support. The cuts that amount to not even 2% are a drop in the ocean. The overall volume remains far too high. We are missing substantive cuts in the proposal. And just to highlight that, last week, the Austrian government presented its 2027 and 2028 budget to parliament, and that proposal contains some very tough consolidation measures and clear cuts in order to pave a way out of the excessive deficit procedure and in order to be in line with EU fiscal policies. And this is the measure that has to be applied to the union itself. We need to be credible as national governments. We are currently asking a lot of our citizens. Our citizens are having to accept a lot of very painful fiscal political decisions, and we cannot be seen to apply different standards at European level than we do at national level.”
  Size of EU budget
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you very much, Magdalena. We welcome that in all three legal acts, there have been significant progress. Nlp, the increased involvement of the regional level and strengthening the rule of law in global Europe. We see a strengthening of the role of the Council on the ECF. We see a strong focus on excellence and European added value, which is important because only that can ensure sustainable value chains. Um, Austria can support all three pgas. But I would also refer to our statement to the minutes on ECF, which I would like to ask to be added to the minutes. Thank you.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• “(18:31:58 – 18:32:14): different thing. The border procedures for the asylum, where they decide, if they, how do you say in English? Oh, I'm sorry. If they make a chance to get asylum or not. You know what I mean.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Thanks a lot. Muchas gracias, dear Chair. The commissioners, Dear colleagues, first of all, many thanks to the Spanish Presidency for the opportunity to address [00:01:00] the EU pharmaceutical package and its importance for industrial policy here in the Compact Council. We have all learned from the past years how important the availability of medicines and the reliable, competitive and innovative European pharmaceutical industry is for open strategic autonomy. This is also defined in the updated EU industrial strategy. I therefore consider it necessary that the EU pharmaceutical package is discussed from the perspective of health care, of [00:01:30] course, but also from that of industrial policy and global location competition. The factors of competitiveness, a reliable legal framework and an attractive policies for investments in research, development, innovation and production must be integral components of the design of this legislation. However, also emphasized that it is not the intention to anticipate the technical discussions in the Epsco Council with this [00:02:00] initiative by Germany and Austria even more. We want to work together constructively in the sense of complementarity between health and industrial policies. We are still well positioned in Europe in the area of the pharmaceutical industry. [00:02:14] This must remain so. Therefore, it is all the more important that the EU pharmaceutical package does not set any measures that hamper innovation and investment and create legal uncertainty that strategically weakens us as a business location, location, especially [00:02:30] in these difficult times. Regarding competitiveness. What is needed is a clear, predictable and globally competitive legal framework that actively promotes innovation, guarantees appropriate protection periods for the European pharmaceutical market and thus makes investment more attractive. The proposed incentives for innovation and security of supply should be discussed together with the potential addressees. Incentives should be unconditional or actively enforceable, but should not start with the reduction [00:03:00] of protection periods or introduce introduced hurdles. For example, we should discuss the reduction of the protection periods for intellectual property by 25% from 8 to 6 years, as provided for in the Commission's current draft. In any case, together with the sectors concerned. Therefore, I also ask the Spanish and the upcoming Belgian presidencies to take into account the strategic importance of the European pharmaceutical sector when planning the upcoming formal and informal combat [00:03:30] councils. Thanks a lot.”
  Pharma IPRs
• “President. Commissioner. Christoph. It's good to see that food security is very much at the top of Europe's agenda, and that agriculture is being recognized as a strategic sector. Farmers need to be able to have their income and their ability to produce as the very focus of our strategy, and I welcome that. But we need to ensure that competitiveness remains a priority in the global context as well, in order to ensure better crisis resilience. It is vital that we have an appropriate EU early warning system. And the Cap, as in the way it supports the Union, is vital as part of the European project. And so in the vision that point is acknowledged and to my mind that is of crucial importance and it is vital that we have tangible legal proposals and an appropriate budget putting that into practice. And in any event, you can certainly count on Austria's support when it comes to ensuring a resilient cap, combating problems in rural areas. And like Spain and others, I would like to underscore once again that when it comes to all cap issues addressed by the Council and the bodies, the fora which prepare it, they must have an opportunity to address all these issues as part of the process.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “(18:36:04 – 18:38:13): Well, first of all, there was a a full a 100% solidarity towards Ukraine. That's what we heard in the discussion. Of course, everyone, pointed it out, and and we will, of course, stick to that. We a 100%, support, support the Ukraine furthermore. And, and as we see Russia's brutal war of aggression, against Ukraine, reaching new heights, actually, we discussed a way forward. Yes. We have to do that. It has been 1 year to the day since we prolonged the temporary protection until March 2027. And, of course, we discussed it today, and the view was, I think if I got got it correctly, please correct me if I'm not. The view was that, we should prolong, the temporary protection. We should, of course, discuss it also also with the Ukrainians because it's it's important for us, to to hear the view of the Ukrainians, what they want also. So prolonging the the temporary protection, is key. And then there are different, different approaches. 1 of them, as you mentioned, is that we exclude, exclude men between 23 and and 60, the 1 in the conscription age. And that is also what the Ukrainians, want us to do. That was discussed as well, with some other other topics on that. So we will come up with a proposal. We listened very carefully to the the ministers today, to the member states today, and especially to those who are most affected. That was our approach, the ones most affected, you know, the Czech Republic, the Baltic States, Poland, Germany, Austria. So we really have to listen to them and, to hear their view. And we come up in the next weeks, with a with a new proposal, how we should, go further and what the way forward, is on the temporary protection. But the discussion was about prolonging it and maybe, having some changes in the scope. Also that was that's what we discussed.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Thank you. Chairman. [00:17:30] And thank you from the Austrian delegation to the Swedish and then the Spanish presidency for the very intensive work done on this important legislative proposal. Austria is in favor for as much transparency as possible regarding the origin of honey blends, and since the beginning of the negotiations, we have been in favor of an EU single compulsory [00:18:00] indication of the country of origin plus percentages, and therefore we very much welcome, uh, uh, the achievements of the Spanish presidency. And we support the negotiating mandate, uh, because we need to guarantee transparency for consumers. So thank you very much. And good luck to the Belgian presidency for the negotiations. Then. [00:18:30] And thank you for chairing the meetings in the last six months. Chair.”
  EU policy on country of origin food labelling
• “Thank you very much. I would like to thank the Dutch delegation as well for raising this very important topic of pilot fatigue. And I would certainly welcome the fact that we do discuss this within the context of the next EASA management board. I think we do need to tackle this problem heads on and and certainly we need to be able to restore this [00:02:00] strong safety and security culture. I also want to talk about the fact of that. We need to look at social sustainability within the aviation sector. High social conditions and standards need to be guaranteed for all staff, and we need to make sure that we safeguard these high standards and make sure they're not undermined in any way. So once again, we should look at the, uh, this is an opportunity to take social aspects more into account within the aviation [00:02:30] sector and to try to tackle things like social dumping more. Thank you.”
  EU policy on aviation safety
• “Thank you very much, chair. And thank you very much for all of the presidency's efforts and the work on the Non-paper as well. Unfortunately, there was no substantive discussion. So the situation is such that many of the concerns we raised before still remain today. We need to have a risk assessment in line with the precautionary principle, and we need to have mandatory labelling of GT1 products to guarantee consumers freedom of choice. Now, in addition, we know co-existence with GM free and organic production, and that runs counter to the objectives of the Green Deal. Austria also still has serious concerns about the impact of the patentability of Ncgs, in particular for small and medium sized breeding companies. In Austria's view, therefore, it is essential that the outstanding issues be addressed in detail before a negotiating mandate acceptable to all could be adopted. Thank you very much.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you. President. The Hungarian minister has already said that we landlocked states are hit by ocean issues. And particularly because we're concerned about climate stability and competitiveness. We are concerned especially about biodiversity. Now on the threats. The threats are well known. I'd like to mention a couple of them in Austria. Two. We have great love of fishing, and we wish to have environmentally friendly fishing in the country. Illegal and uncontrolled fishing must be tackled more harshly. And, uh, we must also protect the fishing stocks. Also, the, uh, diversity agreements must aim to prevent overfishing with strongly protected protected areas. Now, along the banks of the Danube, we mentioned under the Slovene Presidency that there is a source to sea approach, which means that fresh water The sources. Lakes and rivers should be considered as part of the ocean strategy. Sturgeon and other fish which are threatened in Austria's view, should be greater protected. Finally, we also need to avoid pollution of the seas by better waste processing, and for that, rapid transposition and implementation is key. Austria pleads for, uh, rapid implementation of the treaty. And last but not least, studies indicate that this year nine of the seven planetary boundaries have been transgressed, including those on ocean cleanliness, which is already jeopardized. Thank you.”
  Water pollution
• “Thank [00:25:00] you very much. The representation of women in political leadership positions is an important precondition and an important indicator for equality between men and women. Despite important progress, the representation of women in politics is not balanced. And as well as dismantling gender, stereotypes of more steps are necessary. We have a number [00:25:30] of different measures in Austria which are mentioned. In 2019, a bonus was introduced for a higher percentage of women in parliamentary clubs. Parliamentary groups, uh uh, the uh, if the percentage of women in the National Assembly or the Parliament is over 40%, then party funding is increased by 3%. Another example is that the Austrian Local Authorities Association has the Girls in Politics, a project which [00:26:00] we do, uh, um, which uh, together with the International Day of Girls and uh, on the 11th of October, girls between 6 and 18 years old will be spending time with male and female mayors for a day to break down traditional role models and gender stereotypes and to awaken their interest in politics. Another example of the activities of the funds to empower and promote women [00:26:30] and girls, the so-called Let's Empower Austria Fund, uh, that's been in existence since 2022, and the idea is to raise visibility of positive role models in 2023. An explorative study on the political participation of girls and young women was done on the main reasons for the current low participation of a young women, which named strategies [00:27:00] to change this. Uh. Female politicians are particularly affected by cyber violence and hate speech. A lot of them withdraw, uh, from public life altogether and political offices, and they also withdraw from digital spaces. And decisive, decisive action is needed. Austria is following a comprehensive program in the protection and prevention of [00:27:30] violence. And cyber violence is a priority, and measures to improve the legal situation of those affected have been taken, including the law. Hate on the internet and, uh, politics needs diversity of perspective and experience. We can only tackle the successfully the future challenges if we factor in the perspectives and needs of women and girls [00:28:00] and just. Is an important precondition and an important indicator for equality between men and women. Despite important progress, the representation of women in politics is not balanced. And as well as dismantling gender, stereotypes of more steps are necessary. We have a number of different measures in Austria which are mentioned. In 2019, a bonus was introduced for a higher percentage of women in parliamentary [00:00:30] clubs. Parliamentary groups, uh uh, the uh, if the percentage of women in the National Assembly or the Parliament is over 40%, then party funding is increased by 3%. Another example is that the Austrian Local Authorities Association has the Girls in Politics, a project which we do, uh, um, which uh, together with the International Day of Girls, uh, on [00:01:00] the 11th of October, girls between 6 and 18 years old will be spending time with male and female mayors for a day to break down traditional role models and gender stereotypes and to awaken their interest in politics. Another example of the activities of the funds to empower and promote women and girls, the so-called Let's Empower Austria Fund, uh, that's been in existence since 2022. [00:01:30] And the idea is to raise the visibility of positive role models in 2023. An explorative study on the political participation of girls and young women was done on the main reasons for the current low participation of a young women, which named strategies to change this.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• “Thank you very much. As several of my colleagues, I'd like to take this opportunity to remind [00:19:30] us all of our own targets. We want to improve air quality. And later, over lunch, we'll be talking about making goods transport more environmentally friendly in order to protect the health of our citizens. And I'm convinced that we have to maintain the level of ambition, and we're grateful for the challenges [00:20:00] that have been openly recognizes. But I'm firmly convinced that the vehicle industry has an important contribution to make to improving emissions. And I would call upon all colleagues to work together to find a compromise that will help us to maintain our level of ambition and not jeopardise the Green Deal. Thank you much for your.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Colleagues, when it comes to competitiveness, it's clearly a key question of our current time when we look at our growth. Europe is growing 1% US, 3%, China four, India 7%. And if we want to maintain our prosperity and our jobs. We need economic growth. So I would call upon us focusing and prioritizing Europe more in all of our discussions, that there be a pause to negotiation of any commission files that are not clearly contributing to additional competitiveness, jobs and stability in our economy. Now, in 2026, 111 commission proposals are being discussed in various settings, and I think we really need to prioritize those topics that are actually going to be of use to our economy. And the I A is exactly one of those instruments that we need to support. But I would call upon a concrete expansion for all of those key technologies where Europe is already a global leader and where European companies are leading globally. If I think of quantum data innovation, microelectronics, electronics, bio pharma, life science, um, processing, manufacturing, anything to do with clean tech and environmental technologies, there are many areas there, um, that are contained, but hydrogen is not fully there and um l e charging stations are not there.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• “The chairman. The Commissioner. Thank you very much for the comprehensive presentation of this important, uh, future oriented strategy. I very much welcome the strategy. It proactively addresses one of the key issues for agriculture without young people. Agriculture has no future. Without a strong cap. Agriculture has no prospects. I would like to emphasise that the concrete design of the strategy must be the responsibility of the Member States. Each member state has a different starting point and therefore needs to apply different levers. For example, in Austria, 23.4% of farmers are under 40 years of age. Thus, the Strategist's target of 24% has already been almost reached. Currently, Austria will continue to work proactively to maintain this positive trend. I would like to emphasize also that I very much welcome the continued high priority given to education, because only well trained farmers with the appropriate qualifications can make informed and sustainable business decisions. Finally, I would like to emphasise that all measures can ultimately only be implemented with a strong, integrated and adequately financed cap. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you for the climate crisis means that [00:13:00] extreme events are happening more and more often, particularly in the Alps, and we see that it's placing a burden on our infrastructure. Our infrastructure needs to become more resilient. All member states need to contribute to that. And doubtlessly there is a particular challenge in the Alps given the topography with natural borders. And that is why it's so important for us to coordinate. The most recent [00:13:30] events have shown us that we need good coordination, cross border and multimodal coordination. That's so important, particularly at operational level across the Alps and for different corridors. There are already different structures and working groups between the different ministers and the operators. Volker has pointed out that we already have a multitude of different governance approaches, [00:14:00] for example the simple alliance or the Zurich process. And I would propose these existing structures be given more life, uh, in order to coordinate at uh, multi-state level, for example, on planned infrastructure measures, uh, and [00:14:30] uh, agreeing on reactions to natural events, as we've seen in some of the border crossing points that Mateo has pointed out, so that we can react more rapidly. Thank you.”
  EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
• “President. Commissioner. The origin of food is important, increasingly important for many people in Europe, and extending the existing provisions as set out in the Farm to fork strategy and as announced by the Commission as early as 2022, is something that we consider to be absolutely necessary. We call on the existing and the incoming commission to swiftly submit [00:03:00] a draft proposal to extend the mandatory EU wide country of origin labelling for foods. The aim must be to have more transparency about the food on your plate, and also to make conscious choices in favour of strengthening regional and local farming. Thank you.”
  Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
• “Thank you very much and thank you to the Slovene delegation for this initiative, which we expressed his support for a long time. The European Union has been talked about revising the directive with the origin labeling. We're not sure when this was supposed to be happening. We'd like to know from the commission when they're intending to table this proposal, because on one hand Member States are being called on by the European Commission to take national initiatives with an eye to upcoming harmonisation. But nothing is happening to the EU. Labeling honey with origin would protect consumers against being misled. And it would also be mean that we could promote honey producers and they'd have fair competition.”
  Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
• “Ladies and gentlemen. Commissioner, in the long term, tourism can only be successful if economic strength and social acceptance are both considered. Therefore, we urgently need a legally sound solution for um for regional prices. If somebody lives in a region, works in tourism, making tourism possible, then those people also need to be able to access and afford the tourist attractions or the ski slopes in their region. So we call upon the commission to finally adapt the legal framework to ensure that home rates are made possible. Um, and we therefore support the Council conclusions. They are in line with the 2030 consumer agenda, where we already unanimously decided amongst all member states that there should be a legal possibility for home rates to be applied, and we're expecting the corresponding legal framework in the second half of this year to make sure that it is possible in future. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Uh thank you Stephanie. Uh, Australia is committed to work constructively towards the finalisation of the negotiations on the Digital Euro and the single currency package in due time. The quickly changing geopolitical environment has shown the need for more European strategic autonomy, and we think the digital Euro clearly is an essential building block in this regard. We need to ensure that privacy concerns of citizens are well addressed and financial stability is preserved. Therefore, we regard the forum discussion on the governance of the digital euros holding limit with institutional checks and balances as a step into the right direction. We support informed discussion on privacy matters and the free compensation model to reach a council position on key outstanding issues. Thank you.”
  Digital euro
• “Thanks, Madam President. The proposed directive addresses the prevention and combating of discrimination and essential European objective, which we fully support to ensure the effectiveness of these protections. People should be well informed about their rights in the event of discrimination and legal certainty must be ensured so that they can actually exercise these rights. Therefore, it is crucial that the existing legislation ensures legal certainty. [00:34:00] This requires clear and understandable legal provisions for victims of discrimination and those who support them. Terms like multiple discrimination and the new concept of intersectional discrimination need to be defined precisely. Both the meaning and the differences between these terms must be clear, especially to legal practitioners practitioners. Moreover, the provisions regarding the exemptions in the area of financial services still require more clarifications. A sectoral approach has already proven its worth [00:34:30] at EU level in the application of the principle of equal treatment, irrespective of racial or ethnic origin and in the area of equal treatment for women. At national level, we for instance, have had good experience with our law on equality for people with disabilities since 2006. Sectoral legal acts enable tailor made legal discrimination provisions. I would especially like to thank the Swedish Presidency for its [00:35:00] efforts and the work being done on this important directive. Thanks a lot.”
  EU policy on integration and ethnic, racial and religious discrimination
• “Thank you Ella. Austria welcomes the targets that are set out in the proposal emphatically and the reduction of waste from food and textiles, which are resource intensive areas. This is why we also support the textile producers look at the responsibility in the productions phase and are made aware of the lifecycle of their products and bear some of the costs of the waste phase. Yet overproduction of textiles must be addressed and must be taken on board. Fast fashion practises must be taken on board eco modelling, so that's a positive step as to the waste of foodstuffs. This is very important. It's not so much the reduction of waste per se, but avoiding edible waste for foodstuffs. So we would like to thank the Belgian council presidency for the work that they've done on the Compromise Text. We think it's moving in the right direction and is a good basis for further negotiations. However, I still do have some points where we think that there is a need for further discussion. For example, the discussion for food stuff, waste, usable and not usable, and the quotas for households and guest economy and the definition of social economy entities and also clear timeframes and timeframe frames that do need to be discussed. And we are aware that in future negotiations with the parliament, we think that improvements to these points can be searched for and I'm sure that Austrian future will be able to vote in favour of the compromise when we have worked on this. Thank you.”
  Ecodesign & durability
• “Okay. I think we can make a start. I think. Pay tribute to everybody's good humour. Okay. Austria, please. Thank you. Chairman. Commissioner. I'd like to thank you very much for all the effort that you've put into the 2040 climate objectives. These are very important things that we find in the compromise proposal. So a very big thank you to the presidency for Austria, what's particularly important is to have a strong, uh, environment policy and strong objectives. And that's why we've reached this compromise proposal. In addition to that, let me mention the certificates. The emission certificates, the allowances and what we have established for 2034. And I think also this ties in with what we have done for 2026. They should be included in the text in my view. And then as of 2028, there will be another extension measure for these certificates. And we have a statement that we'll add to the minutes. Now as for nuclear policy, we agree that the technological neutrality objective allied with. Uh carbonization. We are against including that in the text.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you very much, chairman. And we'd like to wish all the best to the new commissioner on the directive. We basically support the objective of the directive to boost road safety. And we support the general approach today. As far as Austria is concerned, there are some questions left open, such as the lack of consideration of the country of residence when it comes to the directive system. We would prefer a simpler and more practical solution And when it comes to implementation, there is this issue of the extra burden as far as the citizens are concerned. So we do hope there will be some improvements coming in during the Trilogues. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you very much, chairman. Austria has long called for a revision of transport rules. And so we welcome the proposal. It's a good step in the right direction. However, there are still some adjustments that need to be made. And there's room for further discussion with a view to better implementation. We need a clear division of responsibilities during transport or when it comes to the use of traces. Austria particularly welcomes attempts to move towards digitalisation. We also welcome the reintroduction of inside temperature measurements to improve animal welfare, and we will continue to make a constructive contribution, to make progress quickly and make improvements to animal welfare. Thank you very much.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you very much Chair, esteemed colleagues. In Austria, seventy-five percent of the students of the secondary education do opt for vocational training. Therefore, VETs in Austria, especially when compared to the European level, has a very decisive role. It is well developed, it is varied, and it does focus on hands-on experience. A good VET allows all people who finish high school great gateway into the job market and they lead to low youth unemployment rates in Austria. The current challenges, however, are represented by green and digital transformation and that's why we would need to look at flexible working hours. When it comes to basic competencies and transversal skills, these are essential. When it comes to training successes, team spirit, problem solving, communication, and openness to learning are skills which are integrated de facto in these schemes. When it comes to the current Austrian government for a program between 2025-2029, there are three pillars for the skilled and job strategy. The first one is to look at the increase of VAT. The third is a streamlined access to international skilled workers and the overall VET skills. It is very important to ensure low thresholds when it comes to these skills and increase the job market. When it comes to equal qualifications, do range to different offers and at the same time in our strip we do invest in initiatives to ensure that there is an interest among girls when it comes to STEMs. When it comes to the STEM 2025 strategy, we promote STEM talents across the entire chain by implementing and developing networks, by designating scientific ambassadors, and by also developing the programs in the STEM sector. Mentoring programs do often insight into the STEM world and the female women workers also help overcome gender inequality. Austria has always been successful in these matters when it comes to promoting STEM. It has to start right from the start, especially when it comes to primary schools and nursery schools where we have already included some classes relating to STEM for women and young girls to ensure that they can be more interested in STEM professions in the future. Thank you very much for your attention.”
  Focus of EU policy on education (shaping workers vs citizens)
• “Thank you. Chair and Commissioner. Austria welcomes the efforts made to reach a full agreement between the EU and the Ukraine. Of course, we are going to have to scrutinise the full outcome of the negotiations in detail. We must be guided by the need to protect our products and to safeguard the unity of the internal market. Also, quotas in sensible, sensitive agrifood areas like honey are going to have to be open to discussion. They could really lay heavily on the sector and the internal market if we're not careful for the mid to long term, we mustn't have distortions to the market. And also our high agricultural production standards must not be ignored by Ukraine. We need a surveillance system and a protection clause, including measures, measures and monitoring procedures.”
  Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports
• “Chairman Chislov Commissioner Christoph, colleagues, first of all, let me say thank you very much indeed for your kind words at my renomination. I'm very pleased to be a member again of this group and to talk about the important challenges that we face in EU agriculture. The vision for agriculture and food has arrived just at the right time, and it really tackles just the right topics as well. It's very good to see, Christoph, that you and your services have managed to come up with an excellent basis for the medium term design of a resilient and competitive agricultural sector in the EU. Food security is quite rightly, a key priority for the EU. The document sets out the key ways to meet the multitude of challenges that we face, first of all, promoting entrepreneurship and making sure that we have economically sound businesses and farms. Economic development in the regions is absolutely crucial as well. And thirdly, a sustainable approach to nature when it comes to competitiveness and to the economy, in order to make sure that we have a successful future, what we need is young and innovative farmers who run their farms with confidence and courage, and it is up to us to provide attractive and stable conditions for them to be able to do that.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Austria [00:40:00] President. In principle, we welcome the initiatives outlined by the Commission and in the letter of Intent. Let me highlight just three issues. First one is enlargement. It is very positive that President von der Leyen's State of the Union speech clearly stated that the future of the Western Balkan countries lie within the EU. But now we look forward to the announced pre enlargement reforms and policy reviews. The second point is migration. It was very positive in this regard [00:40:30] that the Commission's announcement that the Commission announced to update the legal framework and strengthen cooperation to fight the smuggling of migrants. We also welcomed that President von der Leyen emphasised the importance to swiftly finalize work on the Migration and Asylum Pact, as well as work on partnerships with third countries. However, however, we also need to put a stronger focus on implementation. The Tunisia deal has to be filled with life. The [00:41:00] substantial financial means promised for EU border protection from the EU budget have to be disbursed and we are still waiting for concrete, out-of-the-box proposals for enhanced cooperation with safe third countries, as announced by the President in her letter before the last European Council. And finally, my third point. I want to reaffirm our support for Ukraine in line with the specific character of our security and defence policy.Thank you very [00:41:30] much.”
  Asylum & border control · EU enlargement
• “Thank you very much, president. On the point raised by Portugal. We too recognize the difficult [00:22:30] situation facing the fishing industry in Europe. In order to cushion the impact of these crises. We think that besides NFF, which was addressed by Portugal, other instruments should be investigated. Fortunately, the fishery and aquaculture industry in Austria is characterized by a high degree of resilience and at the moment that does not require any crisis measures. The Austria MFA program is able to ensure [00:23:00] the resilience on the economic viability of the sector, without additional measures being required. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “(18:41:37 – 18:42:38): My as my Greek is nonexisting, I didn't I didn't get that in the beginning. But I'm very happy, of course, to, to say a few words. First of all, the Cyprus accession, to the Schengen era would be a significant step, of course, forward, for the European Union as a as a whole. And our primary focus as a as a commission is on on ensuring that Cyprus, meets the the the high Schengen standards, of course. So therefore, we evaluated the the situation in Cyprus, and we'll we will present the report soon. But to make that clear, it's the decision when and and how Cyprus joins the the Schengen Area lies within the council, not within the commission. So, there's been a lot of progress, and, thanks very much for the for the good progress and for the good cooperation. It would be, as I said, a significant step, of course. Thank you.”
  Enlargement of Schengen area
• “We have to look at direct supplies and limit the risk from third countries, and look at resources that are also available in the EU. We must also look at our suppliers from Canada, from Canada and New Zealand. We also have high risk countries. We need to look at those and have a list where we can probably include all OECD countries. List of safe countries and this list could be updated by the Commission. We can also look at the concerns of our largest trading partners as regards supply trains. We also need to ban gold plating in transposition where possible. Companies need simplification and planning certainty. What they do not need are 27 different implementations and executions of the Supply Chain directive. We need particular protection for SMEs and we need to avoid large companies simply passing on their reporting duties to smaller companies. This, uh, there is a part in the legislation which prevents reporting duties being passed on down the supply chains. We do have to ensure that all this is implemented speedily. Thank you.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “Thank you very much, chair. We support the Swedish initiative here to swiftly improve EU animal welfare legislation. Animal welfare is of major concern to people in the EU as demonstrated by successful citizens initiatives in the past. We share the view that future rules should be based on up to date scientific knowledge and on technological progress. We would call for a step by step approach as a matter of priority. Proposals for previously unregulated animal species such as fattening turkeys, fattening cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats and Rabbits should be submitted quickly, and the same goes for proposals on labeling. At the same time, we also need to look at revising existing rules. Now, national and regional circumstances must be sufficiently taken into account, in particular with regard to the necessary transitional periods, to avoid putting too much of a burden on the agricultural sector. Like Sweden, we also believe it's essential that new animal welfare legislation sets out high standards for animal welfare, for food safety and for the security of its supply as well, while at the same time meeting the needs of consumers and ensuring the competitiveness of domestic agriculture through harmonisation within the EU. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “Thank you very much. President, Commissioner, colleagues, I is something that is going to change our world in the long term. We don't yet know how exactly the world is going to change, [00:03:30] but it's certainly underway already. So I would really like to thank you for giving us the opportunity to have this exchange at the European level, an exchange on such a cross-sectoral topic. I think there are two areas in particular where that we need to focus on in terms of taking action. On the one hand, there's huge potential when it comes to creation within the CSS as well as communicating that works, but at the same time breaking down barriers that exist. And we need to make [00:04:00] sure that the requisite skills needed for the sector are there and are developed. At the same time in Austria. Since 2021, we have a fair pay and fairness process which is ongoing. So we're looking at newly developing technologies there, including AI and the way we can create new instruments which might be needed in order to make sure that creative work is fairly and properly remunerated. And that really is something that [00:04:30] I think is really important that creatives can make a living off of their work, despite any changes to the conditions or other developments. So in the coming few months in Austria, we are going to be really honing in on this topic. First and foremost, we're going to have an in-depth dialogue with stakeholders from the CS, and that will include a high level conference that's going to take place in June. Now, what's of key [00:05:00] importance here is that when it comes to this topic, I think we need to approach it from with a positive mindset. I don't think it's going to benefit anybody if we approach it with fear. I think we need to make sure that the sector is aware of the possibilities and opportunities that AI and new technologies present, and that they can make use of them. So we're going to work on developing a funding program, which will focus on the use [00:05:30] of AI in the cultural and creative sector. So here we're going to be developing and funding innovative projects put forward by creatives and cultural institutions. And we'll also going to be able to to to fund further development of skills and training programs. And that funding program is going to be started in the summer. When it comes to the European level, we welcome the fact that there has been a focus placed and an emphasis placed on digital [00:06:00] skills within the funding programs of the European Commission. Uh, continuous work on the continued work on the use of AI and cultural content is really something that should be the order of the day these days, the proper implementation of the AI act and obligations under copyright law, as well as transparency obligations, are really important when it comes to the data being used, and important measures have [00:06:30] been taken already when it comes to the AI act and the field in general. In order to be able to combat the risks that exist for the CS. So it's important that we look at further steps that we could take, analyze what we could do. And I think instruments in the area of copyright law would be really crucial here. Our goal should be fair remuneration of creatives that that's ensured for the future too, because only then will I actually be able to enhance human creativity. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Yes. I too would like to extend my sincere condolences to France, [00:21:30] Belgium and Sweden at this juncture and a big thank you to the Commission for their initiative. And also, I'd like to thank the presidency for all their hard work on what is such an important topic so that we can make headway. I think we all agree that the initiative to protect our children is one of the most important roles that we have, and I would like to echo the comments made by Germany, France and others in that we do need to place more of an obligation on providers. A great deal has already been done, [00:22:00] but we still really need to work hard to take this forward, and I'm sure we will succeed in creating a basic regulation, and we must succeed in that endeavor. And I will certainly do my utmost to bring it about. Thank you.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Thank you, chair. This is an ideal moment for today's discussion to take a fresh look at the priorities for the new working plan for culture before negotiations get underway. In Austria's view, this plan is the key strategic and operational instrument that the council has in the realm of EU culture policy. On regard regard as regards to the cultural projects of the moment, we see challenges for the coming 4 years, and we wish to tackle these challenges. First and foremost, improved working conditions for cultural creators. Key priorities there would be fair pay, social security, and, gender equality and, opposing misuse of people. We've tackled these themes in the working parties with other ministries and also with the representations of the cultural secretariat. Now cultural rights are fundamental rights. They are a pillar of democracy and civil society. Cultural participants have their individual well-being to benefit from, but they also have the contribution to society. So we need a conscious focus on youth and disadvantaged groups. New forms of access and participation must be given. What's relevant here is cultural education, transmission, and competencies. AI is having significant effects on what culture as it were produces. Cons consumers of cultural products need to be retained, and producers need to be able to live make a living from their work. AI gives challenges which needs differentiated approaches, and various cultural sectors are differently affected. Particularly important is, transparency and authorial or copyright matters. There is interplay here with the commission, and we are glad that many of the current working plans of the culture, of of the council are also in the commission's plans and documents. We look forward to bundling resources here, talking to the institutions together to boost the role of EU in culture. The work plan is essentially a flexible policy tool. It can be adapted as required. And we look forward to the presidency laying the focus on important issues, whether it be pandemic issues or the war in war in Ukraine. This needs to be continue continue to be possible to tweak the plan. In any case, we are glad that the negotiations on the new work done are getting underway, and we assure you of our engagement. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you, Madam Chair. The Vice President. Dear Commissioner, Dear colleagues, I would like to thank the Presidency for the text and the work done in the last month. Of course, tourism is of high importance in Austria, and we have a long tradition in the field of private accommodation rentals for tourists. Around two thirds of the Austrian accommodation providers are private. Even if the commercial enterprises, of course, offer considerably more beds. In the last decade, short term accommodation rentals have rapidly gained in importance, notably due to the large number of online booking platforms. This has brought advantages to both guests and hosts as well as for tourism regions in general. At the same time, it also has created challenges. We therefore welcome that the regulation will address some of these challenges in the future. Primarily, this concerns transparency. Authorities need to know who the hosts are and where the units are. Only then we can ensure that existing rules will be followed and effective measures can be taken if needed, and only then a level playing field can be created in the tourism ecosystem. It is also important that data which are transmitted by platforms, can be used in the best possible way and efficiently, both by the authorities for policymaking and enforcement purposes as well as for statistical objectives. For Austria, it was essential that the text provides sufficient flexibility and margin for the implementation without going away from the general aim of the proposal. Consequently, Austria welcomes the general approach. Thanks a lot.”
  Liability for online marketplaces
• “The Austrian initiative at that point got 20 member states to support it, so we are looking forward to a renewed focus on this initiative. As far as I'm concerned, it's full support. Finally, one more thing. In the livestock strategy, it's crucial to take into account, on the one hand, high welfare animal welfare standards and on the other, the competitiveness of livestock farms. Livestock farming plays a vital role in creating added value in the regions. Given current regulatory developments, especially the Industrial Emissions Directive and the application of livestock units. We are seeing disproportionate costs for investment on family farms. I therefore urge you that thresholds be adapted to economic reality and to be raised to at least 560 to 600 L U. We think that there should be a general exemption from the Industrial Emissions Directive for all organic farms, not just poultry farms. Kristoff, I also trust that you will support us in the commission. Yes, to climate protection, but not at the expense of disproportionate burdens on small scale farming. May I finally stress once again that strategies cannot replace the responsibility we have, that the cap be a policy that's in its own right and is able to generate stable farm incomes. Crisis tools can mitigate problems, but we must avoid a budget for agriculture that is consistently too small. We need to focus on this issue in the ongoing negotiations. Negotiations on post 2027 cap. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers · Agricultural funding
• “And thank [00:32:00] you. And a big welcome to you, Ernest. To Martina, to Ileana as well. Art and culture make a unique contribution to the development of our society, and artistic work helps our societies and strengthens our very democracies. Arts and cultural culture don't just deserve more recognition, but also fair compensation and guaranteed social security. We often talk about the role [00:32:30] that culture plays, and all of the various different things that tie in that don't fall under our direct competence and which are difficult, therefore, to regulate. So we need to work together at various different levels involving all of the stakeholders at national and European level, but also at the level of those who actually represent the sectors, the social partners and all of the stakeholders involved. In Austria, we have a clear political acknowledgment of more fairness, and we had three [00:33:00] years of intensive exchange with stakeholders from the cultural sector, with the Bundeslander as well as our towns and communities. And last year all came together to put forward a unsign, a fair pay strategy. We have made significant funds available in order to guarantee fair pay. So what have we managed to achieve in concrete terms? Well, up to 2024, the Federal Ministry for culture. We'll [00:33:30] give an additional €24.5 million and make that available. In order to make fair pay and fair compensation available to artists and cultural professionals. We also have increased awareness of the working conditions of artists and cultural professionals. We've tried to align the various different programs better and ensure that they're more consistent with each other. We have thresholds in place as well that have been put forward by the sector itself. [00:34:00] In terms of minimum requirements. Support for the sector is also something we need to address in terms of the developments in AI, it will become increasingly more important. We can't deny that AI is going to affect the various different parts of the cultural sector, and this can be done in various different innovative and interesting ways. But we need to have a framework in place which makes sure that the people who [00:34:30] work in the field continue to earn money as they deserve to do from their work. We have already talked about copyright and the fact that we need proper regulation there. We cannot go beyond what we're actually striving for here and prevent future opportunities and take those away from the professionals at the European level. Then coming to your second question, I think there are a number of good proposals that have been put forward by the EU expert [00:35:00] Group and by the European Parliament. They're all on the table now. We're continuing to support the promotion of fair pay in all of the EU cultural support programmes. We need to take a look at now at what proposals can actually be implemented and where there's need for room for improvement. It's clear that the various different systems in the member states need to be taken into account, and we can't have a one size fits all proposal, but perhaps we can have a common objective and ensure a fair process for the cultural sector in Europe. [00:35:30] Fair pay, fair contracts. Fair collective agreements should be the standard, should be the status quo. This won't just help the artists and professionals themselves. It will help cultural diversity in Europe too. And at the end of the day, our democratic freedoms as well as Claudia has pointed out to you. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you very much, president. Thank you. Claudia. Thank you for taking [00:25:00] this initiative. We have had a lot of conversations about this before, and I would agree with you entirely. Today's debate just showed how important exchange and discussion at European level is. And support for Ukraine also shows that cultural policy at the EU level is very important and should continue to be so into the future. And in Austria we are making [00:25:30] that quite clear. We have Battishill, which is a European Capital of Culture this year, and it's really highlighting how important EU policy is. It really reflects its importance and it's great to see. And I think these days in particular, it's important that we continue to support cultural policy as much as possible. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “(18:43:48 – 18:44:43): What was the sentiment? I have to ask my colleagues, but the sentiment was, of course, that there is an unwavering support to the Ukraine. That's that's the first thing. The second thing is that everyone agreed that we need a way forward. Obviously, '27 March 27 is tomorrow almost, so we have to be, we have to be quick, on that. And the third, thing was the the third sentiment is that we were listening very carefully, to to all the member states and that we are coming out with a, with a suggestion, in the next, in the next weeks to come. The sentiment, yeah, it's about prolonging, of course, and it's about making, changes to the to the scope. But I'm not going into detail. Please wait for, for our, for our suggestion, in in a couple of weeks' time. Thank you.”
  EU-Ukraine relations
• “(18:25:25 – 18:31:20): Thank you very much. And, let me also start with, saying thank you to, to the presidency, Kosel and, Nicolas. Thanks very good very much for the great cooperation we had. Very successful. Nicolas, you just mentioned the the last our last success this, Monday, the return regulation. That was really something. And as you mentioned, it was the the last missing piece actually of the the big migration, reform. And we are moving, forward very well actually in this huge migration reform. The it seems that every council meeting, we have delivered new new reforms, actually. And also, this is true for today. As you said, on Monday, we agreed, on on swifter, on simpler, on, more efficient rules also for for returns. So this is all about bringing our European house in order. That's what we are we are doing. And to this point, we are on on the final stretch now on of the implementation of the pact. And, this is a key element, I would say, of our, reform together with the entry exit system. You were mentioning that, because, together with the return regulation, together also with the safe third country concept, safe country of origin, list. So the main pillars are in place. And just to mention, because you mentioned the entry exit system, this is really something, incredibly important for the security of the European Union. We have seen 90,000,000 registrations, entries and exits, in the in the last, in the last months. That's 2,000,000 a week. 2,000,000 registrations a week. That's quite something. And what is also important on a from a secure security perspective is that we had, over 38,000 refusals of people trying to get into the European Union with false documents, fraud documents. And then that also includes about thousand people, who were refused, who actually post a security threat to the European Union. And then on the implementation part, the packed implementation part, the national legislations have mostly be, adopted. The the border procedure capacity, the screening in most member states has progressed significantly, I would say. But, of course, there is, more work to do, definitely, until the very end. This is not the the finishing line, I would say, in the June 12. Next week is not the finishing line. It's the start, actually, of, of the new system. So the reforms do not stop on the June 12. They they come actually into, into application. A few words on returns maybe because that is really a success story. Thank you again for this great cooperation, and the the presidency, was able to to close it, last Monday. And with this regulation, mean, you I'm sure you know about the key elements, of course. We were discussing that Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday. We have clear obligations for for individuals subject to return decisions. We have a stronger a stronger cooperation mechanism also, between the member states. And we have also stricter rules for, individuals, posing a security, threat. I was mentioning that before. And then, of course, also the possibility, of return hops outside the European Union. After the the summer, and that's, that's sort of the the way ahead, we will also, propose a new frontex mandate. So further to further increase also the the support, to member states and to make sure that that the return decisions actually lead to to actual returns then at the end of end of the day. We were also talking about the external dimension. This is also key because the reforms we are doing is about the, as I mentioned before, about the European house, about our reforms, but now it's about the external dimension as well. And we discussed that today. Our focus has shifted or has to shift also to this, area, as we see that our comprehensive approach, leads actually to results. And that's the good, that's the good good message. Illegal crossings at our external borders have, decreased by 55% in the last 2 years, and by another 40% this year already. Nearly every route actually shows, declining figures in in the first months also of 2026. Just to to give you an example or some examples, arrivals from Turkey to the Aegean Islands, have decreased by 67%. On the Central Med route, illegal border crossings are down by 46%. English channels, minus of 48%. So this is very, promising and is going in the right direction. That's why we have to focus on the external dimension, even more. And talking about the external dimension, we will strengthen cooperation with, partner countries, third countries. Migration cooperation in my view and in our view, must be linked more closely to to the leverage we have, to visa policy, to trade policy, development assistance, also. I think I'll leave it there and, leave it to the question. That was too long anyway. Thank you very much. Thank you, commissioner. I will now open the floor to question. I will start with Yolanda, and then I'll move to Mark.”
  Asylum & border control
• “(18:32:15 – 18:33:36): We we have to be precise because, we were we are talking about the if we talk about the the border procedure, that's the entry exit system. But the other thing is the asylum procedures at the external borders. Yes. Yeah. That's what you took. Okay. That's a different a different story. Well, what do I do? We we, we know and we do everything to support the member states that they are ready to do the border procedures well, the asylum procedures. I mix it up as well myself. The asylum procedures, at the external borders, and we have quite quite clear rules, actually. We have the safe country of origin list, for instance, which helps to, to make it more efficient quicker also. And altogether, the numbers are going down. That's the the positive thing. So the the pressure on the borders, are not as big as they as they used to be. So we are supporting the member states. The member states are are ready. We are almost there. Of course, not everything will work perfectly a 100% well, on the very first day. Of course not. I mean, we have to be realistic. Of course, That's what we said before. It's the start of the, of the whole of the whole system. But, we're here to support the member states. There are there the infrastructure is there. The member states, seem to be ready.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Thank you very much, chair. And thank you, Commission for bringing forward this proposal. We welcome the publication of the two animal welfare regulations. This will allow us to review the rules on the transport of animals and on and create rules for dogs and cats. When it comes to proposals to change the rules for animals, for fur production and a ban thereon, we can support. It's been said many times the protection, animal protection and welfare during transport is very important in Austria and Europe. Changes to the existing European rules for animal protection during transport is urgently needed, and has been called for by Austria for many years. Austria already has comparatively high animal welfare standards during transport, so we can support the Commission's proposals for further improvements at the European level. The draft with the new rules. On the well being and traceability of dogs and cats, as well as standards [00:30:30] for breeding. Is also an important topic for Austria. Austria in the past has already called for a ban on the breeding of animals for fur and continues to do so. We will take constructive part in these discussions. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “Ladies and gentlemen, the most urgent question of our time is industrial resilience. And it's clear that we want the steel, the chemicals and the car industries in Europe to remain in Europe. We welcome everything that's in the action plans. But let me say quite honestly, it's going to become more and more difficult when we talk to those who are working in the industry and when we talk to entrepreneurs in these industries to explain what it is we're actually doing. Just describing the problems is no longer sufficient. We now need to move to an implementation phase. Thanks, therefore, to the Commission for the fact they have acknowledged how urgent this is. We're talking perhaps about too many topics we need to concentrate on. What are the really decisive questions for our industry? Firstly, we now need to make the most of the USA position of weakness because of the Supreme Court judgment. When it comes to the 50% tariffs on aluminium and steel. If we don't have a perspective on that, then we can't, uh, lengthen the tariff deal. Also, we need to reform the ETS and the free certificates, as long as there's no new decision as to how we're going to tackle Cbam, then we cannot allow the free certificates to run out. The system of free ETS certificates has become. A program for Europe to become less competitiveness. So I think that, um, we need to stop pushing industry out of Europe by doing this.”
  Carbon leakage support
• “Thank you very much, president. Austria is in favor of efficient use of fertilizer. That's an important concern for us. We've achieved a great deal already, particularly by having a balanced combination of legal and voluntary measures, processing [00:15:30] and sales of organic fertilizers, we believe should not. The go against extensive animal husbandry. Decoupling animal production from extensive production can have a positive effect on the environment, particularly for countries with small scale farming such as Austria. We therefore have some doubts. Processing organic fertilizer for [00:16:00] renewable fertilizer is first and foremost an option for large farms and lands with very extensive animal husbandry. We welcome the planned review of the Nitrate Directive, but we don't want to pre-empt what the outcome will be of that review. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “(18:34:25 – 18:35:28): Well, also here, have to to, stick to the facts. What what what what was our job? As a commission, our job was to have the legal basis, for the return hubs. That's what the member states asked us to do, and that's what we delivered in the return regulation, on Monday. So the legal basis is there, and now it's, up to the member states to negotiate with third countries. Will it work? Well, I don't know. We have to ask The Netherlands and the the the Germans or the ones who who want want to have it. That's a voluntary a voluntary thing. For us, it was, important to have the the rules, to have the the legislation, which is there now with the new return regulation. And the the return hubs is 1 of the things which comes into force right away. That was also discussed on on Monday. And, the return hubs are part of this, so we are ready. And now it's, up to the member states to negotiate that with third countries. Thank you, commissioner. Nicholas, please.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Yes. Thank you very much, chairman. Now, a circular Of economy and efficient use of fertilizer is very important, as Austin sees it. We have to have a good combination of compulsory and voluntary measures in order to achieve a great deal. We've already done a great deal. Separating livestock farming from land can have a harmful impact on the environment and Austria. I would like to emphasize that we take a critical view of producing renewable from organic fertilizer, and then marketing it, because it means moving away from a sustainable approach to land based livestock farming, producing renewable from organic fertilizers to make making renewable, therefore, is very much an option for large farms and regions with very intensive livestock farming. Now for farm for member states like Austria with small farms, it's important to have some misgivings because this can have an impact on our competitiveness. Austria fundamentally welcomes the fact that the proposed amendment to the Nitrates directive is going to address the question of renewal. However, the current proposal does not, uh, please us very much for the reasons I've already given. Furthermore, we have to await the outcome of the revision of the Nitrates Directive and see what they come up with. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “And that means that we need to provide them with appropriate living standards and fair income. And there is certainly work to be done in this area. The EU needs to think about its trade with third countries, and make sure that we are ensuring a level playing field for farmers, and therefore I fully support a strengthened approach to reciprocal high standards when it comes to production standards for animal welfare and plant protection products. We need to think also about residue controls on imports. And here again, we must make sure we ensure a level playing field. Moving on to rural development now the agriculture is a crucial is a crucial factor for the economy and jobs in rural areas. And therefore, I expressly welcome our focus on sustainable rural development and the significance of agriculture in disadvantaged areas. A sustainable approach to nature is. My next point is absolutely clear that nature is the basis for life and health. We must protect it. Soil protection, water protection and environmental and climate protection are important to requirements. In order to make sure that we have an effective and competitive farming, we need to make sure that necessary and affordable inputs are available. Here, we must look at inadequacies and limitations of the current legal framework when it comes to authorising active substances and plant protection products, and analyse what's going wrong.”
  Pesticides & trade
• “Many thanks. The president. We would also like to thank you very much indeed for this information. As regards the output from the seminar, we do very much welcome the negotiations which have been started in Council as regards the EU regulation [00:08:30] protecting dogs and cats and their traceability. In addition, for some time now, Austria has wanted the rules on animal transport to be further sharpened and we will participate actively in discussions. We would also like to echo the Dutch appeal. I would like to ask the Commission to ensure that the animal protection proposals, as regards uh, animals for farming, as well as the slaughter of animals and labelling [00:09:00] could be presented as soon as possible.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “Thank you to the presidency for this useful exchange on the strategic dialogue, on the future of the cap that is forthcoming. [00:47:00] We think that it is due time that the College of Commissioners finally puts agriculture at the heart of the strategic agenda. This has only happened at the end of a series of strategic challenges. And it is time we talk about a cap reform and look at the challenges of the green deals and the increased [00:47:30] input costs. This dialogue could have begun earlier because there are it is the farmers which ensure that Europe is fed on a daily basis. We look forward to the initiatives that the Belgian presidency has planned in this connection, and looking to a future common agricultural policy. The future of agriculture and the perspectives for agriculture are close to the hearts in [00:48:00] Austria, and we have begun a process in Austria which has broad participation of stakeholders and, uh, scientists. And looking at the changes to be brought about in Austrian agriculture and in rural development. This is our mission and these are our priorities. And these will be fed into the Strategic Dialogue. Of course, it is absolutely crucial [00:48:30] that all the services provided and carried out by farmers remain central to the discussions. The challenges for our farmers are enormous, enormous. They, um, work on food security for Europe, and there are huge challenges facing them. And, uh, we have climate and environmental protection to work in there, too. And if we look at the current framework for European [00:49:00] farming, we need to have something that is more tailored. The conclusions from the dialogue must focus on agriculture and look at country specific topographies and accept these, and come up with plans that are tailored for these. This must bring on board agricultural sustainability. It's important that in future we look at, uh, the challenges [00:49:30] and how we can continue to guarantee food security. Voluntary agricultural measures are a central element. It's close to our hearts. It's important to me that farmers are helped. They are guided, uh, as they are also facing societal challenges. Continuity and stability in the agricultural quality also means budgetary stability and continuity. These two must go hand [00:50:00] in hand in order to be able to contribute to these challenges. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “No, thank you so much, Mr. Chair. Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, I would like to thank the presidency for its work so far and for for also this very important discussion. If we aim to achieve an agreement on the content of Horizon Europe in May, we need to know on which remaining issues. We will have to focus until the council in May. So some things are already very clear. For example, the shared view on the overall pillar structure of Horizon Europe, the need for simplification, the importance of interdisciplinarity and of social sciences and humanities, as well as the instrument of pillar one. Austria supports the areas for research under the society. Part of pillar two, in particular fostering democratic, culturally diverse, socially just, secure and peaceful societies. But there are still open questions. For example, how the linkage between Horizon Europe and the ECF can be useful for everybody. We support a coherent bridge between the ECF and Horizon Europe on partnerships. Important questions remain concerning their implementation. A key issue for Austria is that voting rights of partners shall not be proportional to their financial contribution, because this would clearly disadvantage smaller countries. We still do not see the areas of health, public health and health systems research included in the society part of pillar two, and this is also very important for us.”
  Research priorities within the EU
• “Chair. Thank you very much. We also share France's concerns and agree that the competitiveness of the European chemicals industry must be improved urgently. Chemicals law, particularly in recent years, has become a complex web of legislation which is very difficult for the industry. Much of it is useful and leads to greater safety of chemicals and other groups of products. But some of that legislation also goes hand in hand with increased administrative burden. Therefore, we welcome the announcement by the Commission, in particular relating to reach to move forward with simplification measures. From this perspective, we think that it would be a good idea to start with reviews of existing legislation before thinking about any new legislation. Thank you.”
  Classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals
• “Thank you very much, chair. The best of luck from us as well. To you, Commissioner, very high on your new role on the proposals for these regulations. I think through intensive work that took place in the council, significant improvements were made. But there are still issues that need to be addressed on P or M firstly, the The introduction of this v q assessment. In some cases it's not. It's impractical. The resulting difficult conditions for the authorization of varieties of vegetables, fruit and wine could have a negative impact on product variety and on markets. The application of the official controls regulation must, under no circumstances, place an excessive burden on small and medium sized enterprises. Then on F or M. I think this is something that Germany just raised there. Austria has opposed inclusion in the OCR and together with Germany and Spain, we have put we've put forward an alternative proposal. That proposal is based on the existing, well-functioning control system that we currently have. Even partial application of the official controls Regulation would lead to a disproportionate administrative and financial burden for authorities and for operators as well. Now, Australia will continue to engage constructively in the work of the council. Thank you very much.”
  Sustainable use of seeds in EU policy
• “Dear Madam Chair and dear Commissioner, I would like to thank you for the presentation of the report, and I'm glad to have this opportunity to express views on the content and the implementation of the UTP directive. On the first question. It's quite clear to us that the legal form should remain a directive. Flexibility in terms of greater harmonisation is available with regard to legal certainty, especially. There's some scope for that in cross-border trade and enforceability of the rules. However, we oppose full harmonisation. The distinction between grey practices and black practices should be maintained also for better enforcement and reduction of the fear factor we should consider how to tackle circumvention of the directive, and we should consider the possibility of a compensation system for suppliers who are affected by UTP. We also propose that we should examine whether, in addition to existing protection against super powerful buyers, we might not also should introduce measures to protect farms against overmighty global suppliers in the text of the directive. Now on to the second question concerning passing on of costs and risks experienced teachers experience with the implementation of the directive that new approaches can be taken to expanding the list of prohibited practices. We think the following are key measures. Data delivery obligations. The commission has already included, uh, this sustainability in sustainability reporting. That should automatically be a black practice. And secondly, the passing on of suppliers to suppliers of undefined costs. The preferential treatment of private labels, in particular food retailers. Also third party responsibilities on their suppliers. And as regards preferential treatment just mentioned, we particularly think that that should apply to favouring private labels over particular over other food retailers branded products. We suggest that we should examine possible flexibilities in payment deadlines for product groups that are easily stored for a longer time. Some similar to what's already done in the wine sector. In any case, we would be glad to engage constructively in the ongoing discussion. Thank you.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Herzlichen dank. Thank you very much. I welcome the general objective of this directive. In other words, to reduce pollution of the environment and pollution by microplastics. [00:14:30] I also welcome the fact that stakeholders and transporters within and out with Europe have to ensure that they avoid loss of plastic pellets and that if they do lose them, they have to take immediate measures. It's important to say that in the context of the Zero Pollution Plan, we've said that we reduce the release of microplastics by 30% [00:15:00] by 2030, and this could be achieved through this proposal. An important aspect, however, is that the instruments to achieve this goal are as efficient and as effective as possible. The proposal contains a complex system of certification and controls, which will lead to significant bureaucracy for the companies concerned, but also for the competent authorities in Austria. These [00:15:30] are authorities from various areas. Therefore. I would call into question the certification system, and I would suggest that we could look at alternatives. We could suggest that these this package of measures under annex one. Would list the necessary requirements for plants so that these measures could be taken [00:16:00] on board directly in the directive, and then leave it up to the competent authorities to carry out the checks. What's important is that we have effective measures, no doubt about that. Thank you.”
  Microplastics
• “Thank you, Madam Chair. We also support Ireland's concern when it comes to the agreement of the four coastal states without an EU involvement, jeopardises the sustainable management of common stocks and also jeopardizes the impacted EU member States. And that is why having a consistent application of the principle of proportionality is indispensable. This also applies to other matters. When we look at the fisheries sectors, i.e. the EU aquaculture statistics, regulation. Even here, proportionality must be assessed and the clear objective has to be one of simplification and cutting red tape, while ensuring, of course, the quality of said EU statistics. We have already put forward proposals on this and we hope that the presidency will consider them favourably. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Thank you very much, chair. And thank you to the Danish delegation for presenting the new Danish approach to developing more sustainable agriculture. This program is clearly tailored to the specific challenges in Denmark, and builds on broad support from the relevant stakeholders. When thinking about national initiatives, it's essential we think that these are country specific in nature. They're not Uh, automatically transferable to other countries. A one size fits all approach would be counterproductive here. In Austria, for many years we've been using an incentive based approach. This combines voluntary measures with education and advice. And this has played a central role in achieving goals. 80% of farmers, for example, take part in agri environmental programs, and organic agriculture now accounts for 26% of agricultural land. That's a record.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you very much, Luis. Firstly, congratulations for being reappointed as a minister. It will be a pleasure to continue working with you. Allow me to start by thanking the presidency for all of its [00:52:30] efforts. Austria recognizes the potential of new gene technologies. But they also come with potential risks. We welcome. That an opt out option is still foreseen for category two, but we are critical still on a number of points as follows. A risk risk assessment of category one [00:53:00] and its products is against what Austria sees as the precautionary principle the removal of category one from the application of the of the directive of the regulation is against the subsidiarity principle. We welcome the ban on the use of NT plants in organic farming, but the question is how this can be achieved without the labelling of NT plants and without huge additional costs for [00:53:30] agriculture. 27.7% of Austria's agriculture is biological, organic and we are a leader in this sector in the EU, which would be put at risk. Consumers have the right to information and and freedom of choice. Therefore, an EU wide obligation for labeling of n g t. Category one is essential. When [00:54:00] it comes to category one co-existence measures also have to be taken by the member states. However, they have to be uniform across the EU in order to ensure that there is no distortion of competition. The proposals and special solutions for For, for Malta, Cyprus and Greece is supported the possibility of patenting these plants. Raises risks, that a monopoly could emerge and that small market operators would [00:54:30] be pushed out. Furthermore, from the Austrian perspective, there's also a risk around biodiversity and availability of certain plant varieties. In summary, the current state of the discussions is not a basis for a general approach yet. Therefore, we are against any general approach and would welcome the presidency continuing discussions in order to clarify a number of open points. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you. The commission information note clearly sets out the role of recycling industry, and the fact that it is an integral part of a circular economy, in particular, at European level, we need targeted aid. This is to meet the challenges and ensure the competitiveness of the European recycling industry and improve it. We need targeted measures at the various sectors at EU level. We need a clear legal framework for the EPP, in particular through central registration of all producers. We need effective controls for online platforms and unfair competitive behaviours. Furthermore, we need promotion of European technology for sorting and recycling in order to close the textile recycling circle within Europe. And we need an assessment report, uh, for financing, for a system to have additional measures, uh, dealing with the danger of fires from batteries. Online platforms are something that we really do need to tackle within the remit of our circular economy. Thank you.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “Thirdly, um, there are countries who are really affected by the question of gas and electricity prices and their knock on effects. And, uh, we have been we've shown solidarity with Ukraine. But those countries which have been particularly affected by this because of high gas prices, they need our support as well. Now when it comes to price zones and reforms. Well, um, when we're setting a CO2 price for a gas power station, we need to also make sure that if it has a negative effect on electricity prices, well, then it's important to now on the car industry. Well, yes, technology openness is good. Um, now the compromise is only a very small compromise. It doesn't go far enough. And, uh, of course, if we're going to then talk about fleet objectives and, uh, that might undermine technological openness by the back door, we need, after all, to allow our vehicle industry to have technological openness. Uh, and now. This focus on the question of key industries. There are industries with enormous amounts of growth rates in Europe, and they need To have state aid benefits, they need quicker procedures. The Net Zero Industry Act could be extended to key technologies. And also we need to focus on how we encourage research because that's the best way for Europe's industries to grow. Thank you.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Thirdly, um, there are countries who are really affected by the question of gas and electricity prices and their knock on effects. And, uh, we have been we've shown solidarity with Ukraine. But those countries which have been particularly affected by this because of high gas prices, they need our support as well. Now when it comes to price zones and reforms. Well, um, when we're setting a CO2 price for a gas power station, we need to also make sure that if it has a negative effect on electricity prices, well, then it's important to now on the car industry. Well, yes, technology openness is good. Um, now the compromise is only a very small compromise. It doesn't go far enough. And, uh, of course, if we're going to then talk about fleet objectives and, uh, that might undermine technological openness by the back door, we need, after all, to allow our vehicle industry to have technological openness. Uh, and now. This focus on the question of key industries. There are industries with enormous amounts of growth rates in Europe, and they need To have state aid benefits, they need quicker procedures. The Net Zero Industry Act could be extended to key technologies. And also we need to focus on how we encourage research because that's the best way for Europe's industries to grow. Thank you.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Thank you very much. Austria would like to thank the presidency for its efforts in order to strike a balanced compromise proposal. We very much welcome the fact that in many aspects, the text has undergone [00:08:00] improvements. The requirements for removing nitrates was mentioned by Austria last time, and we see that we have more realistic deadlines. So a core part of the proposal has been mentioned. Veterinary treatment of foreign EPR system with respect to waste treatment plants. This includes the pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Now in terms of implementation, we think we have to have a harmonised approach. Whilst the [00:08:30] Commission plays a coordinating role for Austria, it's important in terms of municipal water treatment to have an ambitious approach. We set this out in a non-paper with other member states. It's important that this file not be undermined further, that the directive sets out clear goals and uniform minimum standards, and that exemptions should be limited in time. So to that extent, we think we've now reached the juncture [00:09:00] where we have to close the door to any further watering down of the text. I cannot conceal it by the fact that we're somewhat irritated to see at the last minute a last compromise proposal has been put forward, which would massively undermine this in terms of using external sources for renewables. Despite this very unexpected development, in the spirit of compromise, we can vote in favour [00:09:30] of the presidency's proposal in order to come up with a common position. Thank you.”
  Water pollution
• “Thank you very much. And we too would like to thank the Czech Republic for this submission and for this opportunity to express how important it is to. We have a comprehensive cost study underpinning the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. We want to make it quite clear. That we support it in content terms, but make it equally clear that the European Commission has to submit an impact assessment by summer 2026 at the latest. We do think that this comprehensive. Analysis is necessary in order to ensure timely and balanced implementation in 2026.”
  Water pollution
• “Thank you very much. But it all. Salzkammergut 2024 is such that for the first time in European capitals, [00:19:30] the rural alpine landscape is playing an important role. It brings together a new view of this rural area in terms of art and culture, our tradition as we've heard. And this is a wonderful challenge, which involves a partnership of 23 municipalities between two federal lender and also involving European and international dialogue. We're going to talk about current issues such as climate [00:20:00] change, migration or digitalization, but also we'll be looking at the specific challenges facing rural areas. This will begin on the January 2020 for the year of the Cultural Capital, and will be a great honor to invite all of you to us. And I would like to wish our partner capital, Tartu and Bodo all the best for 2024.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Thank you, dear chair. Also, many thanks from our side to the colleagues from Spain for this initiative. It's very important. And I think it was also kind of reflected in the discussion earlier this day. Um, because we see that it's very important to intensify and deepen the discussion on strategic priorities, on the one hand, and the governance of horizon and the Competitiveness Fund on the other hand. And I think we are very united on this table that these issues are very important ones. At the same time, member states have so far expressed different views and approaches how the ECF and Horizon Europe should work together. For Austria, it is crucial to ensure a coherent implementation and a seamless investment journey from basic research under Horizon Europe to Valorisation, with tools provided by the ECF. The governance should enable this journey and help overcome existing silos and barriers between research and deployment. We are looking forward to continuing these important discussions in the upcoming negotiations. Very um, thank you very much. Sorry.”
  Research priorities within the EU
• “First of all, I'd like to thank the presidency for having put this topic on today's agenda in order to provide guidelines for the work on technical level. Austria generally welcomes any proposals to strengthen European competitiveness. The proposed 20 eighth regime EU Inc. Can provide a step towards completing the single market by reducing administrative burden and ensuring that cross border economic activity is facilitated. The proposal, however, does raise some questions, and there is a risk of a race to the bottom. The proposal not only concerns company law, but also rights of creditors, consumers, and workers. First off, on the legal base. The current legal base is 1 that we have some doubts about when it comes to taxation as well as codetermination of employees is not covered by that legal base as far as we can tell. A written opinion of the council legal service, therefore, is indispensable. We believe that perhaps a a directive based on article 51 TFEU would be a way forward. Also, there should be a deeper assessment of the economic implications. On the second question, the following aspects are decisive when it comes to ensuring a comprehensive legal framework. In many member states, co determination by employees is not sufficiently safeguarded. There are ways of circumventing circumventing these provisions that are mandatory in many member states, and that is not acceptable. Austria is currently working on a solution to this with other member states. Secondly, EU Inc. Has to be a serious company form, but there are no protective measures in order to mitigate the risks of sanction circumvents since money laundering and others. Thirdly, chapter 10 does not provide a balanced insolvency procedure, and any claims by tax institutions and others can be under, mind, which could lead to damages, and we would therefore advocate for deleting chapter 10. And finally, given the significant impact of this proposal on other company forms, innovative startups and stay and scale up should be the only ones who can benefit from it. This is also in favor of concluding negotiations quickly. Thank you.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “Thank you very much indeed. I'd also like to thank Belgium for having raised this point, which we would support. I'd just like to focus on the question of financing, where we do continue to regret that it is planned to abolish life as a standalone instrument in the next MFF, but we think that life is very positive brand and should be maintained, or at least the individual life actions should be included in the MFF in such a way as to ensure that there continue to be adequate resources made available to adapt to climate change. Thank you.”
  Climate efforts
• “Thirdly, um, there are countries who are really affected by the question of gas and electricity prices and their knock on effects. And, uh, we have been we've shown solidarity with Ukraine. But those countries which have been particularly affected by this because of high gas prices, they need our support as well. Now when it comes to price zones and reforms. Well, um, when we're setting a CO2 price for a gas power station, we need to also make sure that if it has a negative effect on electricity prices, well, then it's important to now on the car industry. Well, yes, technology openness is good. Um, now the compromise is only a very small compromise. It doesn't go far enough. And, uh, of course, if we're going to then talk about fleet objectives and, uh, that might undermine technological openness by the back door, we need, after all, to allow our vehicle industry to have technological openness. Uh, and now. This focus on the question of key industries. There are industries with enormous amounts of growth rates in Europe, and they need To have state aid benefits, they need quicker procedures. The Net Zero Industry Act could be extended to key technologies. And also we need to focus on how we encourage research because that's the best way for Europe's industries to grow. Thank you.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Thank you very much, Madam chair. Dear Commissioner, as regards the fact that there's growing resistance and, uh, reduced security. It is important that we have, uh, plant protection products in sufficient quantities. We want a risk based approach here. And so. That would maintain the agronomic capacity of our farms. Finally, I'd like to stress that adjustments to plant protection product legislation must not give rise to an increase in administrative costs for the competent authorities, and especially not for farmers. Thank you.”
  EU policy on pesticides
• “Having proper working conditions is something that is a huge factor as well. When making sure that people can stay longer in the working life and can do so in a healthy way. So we very much focus on the people themselves. We focus on women in particular as well, who have other responsibilities many times too. We have a number of different measures and initiatives that we are putting into place to deal with occupational health issues, particularly among those who are older workers, to make sure that job and career mobility can be promoted. We have a fit to work program, for example. It's a prevention program which looks at low cost counseling programs for workers, for companies which looks at their health and has as an overall goal to keep people in work for longer. Occupational health and promotion plays an important role. It's also very important to look at the psychological health of workers and to systematically look after that so that these kinds of illnesses can be prevented as well. Measures which would tackle age discrimination is something that we are particularly looking at in the government as well. Now, one of the main challenges that we're coming when it comes to dealing with the demographic challenges that we're facing and creating an inclusive society is strengthening our cooperation and also making sure we have intergenerational solidarity. Thank you.”
  EU policy on aging workforce and pensions
• “Austria itself does not get any oil from Russia. And obviously we are keeping to the sanctions against Russia, but we understand that the Druzhba pipeline is indeed responsible for the security of supply to our neighbors, Hungary and also Slovakia. So in line with the EU law that there should be. We believe that there should actually be a. Possibility for these countries to benefit from Russian oil through this pipeline, and I think that we should be able to open the the this pipeline again, and we should hear from Ukraine's, uh, minister that they are working on this pipeline and that they are going to make sure that as soon as possible, the this pipeline will be back in working order. I think that's the important signal that should be given to us to make sure that we have security of supply and energy security for all member States.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• “Dear Maria, dear Christoph, colleagues. First, I would like to thank Bulgaria and express my support for the overall fundamental issues. However, departing from the n plus 3 rule will cause difficulties especially at the end of the current programming period. I believe more time and flexibility will be needed to tap into the full use of resources. Therefore, looking at the application of the n plus 2 rule vis a vis the cap strategic plans, well, we see this as a critical point. This issue is linked to the MFF, which is why it is important to raise it also in the European Council. Thank you.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Commissioner. Dear Jessica, thank you very much to Czechia. Thank you for tabling this important point. I think we need to clarify first that the long term risk of lead ammunition for people. We do have to take that into account because of the ballistic characteristics. Lead actually is used in ammunition in the military and for hunters. We would like an exemption for military and police use that would be of utmost importance. Same for the use in hunting. And we need transitional periods for at least ten years for all types of bullets until we can have a proper impact assessment. We also need to have sufficient production of Alternatives of similar ammunition for hunting. Looking at risks, um, when it comes to culling of wild animals. Well, we have to look at alternative ammunition for hunters. That all has to be taken on board. We also fear that when it comes to rural development, this might have an important pressure for current production. If we're going to be bringing to the fore new production, um, chains. So I think the Czech suggestion goes a bit too far. Thank you. Um.”
  Chemicals regulation
• “Dear president, we've continued to welcome this European Commission initiative, exploring ways in which all children can derive the rights from their recognized parenthood in other member states as well without further obstacles. On the first question, in connection with the commission proposal, first of all, the subject of surrogacy is very delicate. It's been raised already by Finland and Spain. The practice of surrogacy is forbidden in Austria. The scope of application of the draft of this regulation, however, also contains this area. The problem is whether surrogacy has to be accepted by all member states or not, and that has already been taken up under the Belgian presidency. And from our point of view, I think we should continue to work on it. This regulation should open up the possibility to apply or to be able to diverge from the application of foreign law which allows surrogacy to avoid the exploitation of women and with regard for the core values of the society. There are some alternative solutions proposed by the regulation for recognition of parenthood from surrogacy, which we welcome, and we think that those alternative solutions should be included in the text of the regulation. In Austria as well, like in Spain, we recognize same sex couples and we recognize parenthoods, and we would like to preserve the current situation on an EU wide basis. On the second question, further technical work is necessary at working party level, so we can work out whether the draft does justice to the various legal systems, the Austrian legal system. If we recognize parenthood in a cross border parenthood, we must ensure that the well-being of the child is taken into account as well as the protection of the surrogate mother of the women by the national courts. If we could also contemplate enhanced cooperation as a way forward, but we would need a definitive version of the draft regulation which would clarify all outstanding issues, both substantial and technical. Only then would we be able to consider whether participation in an enhanced cooperation would come into question for Austria or not.”
  Regulation of surrogate pregnancy
• “Thank you, Madam President. For future EU activities, it would be appropriate to put a special focus on the rapid developments in the tobacco and nicotine sectors, changing consumer behaviour and thirdly, looking for a sustainable way of regulating this. In particular, it's important When it comes to the directive on tobacco products from 2014 to to follow that approach, where consumers behavior changes away from older tobacco products to newer ones, one should ensure that new types of tobacco products, which are not regulated as yet, should be included in the relevant regulatory framework. With particular attention on tobacco and nicotine policy. One should look for an approach where the per per capita per capita alcohol consumption is decreased by 10% in line with the W.H.O. plan. That should be our goal. I believe the regulations on. Additional substances should also be taken on board. One should seek to improve the level of knowledge and awareness of the population on these health issues, and that could take the form of health indicators in the national measurements of the health system, as part of a general policy to promote health. Life skill approaches should be focused in work with children and young people, and included among the key indicators. Social inequality and poverty should also be combated. Socioeconomic determinants. When it comes to non-communicable diseases, should be a key issue and the social participation by marginalised population groups. On the last question. A final key aspect is the need to improve cooperation among member states, particularly in terms of market supervision, supervisory measures, a specialist exchange and additional training for experts could help remove inappropriate products from the market or keep them out of the market. In terms of alcohol. The idea of setting up a EU platforms where the EU could play a coordinating role when it comes to the EU prevention curriculum measures in this respect could be adapted for health promotion purposes. Institutional cooperation could also be supported by measures in the educational sector, in businesses, or a particular focus in the health system in all areas. We believe it is important to exchange best practices and the experiences acquired. Thank you.”
  EU measures on lifestyle-related behaviours (smoking, drinking, eating, etc.)
• “Thank you very much, Luis. Commissioner, thank you very much. Thanks also to the presidency for the summary of the first year of application of the [00:47:30] strategic plans and the recent report on the specific targets of the Cap. These reflect the many challenges, but also contributions of the new cap and in particular, the strategic plans. This makes it clear that both agricultural. Operations and administration are confronted by high levels of complexity. However, we should highlight that the Cap reform [00:48:00] has brought across Europe a high level of ambition in terms of environment, climate and animal welfare, and we've been able to achieve those targets. The first year of application, in addition to all of the new legislative framework, have been marked by. The situation on the mark is an extreme weather event. However, we also note that in Austria things have gone well and according to plan. This is reflected in part in the number [00:48:30] of applications for area related measures, which on the whole are very satisfying. It also applies to the eco schemes. The resources set aside for these will be. Paid out in full. The number of applications for non area related measures are also developing well. Payments for area related measures will take place as planned by 21st December [00:49:00] 2023. And late of high levels of inflation. And in order to be able to provide attractive measures in the future. Also in 2024, we will be bringing forward an impulse program for agriculture with additional national resources in the value of €360 million for the next four years. That is 90 million a year. Additionally. Modifications to improve investments in climate adaptation [00:49:30] and protection are foreseen. In light of the multiple crises and global challenges, I would call on all stakeholders to focus on planning, security and stability. For farmers and for the administration. It's important to have sufficient flexibility when it comes to implementation. The proposals from the Commission for Improvement and Simplification, particularly [00:50:00] around the modification procedure, should be taken forward and made more concrete. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “President and Commissioner Christoph Kozlov. I know that this is an orientation date on this AP simplification package. So in our preparation, we've already Expressed our main concerns in the appropriate bodies. Those concerns remain that concerns our position that the Council and the Special Committee on Agriculture should be responsible here, and we have to have the package accepted as quickly as possible. That's an appeal to the Danish presidency as well. The current developments, as well as the internal reflections of the Commission on Modernisation of the EU budget, require us to raise our voices in favour of European producers. After everything we've heard on proposals for the coming financial framework, we. It seems that the cap could be in danger. We need an effective cap with a separate legal framework and a clearly established budget. It would be a mistake to give up that tried and tested formula. We want to make it clear to producers that we have are supporting their way of life, which is based on the Common Agricultural Policy, and that is completely separate from decisions and other areas of policy. That's a very important point to make. Mere lip service to their interests is not enough. I plea, I give a plea specifically, especially in front of our requirements which arise from the EU treaties.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you very much. Sander. It was rightly pointed out that protecting our children and combating sexual violence against children is one of our most important tasks. It may even be the most important task, as you yourself have said. Magnus. These crimes are the most heinous of crimes. And I therefore welcome the proposal made by the presidency and the European Commission. However, I must flag some data protection concerns raised by the Austrian Parliament. And I am, of course, bound by those concerns. And I therefore call for this proposal to be reworked to be in conformity with data protection and constitutional law. And therefore Austria has to abstain and refers to our statement to the minutes. Thank you.”
  Privacy & detection of online child abuse
• “Thank you very much, chair. Thank you very much, Commissioner. We welcome the European Commission's omnibus initiative, especially considering that we are living through difficult times, especially geopolitically, where we see a rise in production costs and other challenges when it comes to the food and feed chain. And that is why we require practical, balanced and fair framework conditions to ensure the outstanding level of food and feed safety. In the long term, these proposals can contribute to a substantial simplification of existing rules, as well as greater fairness fairness vis a vis the competition for agricultural products with third countries. In the past, Austria has stressed the need for functioning and reliable framework, and we believe that the Commission's proposal is a great starting point, especially relating to further developing more efficient, accelerated and harmonised procedures in the era of authorisation, and Austria will play a constructive role.”
  EU policy on pesticides