- 2026-07-14 “Start in Dutch and, continue in French. Of course, we'd like to wish you all the best for your presidency. Belgium shares the focus you're placing on the MFF as well as on competitiveness and the 1 Europe, 1 market road map as well as the simplification agenda, the savings and investment union, and the energy agenda.
In addition, Belgium wants to continue working on economic security, diversification, and reducing dependencies strategic dependencies as well as increasing the European defense and security architecture as well as migration, paying particular attention to implementation of the asylum and migration pact and linking that to internal reforms and the rule of law. And, these are the priorities that we can confirm for the upcoming work plan.
Now on the priorities that the Irish presidency has laid out, I'm switching to French. On the multi annual financial framework, Belgium is concerned about the volume of the current MFF proposal. We join the concerns expressed in this regard by Germany. We are also attached to the EU's new priorities, competitiveness, innovation, security and defense, but we also need to adequately preserve the traditional sectors. And I'm thinking of cohesion and the CAP in particular here.
We believe that the budgetary volume, however, needs to be reduced in order for national budgets to be able to support it, and we leave the customs duties should remain at 25%. Now we are in favor of simplification, but we cannot regulate. So we need to find the right balance.
When it comes to enlargement, we support a merit based process for enlargement and gradual integration of candidate countries on the condition that they complete all the steps that are necessary. And together with Benelux, France, and Germany, we have introduced the idea of a safeguard clause, and we're also working with the same partners on a nonpaper exploring the reforms that will be necessary to ensure that the European Union can make progress in October.
When it comes to the rule of law, that is, of course, also an essential topic for Belgium. And the focus on international law. It's a question of credibility, really, for the EU at the international level. We need an effective toolbox. The article 7 procedure against Hungary Here, Belgium is working closely with partners.
When it comes to relations with The United Kingdom, we are in favor of deepening our relations with the EU and The UK. If the conditions are right in energy migration and security issues, we can work together closely and also on implementing the provisions of the Brexit agreement, in particular, the SPS agreement, coupling of carbon markets and electricity markets. However, there are some significant legal and technical questions that need to be explored when it comes to tuition fees among others.
On resilience, we support the fight against Fimi and disinformation in the digital sphere. Our citizens need to be well informed in order to strengthen our democratic resilience, and that was also highlighted in Ankara during the NATO summit last week. It doesn't matter how much we strengthen our defenses. If at the end of the day, disinformation disseminated through new technologies is undermining public opinion.
So we need to pay special attention to the issue of disinformation, which is already interfering in various electoral procedures in some of our neighboring countries. Exchanging good practices is critical, but we also need to avoid duplication with already existing instruments. And given the rise of Fimi, we're in favor of coordinated action based on existing structures in order to once again avoid duplication and ensuring that we support civil society and the free media.
Finally, the fight against illicit drugs and maritime security for a country like ours, which is a seafaring nation. Maritime security is important, and the fight against illicit drugs is also crucial for Belgium given the crucial role played by the Port Of Antwerp and the global security implications of this issue. So the USPS code against organized crime needs to be implemented, particularly the aspects related to illicit trade? Thank you.”
Size of EU budget
- 2026-07-13 “26:21 - 15:28:54): Thank you, Martin. Next up is Belgium followed by Netherlands and Denmark. Martin? Thank you very much, Sharon, and thanks for putting this important topic on today's agenda. Now women are vital in agriculture and the social and agricultural quality of rural areas. We've already strengthened this. We already emphasized this in the Belgian conclusions. It's important to have women properly participating and recognized in the agricultural sector, and they must be strengthened. To do this, we've not only recognized their contribution to agriculture, we must also provide assistance to women entrepreneurs. Very often, essential tasks in agriculture are done by women, but they're low jobs, particularly administration and communication tasks. It's important to get better recognition of this contribution both in terms of agricultural perceptions and also in the data which is used for developing policy.
Looking at women's women in farming, that can really help to make the sector attractive in in terms of generational renewal. We must encourage women to consider themselves as being fully fledged entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector, looking at their careers and what their achievements and what they contribute to the sector. Obstacles facing women can be reduced or even removed via targeted policies such as training and education. And training can help initiatives regarding position of women in farming, entrepreneurship, time management, and IT skills. In Belgium, we've got specific contact points to answer questions from women entrepreneurs in agriculture. And networks of women farmers are also key in order to exchange knowledge, experiences, and good practices. And such exchanges must also be further promoted between member states.
Women should have the same opportunities as men to set up, inherit, or purchase a farm. And it's important, therefore, for women to have equal access to finance and also to have targeted training, advice, and guidance to withdraw to remove the obstacles that women sometimes face. Now in Belgium, we're currently providing assistance to female farmers, and we're hoping that in future, we will be able to address continue address this this issue with sufficient attention. Thank you.”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion
- 2026-06-29 “Thank you. Konstantinos. We are very happy with this discussion on accessibility to accommodation, particularly for students. We know that it is difficult for low income families, and I think they have to at the very heart of our concerns. Now the markets for housing differ a great deal between our countries, so we have to tailor our responses accordingly. A number of steps have been taken in Flanders, for example, there are interest free loans and also certain guarantees have been provided as well so as to allow people to have accessible, high quality accommodation. We also have to look at social accommodation so that there can be housing at a reasonable rent. And this is a good example of cooperation between the both the public and private sectors when it comes to mobilizing investment. And private and public investment has to be complementary. We already have to look at affordable accommodation in our regions. Private agents, though, can certainly increase what is on offer within social targets. There are interesting possibilities here to provide affordable housing. We have budget constraints and we have to be strategic in our approach, and we have to pay particular attention to international students and those who travel within Europe, but to work and study. Thank you.”
EU policy on urban development
- 2026-06-29 “Thank you colleagues. Belgium supports this initiative that has been jointly presented with Italy and Hungary in favor of a Remembrance Day for the victims of accidents at work on the 8th of August. This date reminds us of the Marcinelle mining disaster. In 1956, 262 miners from 12 different nationalities died that day. Italians, Belgians, Polish people and Greeks, as well as Germans amongst others. These had come from across Europe and they were participating in the reconstruction of our continent. This is in living memory. Last October, President Mattarella and King Philippe went to the Marcinelle site together. This gesture reminded us that it is an important page in our history for both our countries and for social Europe. And every day three 3000 people die in in the European Union. And it is important to promote the prevention culture for the safety of workers as well as for the competitiveness of our economies. On the 20th of May last last year, this was this year was this was a reminder to us. Thank you.”
EU rules on hazardous working conditions
- 2026-06-29 “Thank you. Chair. Dear Minister. Dear colleagues, let me first congratulate the Cypriot presidency for the successful, successfully completed revision of the Coordination Regulation. But in the view of rapidly changing realities of the labour market, the implementation of the rules on the coordination of Social Security system still remains a challenge. Especially when we speak of emerging forms of work and the increasing number of mobile workers within the union who carry out activities in more than one member states and frequently change their employment status. So what could be further addressed? Maybe. Firstly, the increasing use of remote and hybrid means of work in recent years has revealed some shortcomings in the framework of determining the applicable social legislation. Secondly, the increasing number of persons pursuing an active and activity in more than one Member States state calls for simplification of procedures and introduction of clearer criteria for determining the applicable Social Security regime. Thirdly, it is necessary to improve the rules applicable to self-employed persons in a cross-border context with a view to more clearly distinguishing between genuine and bogus self-employment, as well as limiting the risk of incorrect qualification and fraud. Last but not least, further digitalization and simplification of procedures, including with regard to A1 certificates can significantly reduce the administrative burden, improve controls and increase transparency within the union. In addition, within the current legal framework and the national measures, the main efforts should be directed towards further developing of electronic exchange of Social Security information. They should also focus on closer cooperation between Member States institutions to trace the status of persons receiving benefits from one member state to another, and strengthening the role of the European Labour Authority in preventing and combating cross-border abuses. Thank you very much for your attention.”
EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers
- 2026-06-29 “Thank you. Claire. Oksana. Belgium welcomes the EU strategy. We also approve of the key strategies. These are reflected in the Inter federal anti-poverty strategy in Belgium. This aims to. To develop a federal and federal. As well as regional aspects that would include the policies that are. That that involve employment, housing and health. The Belgian strategy also integrates the life cycle approach, focusing specifically on child poverty in line with the strengthening of the child guarantee for childhood. We have a plan. We wish to set up actions in Belgium that are focusing on several axes. First of all, the prioritization of proactive measures to help the potential benefit users. Then we also apply the strategy for the development of instruments that will be digital by by default, but also access to other systems. And there will also be a system according to which obstacles will be identified in terms of access to benefits. The anti-poverty strategy is important socially and economically. And the fact is that if we do not fight poverty, the cost will be high for society. Thank you.”
Child poverty policy
- 2026-06-29 “Yes. Thank you. Marina's dear Roxana. First, I would like to congratulate the presidency. I'd like to congratulate them for having reached an agreement on coordination rules for Social Security. And this after the 20th trilogue. Now for Belgium. This was linked to a commission commitment to monitor also all the rights on unemployment to make sure that they are guaranteed through a better administrative cooperation, through more controls, greater follow up and activation in order to facilitate a return to work. A strengthening of administrative cooperation is also necessary. We need to improve data exchange between authorities, and this is essential. We need to involve the Ela and we need to use our administrative systems more. The coordination of rules must also adapt to the labour market to guarantee fair mobility and to have an efficient mobility as well. We have to consider the various types of work As you said, there is an increasing request for telework. Digital nomads. And then there are people who work in various countries, such as seasonal workers and autonomous workers. So we support the creation of a European passport for Social Security. And we need to clarify the legal framework of citizens who come from a third country in this next package. Thank you.”
Regulation of teleworking labour conditions
- 2026-06-26 “53:25 - 11:54:46): Thank you. Belgium, Spain, France. Colleagues, can I warmly thank my Czech and Slovak colleagues for putting this important item on the agenda? We fully support the goal of reducing emissions throughout the supply chain. But at the same time, it's essential that we take account of the sector's concerns given the geopolitical context and market realities, particularly as regards security of supply. We welcome the commission's work on the recommendations regarding penalties, which are progress, but, however, sadly, do not yet provide sufficient legal certainty because they are not binding and they do not, in any way, change the underlying obligations.
Beyond the penalties regime, a number of uncertainties remain, particularly around the demonstration of a proof of compliance. These are made worse by the lack of executing, implementing acts, and technical guidelines, particularly when it comes to verification and accreditation. In this context, Belgium alongside the Czech Republic and other member states calls for a temporary delay of certain deadlines as well as targeted amendments to the applicable requirements on imports in order to ensure a legally certain and operational, implementation without putting underlying regulation at at question. Thank you. So, Spain, France followed by Latvia.”
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you Maria. Belgium would like to thank the Member States for submitting this important AOB item. We fully recognise the urgency and importance of accelerating the transition to a more sustainable and circular textile sector to benefit citizens, the environment and our economy. The impacts of the current textile system system are considerable over production, largely fuelled by fast fashion and ultra fast fashion business models leads to a massive increase in textile waste volumes, a waste of resources, pollution, excessive emissions and significant social costs. At the same time, it is essential to ensure a level playing field. Our European textile sector, as well as companies investing in sustainability, must not be put at a disadvantage. Strong and effective implementation and enforcement of EU legislation will be key to achieving results and maintaining fair competition, notably in the context of online platforms and imports. We support many of the ideas presented in the Non-paper, and we see a real added value in joint action to address the challenges posed by ultra fast fashion. Belgium stands ready to actively contribute to the development of EU legislation in this area, and we look forward to continuing cooperation with all Member States and the Commission to build a strong framework for textiles in Europe. Thank you.”
Sustainable fashion
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Maria. Belgium shares with France the need for further harmonization of permit granting procedures between the different sectors within the EU. It considers that the current fragmentation of the rules applicable in the various sectoral frameworks leads to legal uncertainty, a more administrative burden, Additional costs for competent authorities and economic operators. A more harmonised approach would improve predictability, ensure a level playing field would reduce compliance costs, and would contribute to more efficient and timely decision making, while maintaining a high level of environmental protection. Thank you.”
Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Maria. We share the concerns and comments made by Franz regarding development and dissemination of invasive exotic species. Belgium has already acted in this area. This is something going beyond our national borders. We are therefore ready to participate in any cross border initiative in this area. Thank you.”
Management of EU forests
- 2026-06-25 “Commissioner. Biodiversity is an essential element. It's very important for the economy and the well-being of society as a whole. The last, um, WEF report shows that the degradation of ecosystems is the second risk, the number two risk for our economies. And so we need a balanced, consistent approach that pursues our climate and biodiversity objectives, which strengthens the resilience of our ecosystems secures the services they provide and supports our economic performance. There are many examples of nature based solutions and initiatives, often at local or regional level. The restoration of pollinator populations, the maintenance of soil quality, the restoration of rivers. All of these actions contribute to the protection and restoration of biodiversity whilst supporting economic activity, in particular agricultural and forestry production. But it also limits the risk of climatic and natural hazards on our territories. At the same time, we believe that the value of biodiversity and ecosystem services should be better reflected in the markets sector should be better informed about their impacts and dependencies in order to reduce their operational, financial and strategic risks. This would be particularly beneficial for sectors and companies exposed to significant risks due to their dependence on natural resources, regulation of environmental conditions and natural cycles.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- 2026-06-25 “As regards the establishment of an enabling framework for the transition to a nature positive economy, that's your second question. We believe it's important to put a focus first on the implementation of the existing framework. For example, the Nature Restoration Regulation, which is a unique opportunity to integrate biodiversity concerns into our forestry, agriculture and spatial planning policies. In addition, the mobilization of predictable and measurable support for biodiversity should take multiple forms. Solutions need to be adapted to national specificities and contexts, and so an essential first step is to map the landscape of biodiversity financing and financial flows. Indeed, it's not just a question of increasing funding for our biodiversity, but also lining up with ipbes assessments of reducing harmful flows and making a more efficient use of existing resources. And of course, we're following closely the progress of the nature credits. These could contribute to additional financing for farmers, foresters and natural area managers. However, we will be vigilant to make sure that this system does not increase the price of agricultural land. Thank you.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, Madam President. As suggested by France, we support an update of the Comitology registration requirements. This to take into account the new classifications and criteria of the CLP regulation. We also support the harmonisation and digitalisation of safety data sheets, as well as the promotion of animal free test methods, provided that this does not create uncertainty about the hazard of substances on Nanoforms. Belgium is of the opinion that priority should be given to establishing a clear, common understanding of the concept of set of nano forms. Now, once the level playing field is ensured again, there is a need for a collective reflection on the further revision of reach. Over the 20 years of application, many changes have taken place both in terms of scientific project progress and in the way we approach industrial, environmental and health policies. Belgium welcomes the discussion to strengthen enforcement to ensure that products important in sold online comply with similar safety requirements, and to improve the level playing field. Belgium feels this is crucial to ensure competitiveness of European companies. As suggested by France. We support measures to clarify the responsibilities of operators in the EU, including for online sales as well as more targeted controls measures, improving automated documentary checks. Enhanced cooperation and increased digitalisation with regard to the idea of a possible Reach Enforcement Act. Belgium considers that it would be useful to examine this avenue in the broader context of the reforms already under way at the EU level, in particular those of the customs union and the Market Surveillance Regulation and the Future European Product Act. This approach would identify the most effective instruments to modernize, simplify and strengthen enforcement while ensuring ensuring better coherence between reach and existing horizontal horizontal legislation and avoiding the creation of additional complexities. Thank you.”
Classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Chair colleagues. Commissioner, on your first question here, the three regions of Belgium have made significant progress in terms of water resilience, and each of them has a specific plans to deal 2.0 in Flanders. We have the water resources 3.0 and we're only. And there's a new plan being established in Brussels. But there are still lots of challenges. We need to create a solid local partnerships which can really translate European objectives into concrete objectives which can evolve. It's important that we establish synergies. We need to look at water quality, farming, nature, climate resilience, leisure activities and we need to ensure that our industries which depend on water are taken into account as well. Now we need an approach based on local partnerships. We need a high level of governance. We need an integrated territory and region based approach. And that should mean that the EU initiatives can be implemented. But EU initiatives need to take into account local needs in particular. They need to look at aspects which are key. You need to look at permitting related to the reuse of water in the Water Framework Directive. Now, coming up to the second question, Belgium has made significant progress in digitalization, has really helped remote sensing. We've been able to see leaks, and we've focused on smart waters as well. Belgium is happy that we have a more structured, integrated approach at EU level. The digitalization action plan should enable us to better integrate the water sector, agriculture and various industrial sectors. Digitalization should ensure that we're more efficient and that we reduce the administrative burden, notably by the only once reporting principle. Lastly, funding. One thing I think is clear is difficult to get private investors to invest in water resilience projects. Often they think there won't be that much of a profit for them. So we should move towards credible investment portfolios rather than isolated projects and future funding, including the next MFF needs a strategic approach to reduce risks. You need to look at blended funding, EIB tools. These are all things which can improve the attractiveness of the projects which exist. Thank you.”
Climate policy
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Maria. Colleagues. Commissioner, we'd like to thank France for including this item on the agenda. We are aware of the current context when it comes to negotiations and the challenges involved. However, it's essential we don't lose sight of the necessary level of ambition. It's important that the treaty cover the entire life cycle of plastics, including sustainable consumption and production. Now, the informal meeting of heads of delegation to be held in Nairobi at the end of the month, is an opportunity for the EU and its member states to reaffirm these essential elements, while taking the time to discuss with other groups and delegations. Thank you.”
EU policy towards plastics
- 2026-06-25 “Well, thank you very much. Um, Commissioner, and congratulations to Romania. So we need to be taking this path of lower emissions. That's clear. Now, Belgium would like to take a pragmatic and balanced approach of having climate targets with competitiveness, and also looking at the reduction of administrative burden that could, um, prejudice some of the stakeholders. I think the paper is a good basis for discussion. We need to look at the performance issues. We need to take a deeper dive, especially looking at legal certainty carbon neutrality and predictability for investors in the sector. Now let's look at flexibility. It's important to look at this in a balanced way, taking into consideration the need to preserve have a credible and balanced approach. We need to respect climate targets as a including in the area of technological neutrality. Neutrality. There are various avenues that can be pursued and we could build in flexibility to, in terms of open pools and the super credits, in order to make sure that this contribution is effective in our path towards, um, zero emissions and also to helping, uh, purchasing power for our consumers. We need to look at the interaction with the red three, um, legislation. I would encourage the commissioner in terms of what the commissioner said about small electric vehicles. Socially, this is indispensable if we want the most vulnerable among us to live. Help us live up to our ambitious targets. Thank you.”
Climate policy
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, president. Colleagues. Commissioner. With a view to the Circular Economy Act, announced after the summer by the European Commission, we as the Benelux countries, I would like to share our common priorities. We have sent out a non-paper and I would like you to allow me to present the main messages. Now to strengthen the circular Single market, we need clear, proportionate and coherent legislation. The Circular Economy Act should strengthen the Waste Framework Directive to better apply the waste hierarchy above and beyond strengthening the Waste Framework Directive. It should stimulate demand for high quality secondary raw materials from the EU. What's essential here um for this market. Um well this is important for the secondary raw materials market. The revision of the waste electrical and Electronic Equipment directive is also necessary to better address the growth of e-waste, e-waste and the loss of critical raw materials. To sum up, Europe has a unique opportunity to assure long term competitiveness of our economies and an open strategic autonomy in the EU by bringing together the resources with and help the well-being of our societies.”
Circular economy
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you chair. I'll keep it very brief to thank you to the colleagues. Belgium agrees with the main conclusions of the analysis. It was stressed. The fact that secondary legislation, which is clear and which is available in good time, is key. If we want to ensure legal certainty and effective implementation of the regulation.”
EU political integration
- 2026-06-25 “Thank you chair. Thank you to Spain for putting this item on the agenda. Belgium supports Spain's analysis regarding the significant added value provided by life when it comes to our aim objectives in the area of preserving nature, the climate and the environment, life has always been of excellent quality. It really focuses on cooperation between member states. Luxembourg and Wallonia, for example, have worked together. So we think that life's objectives are ones we should continue to work on. There should be central management and there should be a excellence based criteria which is used to select projects. Thank you.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- 2026-06-25 “Madam president. Thank you very much, chair. I'd like to start by thanking the Netherlands and in particular, colleague Von Feldmann, for the brilliant way that she co-chaired the conference. I also wish to extend my thanks to Wopke Hoekstra, the commissioner. I think that those European countries present were able to demonstrate that multilateralism has a good days ahead of it, and when the EU is strong, united and rowing in the same direction, nothing is impossible in the current context, where international cooperation faces a number of challenges. This conference was an opportunity to move from commitments to action. To make this transition a success, we need to address a number of structural barriers, including energy security, supply chains and policy coherence. In certain Manta, Belgium focused on three priorities developing sustainable and resilient value chains, creating a level playing field, including through carbon pricing and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies, as well as accelerating the decarbonisation of key global sectors such as maritime transport. Thank you.”
Decarbonisation of maritime transport
- 2026-06-22 “Thank you. And sorry for inadvertently having cut your microphone off. Chair. Dear chair and dear Kostas. First of all, a welcome to our new colleagues. I'd like to thank the Cyprus presidency very cordially for making great efforts for fisheries for the forthcoming EU MFF and one of your main achievements has been the changes made that benefit the fishing sector that were implemented in the most recent MFF nego box. But this isn't enough yet. And my dear colleague Louise just said in budgetary terms, we could really see more. And the regulation that we are discussing today is one of the things that has improved in its development. I find it important that we have enough scope to modernise the fishing fleet. This is essential to improving the sector's energy efficiency and its competitiveness. Generally, colleagues Belgium continues to find that the currently made changes are insufficient to address the remaining risks and concerns fully. We continue to be worried about how the resources are being allocated, and this at a time when the budget earmarked for fisheries is still set at a level below the current level. It also remains necessary for us to gain clarity about the funding of major, and I must say, also obligatory tasks such as data collection and control. So Belgium absolutely wishes to continue working on the text to address these concerns that remain. This is a key dossier and will be paying close attention to it. Thank you.”
Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
- 2026-06-22 “Thank you, chair. And dear Kostas, thank you for this extensive evaluation. We in Belgium read this lengthy report with keen attention. Since 2013, the Common Fisheries Policy has made progress in sustainably managing fish stocks. More stocks are nowadays being fished at maximum sustainable yield. But of course, the world has changed since 2013, and the European fishing sector has undergone a succession of crises. The sector's competitiveness is under more pressure, and profitability is insufficient to allow even necessary investments to be made. Moreover, we are not succeeding properly in attracting workers. We really need an adapted policy framework that addresses all three pillars of the CFP, with more emphasis placed on the socio economic dimensions. And yes, we will need an ambitious reform. As I've said already today, the chasm between the theoretical framework and implementability in practice is simply too great, and the traction that many regulations, directions and implementing decisions have in the sector is continuing to crumble. The framework we've built has become overcomplicated. Having read the evaluation, we're asking ourselves the following questions. First, can we take our leave of a management that's focused on individual stocks, and can we manage to develop towards a more ecosystem based approach, especially now that the effects of climate change are making themselves felt more and more keenly? Secondly, can we invest more in data collection and data processing to enable quicker, more accurate advice to be obtained? And thirdly, can we maintain space at sea for our fishers by not excluding them? And can we champion multiple use of the marine environment? Belgium is convinced that all three of these questions can be answered with a yes. As long as we have the courage to reform and to question our customary approaches.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- 2026-06-22 “The objective has to be key more selectiveness, far less unintended bycatch, but it has to be achievable. I am not convinced that yet more controls and yet more enforcement will deliver the desired results. What is more important than that is for scientists, fishers and policymakers together to be a constructive, positive partner in working out alternative management. And our Belgian scientists, fishers and policymakers are good at that. And our second concern, quite apart from regulations complex in themselves, additional technical measures were imposed in 2026, as well as additional closures affecting the Belgian sector heavily. So I plead for thorough scientific justification and consultation with the sector before we proceed to imposing any more measures for 2027. It remains crucial, and for the latter half of this year that we reach a sustainable agreement for the with the UK and Norway in which we defend the interests of the EU fishing sector as well as we can to ensure that we maintain a united front. That agreement will have to strike a balance between the interests of all member states involved. I wish the incoming Irish presidency much success in carrying out this task in partnership with the Commission services. Thank you.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- 2026-06-22 “Thank you, chair and dear Kostas. The commission's progress report gives a very clear picture of the successes and of the remaining challenges for Belgium. It's very important to look at the socio economic contributions of the EU fleet, but we must not rest on our laurels, colleagues, just because we are able to conclude that fewer jobs are being lost than inspected. No, on the contrary, our policy objectives ought to be net growth, modernisation and profitable. Fishers provide our food and our European fishers contribute to increasing our independence on independence from foreign imports. The context in which fisheries operate is particularly challenging. I need only mention the quick succession of energy crises. I have two very important concerns. One is the landing obligation. Member states have made major efforts in recent years to increase selectiveness. But colleagues practice. Experience in practice shows that the landing obligation is no longer workable for mixed fisheries. Yet the independent report did recognize the fundamental challenges that mixed fisheries faced. This is the independent report carried out for the Commission. Belgium does expressly call for a review of the landing obligation to be carried out in collaboration with the UK, so that we can have uniform rules in the North Sea and the Western waters.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- 2026-06-22 “The effects of climate change are becoming ever stronger. This obliges us to invest more in very high quality, real time data in high resolution, so that we understand the sea. Even better, if we combine this with more developments in precision fishing and further digitization of the sector, we can achieve that ecosystem based approach. Consequently, I am calling with urgency for a more flexible management that continues to focus on selectiveness and on avoiding bycatch at source. But colleagues, we are far from convinced that the way we should do this is by carrying on in the same old way. As I've said in my last speech, we're going to have to reform the landing obligation thoroughly. I also regret that the evaluation keeps on saying that we should be achieving our objectives by means of an even stronger focus on and investment in control and enforcement. Colleagues, I don't believe that. Let us, first and foremost, boost cooperation between scientists and fishers, and let the fishers collect the data for better management and responsible catches. Colleagues, regionalisation as an approach in fisheries is setting a fine example for so many other policy domains. I believe there will be more potential in regionalization if we also involve the regional advisory bodies as partners, not just to consult them, but creating new policy together. Colleagues, our fishing sector is struggling with profitability problems, aging, and a lack of investment options. Ambitious reform is urgent. Belgium promises to apply itself fully to work for a turnaround in how policy is implemented, to make a success of it together. Thank you.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- 2026-06-22 “Thank you. May I thank our German colleagues for tabling this item on the agenda today? Belgium has expressly supported this point. We collectively have to continue to ensure that control regulations are implementable. Application of this absolutely does have a directly direct link to the competitiveness of EU fisheries, and that's why we support this request to pay extra attention to the implementability of rules to avoid duplication and to improve interoperability of IT systems. Finally, let's have particular attention, please, to the impact on SMEs of these measures because it's particularly hard for them. Thank you.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- 2026-06-22 “Thank you. Maria. Olivier. Colleagues, since the surveillance program for the ESP has been implemented under 999 2021, the epidemiological situation has progressed in a very positive manner indeed. In the Member States, the number of cases has reduced drastically. For example, three cases out of 1 million last year. As you know, healthy people have already implemented surveillance systems VI for BSE, and Efsa recommends the alignment of European demands that as a request with those that are requested by the. W.h.o. now the regulation 900 9921 within the omnibus omnibus directive have to be taken into account. I would like to ask the Commission not to wait for the end of the negotiations in order to undertake the necessary measures for the surveillance of BSE. The savings made could be used by the Member States in order to strengthen their surveillance and monitoring systems, or to prevent issues relating to a new zoonosis. Enter the European Union. Thank you.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- 2026-06-22 “Thank you. Maria. I wish to thank the Cyprus Presidency for its wonderful work and performed over the past six months. My remarks will focus on transport. Belgium supports the simplification and modernization of the transport of animals. The regulation on the basis of technological and scientific bases. These must guarantee animal welfare and they must also guarantee the economic competitiveness of European agricultural companies. We wish the Irish Presidency all the best to pursue this task. Thank you very much.”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
- 2026-06-16 “Otherwise we will be talking about a snake eating its tail. We continue to consider the 25% customs duties and other tax income. This is a very important aspect for Belgium. In recent years, the member states have done much to control their spending, and we expect the same of the European Union. A healthy and rational approach to managing public funds as regards the insufficient progress has been made in terms of respecting the constitutional make up of the Member States. Belgium as a federal state is particularly sensitive to this, so we believe it's important to clarify and correct these issues in the Negro box. We continue to support adequate income for our farmers and a specific envelope for cohesion policy to benefit all EU regions. As regards the regulation on the European Competitiveness Fund, discussions we believe have reached the limit of what is acceptable in terms of the allocation criteria for funds. Our conclusion is clear excellence and merit have to be the guiding principles of our approach when it comes to competitiveness. I would just recall the importance within the second pillar of programmes such as Agora EU and Erasmus+, which are key levers in terms of developing education, skills, culture and common values. And finally, Belgium, taking account in particular of the possibility of future EU enlargements, Belgium continues to call for strengthened conditionality when it comes to rule of law. Thank you. Just in time.”
Cohesion and rural funding · EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you Magdalena. Thank you once again to the presidency for all the work. In order to achieve a partial general approach on the main instruments under the next MFF. I have three comments. Firstly, Belgium can support the text proposed by the Cyprus presidency on the ECF. Having said that, it's essential for us that the excellent and performance principles remain so that we can strengthen the Union's competitiveness. Second comment. Belgium also supports the partial general approach for global Europe. This is a solid compromise which reflects Belgium's priorities, which is a fair balance between flexibility and predictability. Welcome strengthening of governance, respect for the specificities of humanitarian action and enlargement, as well as better coherence between our internal and external policies. Finally, on migration, we feel that a good balance has also been struck. Third comment on the NRP regulation. Here we appreciate all of the adjustments made by the presidency, particularly when it comes to the regional dimension of the plans and the changes that were made in order to respect the institutional architecture of member states. These were two essential points for Belgium. However, we regret that the NLP regulation still reflects a approach that is too centralised and does not sufficiently consider the institutional structure of member states and the autonomous role that our federal entities must be able to play when it comes to implementing EU funding. That is why, and it's the only reason why we will have to abstain on that document. We are, however, of the opinion that it is essential to continue to ensure consistency, continuity of payment of cap support when the plans are adopted and will therefore be supporting the Irish presidency in all the difficult work ahead. Thank you.”
EU industrial funding (mechanism level: EU-pooled vs nationally-financed)
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you. Marielena. Mr. Commissioner, dear colleagues, since I am speaking immediately after Slovenia, it's a perfect opportunity to wish our colleague a warm welcome. And indeed, to all the colleagues who have joined us in this General Affairs, uh, format. Having greeted their colleagues yesterday at the Foreign Affairs Council. I would like to very much welcome the work which has been done under the Cyprus presidency, on an issue which is complicated and a thankless task. It's not difficult. It's not easy, rather to to achieve progress on these matters. But you've shown great determination. We would like to wish the very best of luck to the Irish presidency. So hopefully we can reach an agreement by the end of this year. From Belgium's standpoint, we're still examining the new texts of the Negro box with a view to clarifying our final political decision on the MFF, since we don't yet have a unanimous view within the coalition. But it is important to be already clear about the reasoning which led to the 2% reduction and the distribution scale between the four pillars. Research, uh, looking for an appropriate to strike an appropriate balance has to be, uh, the key. We are continuing to study the impact of this on our national budget, a 2% reduction we believe would be totally insufficient for us. An increase to our European contribution cannot go hand in hand with further increasing our structural budget deficit, which the same, very same EU is asking us to reduce as quickly as possible.”
Size of EU budget · EU fiscal rules and oversight of national budgets
- “Thank you. Madam chairman, I'd like to thank the Commission for their in-depth report on the work of the European Labour Authority. Belgium welcomes the conclusions of the report. They really highlight the crucial role of Ela in promoting fair mobility for Labour and also in fighting social dumping in the European Union. This is very much in line with the work which was done last year during the Belgian presidency. I would also, uh, share the points raised by the Netherlands when it comes to posting of workers from third countries, or reinforcing competence when it comes to launching joint concerted inspections. Jci is a clear legal framework, and ambitious mandates are important for the work of this authority. Thank you.”
EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers · EU competences on social policies
- “Good morning to all dear colleagues. Belgium finds it a very important for health and safety. Safety at work. The exposure to limit values at work is a. It requires a socio economic problem. Belgium requires also a coherent work or tasks with the European Union, and that that is a guiding principle for European action. In this way, the files under examination at Epsco should be coherently studied with the strategic analysis of the the and we also have to make efforts in the supply chains that are essential for Europe. These are a key stakes for certain raw materials, such as cobalt. Belgium highlights the importance of supply chain for cobalt in the industry in Belgium. For green technologies, Belgium also calls for co-legislators and the Commission to Beware. Be aware of competitiveness in the industry and the legitimate protection of workers in with the aim of the Trilogues and the socioeconomic and impact assessment will be important to ensure a just balance between industry and other balances. The letter also refer to our position relating to cobalt, which justifies Belgium's position. We will therefore abstain. Thank you.”
EU rules on hazardous working conditions
- “Thank you very much, Jeff. Thank you also for all the work that the Cyprus presidency has done on this. The 20 eighth regime is a priority because it is difficult for companies to set themselves up in another member state to provide a cross border context services in a cross border context, and this has been identified as 1 of the so called terrible 10.
Also, to funding has proved difficult for companies. And the twentieth regime, therefore, is 1 tool among others that can be used to make investments to our market to to attract investments to our market.
We do believe that the level of ambition of the proposal could have been even greater either through further harmonization of the rules applicable to EU companies or by introducing the EU as a supranational legal framework that could have, provided a genuine 20 eighth regime.
Belgium favors a regulation as a legal instrument when it comes to harmonization and favors qualified majority voting to reach an agreement before the end of the year.
We need a solid legal basis in order to ensure legal certainty, particularly in those areas that go beyond company law.
We are in favor of simplification for companies who wish to set themselves up. However, we need to strike the right balance between speed and legal certainty.
We therefore call on adequate preventive controls and additional safeguards to be in place. The text should also clearly link up to the anti money laundering framework and the customer knowledge check framework.
Finally, we would like to draw your attention to the national language legislation, in particular, the language in which statutes are drawn up.
And finally, as my colleagues from Luxembourg and The Netherlands, I would like to refer you to the Bell Benelux nonpaper. Thank you.”
EU Single Market harmonisation
- “Thank you Jan. Okay. First, I would like to once again thank the commission for the package. The discussion we are having right now is very timely. The integration of capital markets is an important and necessary step in the global competition that is currently taking shape. I would like to highlight that Belgium stands very positively towards the Savings and Investments Union, which we see as a key opportunity to strengthen EU competitiveness. Now, moving forward, I would like to express my appreciation for the efforts made by the presidency to advance the negotiation further. It is therefore important that we work quickly indeed, but without rushing. In our view, the package offers room for targeted and pragmatic progress. We are open to support a carve out and fast track approach for clearly defined elements where broad consensus already exists and which can deliver quick, concrete added value. For example, on distributed ledger technology, overall clarity is important. Therefore, regular updates on the overall progress of the discussions are needed within this Council presidency. In response to your second question. Belgium believes that the most effective reforms for mobilizing long term savings are those that strengthen market efficiency and facilitate cross-border investment.”
EU Single Market harmonisation
- “00:54 – 16:03:07): Merci Maridos. Thank you Maridos. Now the priority in Belgium is to strike a balance encouraging innovation to boost productivity and competitiveness while still protecting workers' rights and insisting on the responsibility of employers.
At this stage, in order to get a level playing field across the world, we think it's best to have an international set of recommendations based on the principle that human beings remain in charge rather than having lots of different sets of legislation at national level or European central level. We fully support the ILO and the OECD in this.
In addition to this, we've got to have the European Semester which will enable our council and all our committees to play a full role and which should be set its sight high in bringing in employment and skill aspects so that new technologies can be adopted successfully on the basis of the new recommendation on a human capital which we adopted today.
Specifically, we'd like to have a policy based on activation, employability, and mobility with sustained investment in skills, lifelong learning to help people get through sexual change and technological change.
Now it's essential to focus on young people because some first jobs are particularly exposed to computerization and that can make it difficult for youngsters to get into work all the way through. They need sufficient guidance, work-study contracts, and start-up training and training right the way through the work in line with the market needs.
Now if used properly, AI can help to achieve matching on the labor market and improve the effectiveness of public employment services because you can have better forecast and identification of shortage areas.
None of this, however, will work without having a sound social dialogue at national level, business level, sector level, national level with sound negotiation on how AI should be introduced, clear rules on use, and make sure a proper sharing of the benefits of productivity so that innovation, productivity, and quality can all be mutually reinforcing.”
Artificial Intelligence
- “Thank you very much, everybody. Thank you colleagues. Thank you Commissioner. Let me conclude. The Council has noted the information provided by the German and Austrian delegations, which was also supported [00:24:00] by the Estonian, Finnish, French and Portuguese countries. On country of origin, labelling of foodstuffs. And we've noted the different points raised by the delegations and the Commission.”
Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
- “Thank you, chair. Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, first of all, thank you for the opportunity to exchange ideas on the future work plan on culture. This is a strategic document and an operational one, and it reflects a real view of member states structuring our priorities and talking about our public policy.
The current priorities are relevant and need to be reinforced, particularly looking at what we've already achieved and what the working groups have already achieved. For example, matters of health, for example. Belgium would like to draw everyone's attention to a number of important points without any particular order.
Firstly, access to culture. We absolutely insist on inclusive and meaningful participation, particularly for children and youngsters and having data based approaches to public participation. This was mentioned during the Belgian presidency.
Secondly, AI and culture. Now we recognize that AI offers a number of significant opportunities in the cultural front. Belgium would like to see in-depth discussion on how it can be used responsibly, its environmental impact, what about copyright, fair and ethical rewards for creativity, and maintaining cultural and linguistic diversity? Discoverability of content remains a very important issue. Against this background, we very much welcome the commission study into the world of cultural content in the new AI world. This is vital for national and European policy.
Thirdly, preparing for crises and security and peace. The current work done on this front must be strengthened, particularly looking at the geopolitical and climate challenges which impact our cultural heritage.
Fourthly, we would like to see a strengthening of our European action on international cultural relations, particularly focusing on the strategies and initiatives done by the EU. Against this background, we can see the open coordination method leading to recommendations which can help us to strengthen our future working plan.
Next, regarding investment in cultural strategy. Belgium is in favor of public and private finance into innovation. In Wallonia, we have the START fund, which deals with loans and grants for participation. In Flanders, we have a similar instrument, which is called culture credit. Players on the creative and cultural front who don't have access to normal bank finance can get a cultural loan as long as they are a nonprofit making organization in order to carry out their own investments. This is co financed by the Flemish government, which also is a standard guarantee in case of nonrepayment. In the German speaking agency, we have an agency which deals with support for creative businesses on the financial front.
Finally, methodology. Here, we would like to see a more structured communication on how the work plan can be put into action and how its results can be measured so we can get collective memory on the added value for the member states. We also support a close interplay between this document and the European culture compass.
And in conclusion, we welcome this work plan, and we call for a transparent, structured, and balanced implementation of it. We think it forms a good basis for our joint work. Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Yes, dear colleagues, I'll be brief. Belgium recognises the key role of hydrogen in the decarbonisation of our industry. And at the same time, we note that the current application of Red three, with its highly ambitious targets, is difficult to achieve for member states with limited renewable resources, and it creates real investment risks. Importing green hydrogen is therefore not yet economically viable, not only in Belgium but throughout Europe. Strategic industrial projects that are crucial for the decarbonisation of our industry are at risk of being delayed or halted with this non-paper. We therefore advocate a pragmatic and technology neutral approach to supporting the decarbonisation of Europe's energy intensive industry, in which low carbon hydrogen will also play an important role. Renewable hydrogen will remain essential, but we must use all solutions that effectively reduce emissions. In this way, we can effectively reduce CO2 emissions while maintaining European industrial competitiveness. And Belgium wants to work constructively with the European Commission towards a resilient, low carbon industrial future in Europe and hopes for the support of the other member states around the table. Thank you.”
Low-carbon hydrogen
- “Thank you. Maria. Thank you very much for putting this item on the agenda. Now, generally speaking, Belgium welcomes the Commission's report. The first signals are demonstrating that the directive is having an impact and is improving the trade climate. This is good for our farmers and often they are the weakest link of the chain. However, some elements could be improved. We should also raise awareness via awareness raising campaigns and reducing the fear factor. It would also be good to see how a greater harmonisation in the EU could be attained, and how we could reduce risks now, nationally speaking. We need to increase the transparency in trade on the basis of a sectoral agreements that are standardised. The public bids procedure is centralised in Belgium, and this has to be done for all farming sectors, and it should be standardised for every sector. Now, as to the revision of the directive, the Commissioner should be more dynamic in terms of the list of banned practices and should be aware of ways of circumventing the directive. The farmers should not feel forced to sell below the manufacturing cost, and this is an important fact.”
EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
- “Chair and colleagues. Yes. We share what the Netherlands has said in terms of European regulation for the personal mobility devices and also the various issues that have arisen with these PMDs. And we welcome European harmonization on this in order to have any sort of fragmentation of the market, which may be in line with national requirements. We need to have a single market reinforcement, therefore, and to stimulate European growth with European manufacturers, and also to provide benefits for European citizens to have the same standards and safety established. Thank you.”
"Buy European" provisions
- “Thank you. Yes. Dear colleagues, I should like to thank Czechia for this initiative. I believe that distinction should be drawn between meat based and plant based vegetarian products. This should protect those in the meat production sector and also better informed consumers. This regulation should ideally be carried out at European level, taking into account the fact that traditional names for animal based products may vary in different regions. Having said this, Belgium would like to recall that the legal basis for this is the regulation on consumer information on foodstuffs.”
Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
- “Thank you. Alexis. Colleagues for Belgium. As for all member states, their climate resilience is not an abstract debate. We had terrible floods in July 2021, which really made their mark on the collective memory. It was a devastating event, but it was also a turning point, raising awareness of how urgently we need to act in the area of climate adaptation. Resilience is no longer just an environmental add on. It's a matter of security, economic continuity and social stability. Belgium thus supports the development of a European framework for climate resilience. We see real added value in strengthening coherence, in improving the comparability of risk analyses, and also in developing better anticipation at EU level. However, experience has taught us one other thing. When the crisis happens, what matters most is preparation and implementation. A number of member states, including Belgium, at federal and regional level, have recently carried out significant climate risk assessments and are making forward steps when it comes to adaptation strategies. The European framework should be based on this. We feel that it's clear what the right balance should be a limited number of obligations, which are fundamentally proportionate and results based. And beyond that, we need flexibility. We would support the idea of having a full territorial coverage via adaptation strategies and plans, adopting that by an agreed deadline and basing this on climate risk analysis.”
EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
- “Thank you, Mr. President. I agree with Slovakia. We need to protect our farmers better and strengthen them, particularly when we're dealing with unfair trade practices in the food chain. And indeed, in 2024, I took the initiative on behalf of Belgium to push for Proposals which we adopted to complete the list on the UTP, to ban sale at loss, or going under production costs, unless there is a clear agreement that doesn't oblige the purchaser to do so. Thank you.”
EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
- “And that allows me to move on to the next point. On the next point, under AOB, the Commission will give us an overview on the state of play, on the preparation of the communication, on the implementation of the Lgtbq equality strategy that was published in November 2020. [00:09:30] All citizens are equal in the EU, and they should live in freedom and free from discrimination in all forms. Equality and non-discrimination are fundamental values of the European Union. They are enshrined in the treaty and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. Over the past decades, progress has been booked to protect the rights of LGBTQ persons, and unfortunately, discrimination is still a sad reality [00:10:00] for these persons who are, um, the subject of hate and homophobic, um, speech. Equal treatment is not just theoretical. It is our responsibility to for us to make it a specific reality. The European strategy is a very important phase within the context of our combat against inequality. It allows us to face the, um, the, [00:10:30] the challenges that Lgbtiq persons have to deal with. Uh, we need to analyse the results. And so, um. I'm very pleased that the Commission can now give us an overview of the situation, commissioner Marie Colvin”
LGBTIQ+
- “Thank you very much. I don't see anyone else asking for the floor, so we can conclude that the council takes note of the information provided by the Commission on the State of Play, of preparing the communication for implementing the 20 to 25 equality strategy for LGBTQ. [00:16:00]
***Communication on progress made in implementing the EU antiracism action plan – state of play”
LGBTIQ+
- “Now, in addition to this structure, the content and the methodologies have to remain indicative. Adaptation is by nature territorial and has to fully respect the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. In the current economic and geopolitical context, resilience policy has to bolster competitiveness, confidence in investment and the purchasing power of our citizens and not create new administrative burdens. And above all, member states who are precursors. Early movers should not be penalised. Member states in regions which have already massively invested in risk analyses and adaptation strategies, should see their efforts recognised and showcased. The framework should encourage progress and not take people back to square one. Finally, financing will be crucial. Belgium supports strong and clearly indicated role for the life program in the future policy here. Public and private investment here via EIB and looking for market based solutions at European level to address, uh, the deficit in terms of insurance coverage. So colleagues, let's come up with a framework which provides real protection. Belgium is prepared to work constructively with all delegations and the commission to achieve this balance. Thank you.”
EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
- “Thank [00:28:00] you. Thank you, dear president, for the opportunity. And I would like to thank all the colleagues for their expressions of condolences of the with regard to the terrible act that happened in, in Brussels, and as I already did also, of course, my condolences to France and other member States that have been affected. I already spoke with Ylva and Gunnar because of course, the Swedish victims that were victim [00:28:30] of the attack in Brussels need to be remembered and respected, and I think that will be for later on on this agenda that we need to discuss how we can strengthen our security services, exchange of information. And that brings me to this topic. I express also my the sympathy of Belgium for the proposal. I think it is a result of hard work already and a balance. We are still examining [00:29:00] the right balance between law enforcement and privacy. The tools that are provided for in the draft directive. But I think it's important that we make a statement because we need to protect our children, taking also into account the privacy of these children. I think that's an argument that we also need to put in the mix of all the arguments. Like for other topics, the balance between privacy and security is a [00:29:30] very delicate one that needs to be examined, in my view, on an ad hoc basis. But I think it's good. Dear Fernando, that you have made progress and you can count on Belgium too, to be with you, and will also make it work and a priority during the Belgian Belgian presidency. As of the 1st of January. Thank you.”
Privacy & detection of online child abuse
- “Thank you Mary. As requested, I will concentrate my answers on the two questions we got. So regarding the first one, the starting point for Belgium is respect for our institutional and constitutional framework. It is crucial that the regions central role be preserved and that the principles of shared management, multi-level governance and territorial approach be fully respected. Member States must be responsible. Responsible for defining and organizing. Organizing, organizing. Sorry. The role and functions of the coordinating authority and the identification, implementation, and evaluation of reforms and investments must happen at the adequate institutional level. On the second question, we agree with the overall ambition of a modern, simplified and flexible MMF. Treaty based policies should be given more than visibility. We must ensure that the objectives of agriculture, fisheries and cohesion policies are fully attained. We need separate instruments with dedicated financing for agriculture and fisheries in order to reach the twin objectives of food security and fair, adequate and sufficient revenues. Funding in support of both revenues and rural development must be allocated correctly, taking into account the specificities of Member States. A reformed cohesion policy must, through a dedicated budget, continue to provide funding for all European regions with attention to the least developed regions. I reiterate that we need to draw lessons from the experience. Procedures in the NRP will have to be simpler, with less administrative burden and proportionate in terms of the relation between the size of the allocation and the extent of reforms required. I thank you.”
MFF structural design: single consolidated fund vs. separate ring-fenced instruments
- “Cyber violence, forced marriage, gender mutilation. This defines also the rights of the victims and to provide a better protection for them. We can now adopt the Parliament position [00:05:30] in sections 33 stroke 24. Denmark does not participate in the directive and is not bound to it or its application. The results of the vote are now available on the screen. I'm really quite moved to see that we do have a qmv and [00:06:00] that the directive is now adopted. So I think we can be very pleased by this major stride that we've made to realize or to make gender equality a reality. And now we can move on to the regulation on establishing [00:06:30] the Reform and growth facility for the Western Balkans. This facility helps our Western Balkan partners to undertake reforms for their growth and their convergence. So with the European Union through ambitious reform programmes. The facility also encourages the alignment of the partners with the values, the laws, the rules, the policies and practices of the union with [00:07:00] a view to future accession. The Council is to adopt the European Parliament position as in Picone's 80, stroke 24 and the Joint Statement of Council and Parliament as in document 90 405, stroke 24, addendum one and two. The results of the vote are now available.
[00:07:27] I we we [00:07:30] now have a qmv and the regulation is adopted. The joint statement is also adopted. The Council has now adopted the legislative deliberative deliberation items as indicated in the document 9268 stroke 24. And so now I would like to move on to the horizontal [00:08:00] directive on the on implementing the principle of equal treatment. This has been on the table since 2008. This directive aims to complete the legislative framework to combat discrimination against um based on um, sex, religion, um, gender, um, and it covers the access to social protection and social [00:08:30] security and health, education, goods and services, and housing discrimination, harassment and incitement to discrimination is on the rise in all these areas. And for and this is on the rise in our societies. The figures are disconcerting, not just because we have persistent, um, discrimination, but also because the figures are going in the wrong direction. And we cannot deny this reality [00:09:00] that because this undermines our fundamental values, it's up to us as ministers in charge of this file, but also the responsibility of our governments to protect our fundamental values. And we can do this in particular by assuring common minimum protection against discrimination and harassment for all citizens of the European Union. Francis White. Equality is the soul [00:09:30] of liberty. There is no liberty without it. We're aware of the various efforts of stakeholders, and the Belgian presidency would like to make this file much more topical.
[00:09:46] It's it's it's almost 16 years that that the commission proposal was, um, uh, put forth and the we have not reached unanimity on this file. We've had [00:10:00] very constructive and intense discussions with you, and I'd like to thank you for those. The text, the compromise text on the table provides for more legal certainty, allows for more guarantees in terms of respecting the principle of subsidiarity. And, um, the budgetary cost has been reduced because there are, um, protections that that are already enshrined in other legislation that will come into play. But unfortunately [00:10:30] we have not reached the unanimity necessary to adopt the directive. I'd like to take this opportunity to discuss with you how we can bring this to fruition. Are there still objections? What are the obstacles standing in the way of adopting this very necessary legislation? The presidency in 1994 stroke 24. Um, provided you with a steering note for today's discussion, [00:11:00] and I'd like to ask you which additional measures are necessary so that we can have a general approach during the Belgian presidency, taking into consideration the heightened discrimination in the areas that covered by the draft, um, legislation. I would like to give the floor now to the Commission Commissioner. Dalli, the floor is yours.”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion
- “Thank you, Madam Chair. Colleagues, I'd like to thank the commission. In particular, Commissioner Labib, for presenting these two strategies. Equality and combating discrimination is still at the heart of European action and the values that really characterize us. The new gender equality strategy is part of ongoing work over the last few years. We support an approach that combines targeted actions and systematic mainstreaming of gender in all public policies, in particular when it comes to gender based violence and women's involvement on the labour market. We also welcome the new EU anti-racism Strategy data shows that discrimination is still a fact for many people, and so it's vital that we continue our efforts, particularly rolling out anti-discrimination legislation and fostering inclusion in key areas such as employment, education and housing. Belgium is pleased to continue this work with the Commission and the Member States to make sure that these strategies can be made into deliverables.”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion · EU policy on integration and ethnic, racial and religious discrimination
- “Thank you, Jose Manuel. In general terms, Belgium shares the concerns and the issues that you have raised in your AOB point. It's important that we have a full range of tools and instruments that are properly adapted and adequate funding to quickly respond to catastrophes and climate related events. I also support the request being made to the Commission to present a strategy for risk management for climate events in the agriculture and forestry sectors. Prevention and adaptation are both very important. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “The transparency of the supply chain has been the object of Belgium's attention. We have created a monitoring system that registers the producers, and as to the transfer of the risk of a disproportionate costs are for farmers, while Belgium has emitted a clause for a disloyal practices, and there is also an abusive practice clause. Because as such practices mean that the contracting parties have have issues and this leads to unfair practices. There is a grey list as a result, and this bears takes into account the risks. These risks should usually be the responsibility of one of the contracting parties. But in a in a system in which the system is not operating properly, the risks are transferred to the wrong parties. Now there is an, as I said, a grey list of unfair practices, and this would allow the risk not to be transferred to the farmers and it could also be could also target the cap market. Belgium looks forward to the, um to the upcoming information from the Commission concerning this matter, and also looks forward to the Commission taking into account farmers concerns. Thank you.”
EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
- “Thank you very much to the presidency for having organised this exchange of views. In answer to the first two questions, we need to take account of the growing concerns in civil society and to strengthen trust in our regulatory process. Our strategy remains very necessary and topical, and this with a view to achieving our zero pollution goals. Revising the Reach regulation should be a priority to ensure that European industry is competitive. At this stage in the process, whilst ensuring high protection for health and the environment, this requires updating the regulation to bring it into line with existing challenges and to ensure that it can take account of the latest scientific developments. We have to support SMEs and new cutting edge industries so that they can benefit from their investments and enjoy fair competitive conditions. Conditions particularly with respect to imported products, Belgium supports an ambitious and pragmatic approach with respect to PFAS, and we would call on the commission to take measures as quickly as possible in order to ban uses for which there are effective alternatives. If there should be an exemption, it should be time limited. We call on the commission to to revise and update as quickly as possible the organisational framework for Echa, and to provide sufficient sustainable resources to ensure its full independence. In answer to the third question, it's a complex issue. There is a lot at stake. I can only invite the commission to work with and and consult the Member States before publishing any legislative proposals. Finally, the European Union should play a worldwide leadership role and should be a pioneer in taking strong measures against double standards with firm measures, particularly in respect of the exports of chemical products which are banned in our own countries.”
Chemicals regulation
- “This is a territorial mechanism, and for that reason, we need enough flexibility so that we can adapt to local rural realities and the different components thereof. But there isn't just one form of rural life. There are many different ones. Now, when it comes to rural development, the leader program that we have in the Cap is a lever for tackling challenges and helping communities. However, leader can't deal with all those things. The rural proofing should not be limited to evaluations of the Cap strategic plan. It's an important instrument, the purpose of which is to ensure that structural policies do not make it impossible to carry out local initiatives. The result of leader projects could contribute to the rural proofing mechanism, allowing us to improve things from the by looking through a rural lens at situations, because I think it's important to have innovations made permanent over time, things that actually have emerged from the leader program. And for that reason, Belgium feels that solutions have to be implemented once we have completed projects in order to ensure continuity and cooperation and to ensure long term success of rural initiatives. Thank you for listening.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- “Thank you chair. And thank you, Executive Director, for sharing your insights with us today. Environmental multilateralism is facing profound challenges. Yet climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution do of course not recognize borders. No single country can tackle them alone. Crisis can, however, also be opportunities to work more effectively. We welcome in that spirit the ongoing efforts of the UN Secretary General as part of the UN initiative in the present context. We need to reaffirm the virtue of dialogue. Engagement is key to strengthening bridges between nations in pursuit of a shared vision, a vision which is grounded in science. 2025 provides us with strong opportunities to show that environmental multilateralism is effective and can still score major achievements. One of them being the ongoing plastics treaty negotiations. These negotiations are critical, and I want to thank you, Executive Director, for your leadership in the matter. Your guidance will be essential in the coming months in setting the stage for Inc. 5.2 in Geneva this summer. To achieve success at these negotiations, we must make best use of the months ahead. We stand ready to engage with the Stand Up for Ambition Coalition as well as the like minded countries. We also need to reach out to those who have not participated in recent informal initiatives, and are grateful for any support that you could give. Executive director to encourage broader participation for foreign see to be successful, we must identify common grounds on key treaty elements beforehand. Much attention has been given to production, plastic products and means of implementation. However, the issue of decision making by the Future conference of the parties has not received sufficient attention so far, and we are concerned that a few countries block progress for the large majority for future amendments to annexes to the treaty, as well as other Cop decisions. Thank you.”
EU position at multilateral environmental negotiations
- “Thank you very much, Peter. It's Belgium, followed by Denmark and then the Czech Republic.
**Belgium Dear Maria, thank you very much for having put this point on the agenda. And welcome to the new Dutch and Belgian colleagues. Christophe, Belgium would like to thank the commission for this first implementation. The priorities are still pertinent and we need to have new actions. As far as the initiatives that have already been undertaken, I think progress cover very important priority areas. For example, an observatory of arable land may help us to find solutions in the longer term. This goes hand in hand with a strategy to renew generational takeover of the agricultural sector. We need to to reinforce the position of farmers in the value chain and the fight against unfair practices. And we hope that this will lead to an improvement in the situation of farmers. As to the future, we'd like to focus on the following points. The recent geopolitical developments may have very serious consequences, and particularly with regard to inputs, and we hope that the Commission will take the necessary steps if necessary. Fertiliser prices are subject to wild fluctuations and we need to have a structural approach. Belgium is particularly attentive to the action programme for fertilisers as well as for livestock farming. This should lead to increasing and improving profitability of the sector, taking into account regional differences. There may be way way of using our system in order to reduce our dependency on chemical fertilisers. There are new challenges for farmers and there are more ambitious objectives we need to fix. We think that there should be a sufficient budget for caps so that we can have a long term, sustainable future. The budget should allow us to carry out the necessary investments in farming and to ensure training of farmers.”
Use of fertilisers
- “Thank you. Colleagues, we believe the compromise emerging so far is broadly balanced, and Belgium stands ready to show the flexibility needed to successfully conclude the negotiations at the next trilogue. However, we remain extremely concerned about extending market exclusivity for orphan products. These already represent 13% of Belgian pharmaceutical spending, almost €1 billion, so any extra exclusivity could have major budgetary and access implications. We understand the Intention to limit this to break through innovation. But the concept must be framed in a very strict way. It should apply only where there is truly no authorized or de facto standard of care in any member state, including off label use, and must not be obtainable through artificial subpopulation slicing. Thank you for your attention.”
Pharma IPRs
- “Thank you. Mary. Lina. You can keep your headphones on. I will speak in French. Just to vary things a little bit. I'll speak French. Um, from Belgium standpoint, we support a modern flexible MFF to meet the challenges of the future. And let us be clear, the primary concern, primary priority for Europe is now is to show its ability to develop its own strategic autonomy in the geo strategic sphere. We have seen what our weaknesses are. So it is obvious now that the European budget Git of the future has to take account of these new challenges. Need to ensure greater strategic autonomy in defence and security in terms of competitiveness as well. Technological autonomy and energy. Autonomy as well. Food, uh, autonomy and security. And in the health field as well. We have, of course, the issue of own resources on which, uh, Belgium hasn't yet entirely made up its mind, but it is clear that choices will have to be made. Uh, and this, these choices should not be detrimental to our competitiveness, which is already under pressure as a net contributor. We are very much aware of the budgetary implications and let's call a spade a spade. The projections on the table now from the European Commission, we believe, are not reasonable in and disproportionate.”
Size of EU budget
- “Thank you. Chairman. Dear Pascal. Well, first of all, I'd like to really thank you very much for all the effort that you and your teams have put into this so as to align the member states position in this. And we know this is a very politically sensitive issue. Having heard from all the delegations. I think we can say that there is a broad consensus for a reinforced role for the European Commission, not just when it comes to inspections and inquiries in the member states, but also when it comes to decision making. And obviously, we will take that into consideration as much as possible as we follow up on this. Looking for a level playing field and an efficient and sustainable governance means that we have to have a consistent approach which will fully respect fundamental human rights. And with your help, we will work towards a general approach and start negotiations with the European Parliament with a view to reaching a political agreement still under the Belgian presidency. Thank you.”
EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
- “But we've got to make sure that strategic investments are essential in order to be able to ensure the trust of the investors, mobilise private capital and also stay assured sustainable development. So these aspects are going to be able to improve the trust of the companies and of the investors. Decarbonization of industrial activities and clean technology aspects are absolutely obvious as far as resilience and the competitiveness of the companies, and we've got to make sure that long term, as far as climate is concerned, and climate will be able to make sure that it's relevant with regard to investors and companies. The PMS have got to have specific support through this fund, which will differentiate from the help for small mid-caps midcaps, and with regard to attribution, the fund has got to be able to have a financing for the most promising projects according to their merit and excellence in research and innovation. And to finish. Commissioner Belgium is interested to know whether the Commission actually envisages, with regard to the financial administrative food, to associate with the classical criteria of evaluation, the non-financial criteria which will reflect the sustainability of the companies.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Belgium welcomes the constructive and tireless work that has been performed. Thank you very much. Also to the Commission. Some progress has been reached concerning this text. As indicated, we support the 90% emissions limit for 2040, but only if a clear and credible guarantees and are provided. But this is not yet the case. Sir. We, uh, we want a pragmatic, uh, compromise that focuses on climate as well as competitiveness. And we shall participate constructively to the exchanges today. We want the citizens and businesses to adhere to this, uh, transition. Thank you very much.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you very much, Minister, and thank you very much and congratulations to you and the Swedish presidency for an excellent job of work. The proposed text establishes [00:26:30] a good balance between the various positions, and it also represents the best possible outcome for certain difficult points, such as the one that has to do with the repair clause. The text also bring on board the necessary guarantees to the coexistence of national protection systems for designs and models. And so we're pleased that the [00:27:00] administrative invalidity procedures have been kept on board as optional measures rather than obligatory ones. This was important for the Benelux. We support the general approach and we'd like to see a quick adoption in the next trilogues.”
Intellectual property rights (IPR)
- “Thank you, colleagues. The Council has taken note of the information provided by the Dutch delegation, and we'd like to thank them for that.
***International Conference ‘Towards the recovery of the culture sector of Ukraine’ from 6 – 7 June 2024 in Vilnius, Lithuania”
EU and national cultural identities
- “In the name of Belgium. I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the way in which the Swedish presidency has steered this file so close to the finish line. We believe this act can bring tangible benefits to our businesses and citizens. [00:12:30] It will effectively boost trust in the cybersecurity of products and by extension, in the digital transition itself. Given the importance of the file for Belgium, we are happy with the direction of this file and we are pleased to see that some of our key concerns have been taken on board. The first one being proportionality. We have sought to balance the burden on all markets and especially on our small and medium enterprise SMEs. But in order to guarantee [00:13:00] a level playing field for all manufacturers across the Union, we must carefully design conformity assessment to avoid creating new obstacles in the future. In the same sense, the CRA must complement the certification framework of the Cybersecurity Act. The second principle is transparency. Making more information available for consumers has been one of our main goals. In particular, when it comes to [00:13:30] security updates, which would be provided automatically by default while informing the user how long he will receive them and how to turn them off. Finally, it's important to stress that the act also concerns open source software on which we rely heavily to digitise our societies. As authorities, we will have to actively inform developers of what this act would and more importantly, what it would not mean for them. It's [00:14:00] clear that we do not intend to impact the non-commercial supply of open source software. We give our full support to the upcoming Spanish presidency to take this further. Thank you.”
Scope of EU cybersecurity obligations
- “Thank you. We very much welcome the adoption of these Council conclusions. And to ensure now that the comprehensive approach to mental health, as advocated by Stella and the Commission, leads to [00:09:00] clear and elaborate action plans or strategies by the Member States, it's imperative that indeed we now start implementation. We thereby should pay specific attention to vulnerable groups as to leave no one behind. We also appreciate the request to receive an overview document on the flagship initiatives included in the comprehensive approach, as well as a timetable and the allocated financial budget for their implementation. This will [00:09:30] help us to develop our national plans and strategies. Finally, our strategies, our plans, our measures should be based on scientific evidence, and looking at the best buys can help here to ensure that the effort and resources do result in effective outcomes. To conclude, I am happy to share with you that under the Belgian Council Presidency, the Belgian Minister of Employment will organise a [00:10:00] conference on mental health and work on the 30th and 31st of January. Thank you for your attention.”
EU policy on mental health
- “Thank you. President. Colleagues. [00:46:30] Commissioners. First of all, obviously, I would like to thank the Spanish presidency for placing this item on the agenda, namely, improving the working conditions of cultural and creative professionals. Good working conditions are essential if we are to have a healthy and lively cultural industry. And fair pay is a crucial question for which all stakeholders have to shoulder responsibility. In Belgium, responsibilities for culture lie with the three regions, and [00:47:00] I'll refer to the various initiatives being taken by the various regions. In Flemish policies, fair pay and fair practice are enshrined. Good pay is important not only to create good working conditions, but also to retain talent given worldwide competition. Applying these principles of fair practice and fair pay for artists are included as one of the criterion for assessing subsidy applications for cultural organisations in the new Arts degree in Flanders in [00:47:30] the French Community. Support for the artists sector is linked to the quality and the quantity of artistic employment, and visual arts are linked to good pay and a remuneration scheme. And the last thing we have the German language. Community where cultural is supported by. One decree. They receive lump sums for employment and staff costs, provided [00:48:00] that they generate at least 20% of their annual income. There are also grants to acknowledging artists working time at federal level. We have a newly adopted piece of legislation which provides social protection to artists because of the very irregular and uncertain nature of their work. European level is important to exchange good practice in information between member states that promotes understanding and greater mobility. [00:48:30] We can also build further on initiatives that have already been begun at European level. Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “And even. But we don't have very much time. So I would like to ask the delegations to be brief. When they take the floor, we have an information point from the French delegation of the selection of Bourget as the European Capital of Culture for 2028. As you probably already know, in 2028 there are three cultural capitals Bourget. Ceske Budejovice. Ceské Budejovice in the Czech Republic and Skopje [00:00:30] in North Macedonia. Burgess was the last one to be selected, and so I'd like to give the floor to the French delegation colleague. The floor is yours.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “We must overcome the current difficulties. Belgium welcomes the farm stewardship proposal. This measure should, however, be simpler than force conditionality and must ensure that we can align this with national rules and to bring about adequate, uh, financial compensation. At this stage, it is difficult to express our views on simplification for the green architecture. Budgetary, um, funds have been limited, but it is absolutely essential for administrative burden to be considerably reduced and that for procedures to be, um, lessened so that these projects can be implemented in a more efficient manner. Regarding the second question, Belgium underscores that equality among member states is fundamental. It appears that the contribution to the cap to biodiversity and environmental objectives is included in the 43% of the financial budget as part of the NPS, and the obligation for a national co-funding for 30% as part of all the green architecture lacking because of a lack of green ring fencing that is specific to the CPE, requires that every member state, based on their budgets, will be able to develop more or less this green architecture. We must take into account the risk of distortion that might take place amongst European farmers. We want an understandable cap that is fair and that will accompany farmers in responding to environmental and climate, uh, difficulties without weakening their economic status. We must avoid, uh, sudden ruptures with the past and look at what we have achieved so far. Thank you.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you, Madam Chair. Colleagues, I'd like to thank the commission. In particular, Commissioner Labib, for presenting these two strategies. Equality and combating discrimination is still at the heart of European action and the values that really characterize us. The new gender equality strategy is part of ongoing work over the last few years. We support an approach that combines targeted actions and systematic mainstreaming of gender in all public policies, in particular when it comes to gender based violence and women's involvement on the labour market. We also welcome the new EU anti-racism Strategy data shows that discrimination is still a fact for many people, and so it's vital that we continue our efforts, particularly rolling out anti-discrimination legislation and fostering inclusion in key areas such as employment, education and housing. Belgium is pleased to continue this work with the Commission and the Member States to make sure that these strategies can be made into deliverables.”
EU policy on integration and ethnic, racial and religious discrimination · Gender roles, equality and inclusion
- “Thank you, Cheslav. And thank you also to Christoph for the commission, for the presentation. Now. In summary, all we can do is support the objectives in the roadmap by simplifying the cap generational renewal balance standards, consistent standards that affect that avoid competitive distortion, and also focusing on the livestock sector. What's missing, I think, is a reference to this regional specificities when it comes to the future of the Cap. Belgium would like to say that resources and instruments which are specific and appropriate, will be needed in order to achieve the various ambitious objectives. As the Strategic Dialogue report said on the future of the Cap and the Council conclusions adopted under the Hungarian Presidency. We will need a dedicated budget for the Cap. So that was our position in brief.”
Agricultural funding
- “Thank you. President. Belgium would like to focus on three priorities to strengthen the implementation of the Msfd. Reporting, surveillance and measures regarding reporting. Belgium supports the Commission and its efforts of simplification and harmonisation of the obligations of reporting on the marine environment, without this being to the detriment of environmental ambitions. Belgium recommends increased cooperation among environmental authorities and funding and research authorities institutions, rather so as to prepare a group work within the European Partnership Programme. This would enable us to work cooperatively in implementing the Msfd, particularly in terms of surveillance and measures, this in cooperation with regional Uh maritime areas and with intensive uses of the sea and stakeholders. The measures so far are experimental and must be tested, preferably in a coordinated manner across Europe and respected by all users of the sea. Belgium underscores the importance of as many participants as possible, including public and private stakeholders, by contributing not only to research, but also on automated automated automation, surveillance and an feasible pact. Thank you.”
EU ocean policy
- “Thank you very much, chair, vice president of the committee, colleagues. We thank the Cyprus presidency for its partial general approach and the efforts that have been put into this whole process to listen to the points of view of all member states and to come up with a compromise that is the outcome of a collective effort, which responds to common goals, having a program that will allow us to preserve cultural and linguistic diversity, supporting cultural creation and cross border cooperation and strengthening an independent media space, freedom of speech and citizen participation as well as promoting our common values.
Firstly, we welcome the general partial general approach, which deals with each strand in a balanced manner and gives particular attention to specificities and the continuity of the various sectors involved. We also welcome the reference to the governance mechanism. Indeed, a strong decisive program committee that can monitor work in all sectors will allow us to supervise and coordinate actions clearly, coherently, and ambitiously.
We welcome and take note that the current wording improves the coherence and readability of the Agora EU desk. When it comes to the CRV strand, we need to have an ambitious framework which fosters gender equality, which combats violence against women, and which explicitly combats all forms of discrimination, racism, and intolerance.
Lastly, moving forward in the work, we'd all reiterate attention that needs to be put into a fair share of resources with minimum percentage per strand to ensure the coherence and sustainability of the program in all dimensions. Assessment of the Europe Creative Europe program currently shows that predictability of tenders is vital because we need long term planning for cultural and creative projects. Too much flexibility would create uncertainty and would reduce accessibility, including in the audiovisual field. Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you, Luis. Thank you, Peter. It's with great regret that we note the appearance of African swine fever in Sweden. So it's still spreading and we need to keep combating it, finding effective solutions and the services of which have had to deal with [00:12:30] this disease. And our Luxembourg and French colleagues are already in touch with your colleagues. Prevention. Fighting the infection is essential if we want to eradicate this from European territory. So cooperation between Member states is essential to achieve this. Thank you very much.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “First of all, we need to have cross-border cooperation, cultural diversity and innovation and artistic quality need to come to the forefront. We need to have a shared and universal values so that we can, Because these values are under pressure internationally and in Europe. We need to have a proper cooperation across policy areas, and we need to draw attention to specific resources for culture and media. It needs to be visible and guaranteed for the whole programming period. We also accessed for client organisations. We need, for example, to provide 100% financing and pre-financing for the drafting of, uh, of applications. We see a great EU rule for innovation, particularly with artificial intelligence. And to stimulate cooperation, we need to compete on content and not on technology or infrastructure. We need to defend our strategic cultural infrastructure, including local media landscape and independent media, as well as local creative ecosystems. And finally, uh, once again, a reminder for us all about the impact of social media, and particularly the impact it has on our younger generations. And I would like to draw I would like this council to pay attention to that issue. Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you. Jacob and Christoph, thank you for the information that you've just given us. The Cap proposal aims to overcome major challenges such as food security and competitiveness. I have to underline that these ambitions will only be reached with a strong, understandable and sufficiently funded cap. Regarding the cap measures, these have been subdivided in various regulations. This fragmentation makes it complicated for Member states and farmers. To understand these texts. We propose a single text that would comprise all articles, and this would ensure better and more streamlined implementation. The cap must be a clear tool. Christoph, regarding the first question, the green transition will only be implemented only if it is not perceived as a limitation. The elements of this green architecture therefore must be simpler to understand. This is a fundamental principle. Belgium calls for simplification and stability in all the proposed texts by reducing um, reducing administrative burden and monitoring processes. This will encourage farmers to adopt practices that are beneficial to the environment and climate. It is difficult to ascertain at the moment if the proposal is actually in line with the WTO proposals and objectives. We must make sure that the toolkit is easy to understand and easy to implement, but climate objectives vary depending on member states, and member states must be able to choose how to implement these measures. We must also ensure that measures are fair for everybody, taking into account uh, member state specificities is also equal is also important.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you. Chair. The steel, Steel and Metals Action Plan was an important step in the right direction. However, it will remain incomplete without decisive action on energy and without fully recognising the role of SMEs in subcontracting value chains on energy. The cbam, of course, helps to level the playing field, but it cannot replace access to electricity that is competitive, affordable and predictable, which is essential for industrial resilience. On SMEs, major industrial projects should be encouraged to set out clearly how they will involve SMEs. This must go hand in hand with clear incentives, including mechanisms to de-risk high investment costs, and it should be complemented by practical support enabling SMEs to meet industrial requirements, quality standards, certification, cybersecurity as well as access to testing and pre-production facilities. This approach must apply to all metal value chains. We should strengthen Europe's recycling capacities and carefully assess any potential restrictions on scrap exports. Turning to chemicals, the European chemical industry faces a very real and immediate risk of closures if energy costs remain high, if global competition stays distorted and if demand continues to weaken. Once again, the energy dossier is key. Our priority must therefore be to ensure access to affordable, secure and predictable energy combined with coordinated action on raw materials and critical inputs. In this regard, we look forward to the results of the work carried out by the Critical Chemicals Alliance.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Dear colleagues. 10,000. That's the number of industrial jobs that we have lost in a small country like Belgium in one single year. So what we are talking about today, it's it's not only the future of our industry, it's the future of our democracies. And it's also the future of our innovation here in Europe, because we know that when industry leaves, it's a whole ecosystem of innovation that also leaves our continent. And so Belgium welcomes the Commission's initiative to put forward a legislative proposal aimed at preserving industrial jobs, sustainable industry and valuable industrial capacity in Belgium and in Europe. We support the Midwest Europe approach, provided that a set of conditions are met and in particular with respect to reciprocity, the Industrial Acceleration Act and all new EU legislation in general must be streamlined, coordinated and evaluated. Please keep it simple and stable and harmonised. This is key to a better functioning and a more competitive single market, as well as driving acceleration in industrial investments and decarbonisation. We have general questions regarding the exact scope and concerns regarding the complexity of the IAA, including its administrative burden and unforeseen impact on the whole value chain, especially for SMEs. For Belgium, the principle of free market forces remain a guiding principle. While acknowledging that the use of public procurement and other public support schemes as a targeted strategic and economic lever can be necessary to safeguard our economic and strategic security interests, particularly when the competitive position of our companies is under pressure. Thank you.”
"Buy European" provisions (generic)
- “Colleagues, thank you for reminding us of how important SMEs are for competitiveness. I'm speaking here as a minister but also as a former entrepreneur. The European Competitiveness Funds, Belgium believes, is a political and structural step forward for SMEs. It places them at the heart of the mechanism to make sure they have effective and balanced access. All SMEs, that is, to this fund. And to mechanisms such as the ipcs. There are three main things we need to focus on today. Firstly, the ECF should focus on all SMEs, whether start ups or scale ups or more traditional SMEs such as those involved in craftsmanship, services or industry. And I'd like to remind you of the think small first principle here, which means that administrative burdens can be reduced and we can avoid pointless requests for funds, which is a real problem that SMEs face. There are initiatives such as the 28th regime and the European Innovation Act, which can be powerful tools to help achieve these goals. I'd also like to welcome the fact that defence has been given such an important place within the ECF. Indeed, it can boost European SMEs Competitiveness in international defence markets, whether as pilots or as subcontractors.”
Overall simplification of regulation in the EU