Government of Denmark

Policy topics Government of Denmark is active on

What Government of Denmark has said (80)

• 2026-07-14 “Okay. Thanks very much. Thanks. Lars? Lars? Very short because I think you deserve every action. I just want to express that I'm very happy with the priorities presented by your presidency. And I'm pleased to see the strong alignment with the priorities of the Danish and Cyprus presidency last year and until this summer. So I just want to, on behalf of, I guess, all colleagues, to wish you all the best with your presidency, and and you can count on close cooperation from all of us.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-07-13 “31:33 - 15:32:40): Thank you. We support giving greater attention to the role of women in agriculture. It's important to promote recruitment, young farmers, and equal opportunities across the agri food sector. We believe that the common agricultural policy can contribute to making it easier for young farmers to establish themselves and develop viable farm businesses. This includes creating better opportunities for innovation, skills development, and sustainable business models. This would make the sector more attractive to a broader and more diverse group of farmers. From our perspective, strengthening the long term attractiveness and resilience of agriculture goes hand in hand with supporting the green transitions. We therefore see value in targeting agricultural supports towards green transition, development of local and small scale farming and young farmers. Thank you. Thank you, Jesper. And finally, Lars, Sweden.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• 2026-07-10 “15:37 - 11:16:48): Thank you so much, Simon. Denmark thanks the Irish presidency for continuing the ambitious work and the market integration and supervision package and also Cyprus for their hard work advancing this file. The saving and investment union remains a high priority for the new government in Denmark and that is because as many of my colleagues and you have mentioned effectively mobilizing savings and investments in the EU will support growth and competitiveness. Denmark supports the progress in this agenda, and our focus remains on ensuring that the package delivers well documented benefits for market participants and the additional areas of supervision are centralized and remains efficient, proportionate and risk based, And we must work hard on achieving this. We therefore support giving a mandate to the technical level to draft the compromise text ahead of the EcoFin in October where we should be able to reach the final compromise. In our view, we find that 4 issues mentioned in the steering note particularly need further work in order for that to happen. 1st, the scope of entities that will come under ESMA supervision should be limited to entities that are larger and generally cross border. And the criteria must be clear, proportionate and applied on individual entry levels. Secondly, is the governance of ESMA, the future and direct supervisory framework. We think that a final compromise must include a clear division of tasks and competencies between ESMA and national competent authorities, including that national competent authorities should not be a part of the day to day supervisory work when we transfer competencies to ESMA. But of course, they should be kept informed in order to minimize transactional cost and them getting away of each other. 3rd issue is the independent executive board. We support the new independent executive board, but stronger central powers must be accompanied by a strong accountability and appropriate checks and balances. The new executive board members should therefore not hold voting rights within the Board of Supervisors. Moreover, consideration should be given to the geographical distribution of members in the new executive board. 4th and finally, I want to raise is the resources of ESMA where we need to agree on an appropriate budget and hence an oversight mechanism to ensure transparency discipline while keeping bureaucracy and transactional cost to a minimum. Thank you, Simon, and best of luck for the presidency.”
  Financial regulation
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you. It is, I guess, no secret that Denmark is skeptical towards the current revision of regulation 83. That said, we hope that some of our concerns regarding the current revision can be mitigated with the next revision of the regulation already before the current revision of regulation 83 has been formally concluded. We agree that we need to improve and digitalize the coordination of Social Security rules. Moreover, the rules need to be aligned with the present labour market. So let me highlight three main aspects that need to be part of any future regulation. Firstly, control and activation. We are pleased that the Commission has stated clearly that focus will now be on stronger control. We must improve administrative cooperation and strengthen control and activation and activation to facilitate rapid reintegration to work, Especially in the unemployment benefits chapter. Denmark finds that the right balance has still not been found. The incentives for the receiving member states are not in place. Rights and obligations needs to go hand in hand in order to safeguard public support for our systems. Moreover, we agreed that Ila should be strengthened to better support coordination of Social Security rules in the future. Secondly, digitalisation digital tools are imperative to promote free and fair mobility. We find that ISPs could deliver this. Esps could help promote fair competition, prevent downward pressure on working conditions and workers rights, and it could provide real added value to social security institutions. Labour inspectorate and health care providers if we decide to aim for the most ambitious model, and we should be ambitious here. And lastly, the revision of the regulation must be built on the principles of better regulation, simplification and support of the competitiveness of the EU. Thank you.”
  EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you very much, chair, and thank you to the presidency for maintaining this important topic on our common agenda. The substantial work that has been carried out in the course of the last two years has clearly shown that we have a lot to gain in cooperating. Part of this is about exchanging best practice, but it is also about acknowledging and addressing at the European level the implications of these challenges, including the fact that high housing costs also affect mobility and social cohesion. It's a fundamental value that different socio economic groups can live side by side, and it is vital that young people have a real possibility of finding their own place to live. For all of these reasons, we need to ensure a sufficient housing supply, especially in our larger cities, and we need to ensure a mix of different tenure forms. Non-profit social housing plays an important role in ensuring affordable housing in Denmark, and several initiatives, including inclusionary zoning and loans to cover high land costs, have been tailored to ensure that it remains possible to build new social social housing in the most expensive urban areas in Denmark. The new government is also committed to ensuring a larger supply of owner occupied housing, which is in high demand, and we need further action at the European level to. And in this context, the forthcoming Affordable Housing Act will be an important step and we look forward to discussing it. So with us again, thank you to the presidency for keeping this issue high on our agenda. Thank you.”
  EU housing policy
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you. Chair. Poverty and social exclusion remain major challenges across Europe. As the vice president said, 1 in 5 Europeans is at risk of poverty or social exclusion. This shows the importance of continued efforts to promote social inclusion and equal opportunities, not least in the labour market. However, to address poverty effectively, we need to recognise how complex a challenge this is. The causes differ across member states. So do welfare systems, labour markets and social policies. One example is active labor market policies. As in any other country, the active labor market policies in Denmark constitute a broad set of measures specifically adopted to our national context. We are currently implementing a major reform to reduce burdens and to give back autonomy to frontline workers. We have also strengthened our efforts to help young people, neither in education nor employment. People with disabilities and seniors to access the labour market. Also, a lot of efforts have been made at European level. Some of these we just touched upon when discussing the European Semester. So to be very clear, we fully recognise the importance to activate all groups and to do our very best to give everyone a chance to be part of the labor market. This is key to fighting poverty and exclusion. We also believe that we should learn from each other, but that does not mean that we need new binding EU legislation. Even if the intentions are good, there is a big risk that this leads to unnecessary burdens for both businesses and public authorities without producing the results that we are aiming for. In addition, we are concerned that going down this route would, from our perspective, neither be in line with proportionality nor subsidiarity. Rather, we should continue our constructive work, including here in Ebsco, to identify common challenges and solutions. As regards activation of all groups of our society, but not in the form of more binding legislation. Thank you.”
  EU competences on social policies
• 2026-06-26 “16:50 - 11:19:30): Thank you. This is a very important proposal. Grids are the backbone of, energy transition, and we need to ensure that we can build them out at a greater speed. If we don't, we will be reliant on imported fossil fuels for a longer time, and we need a more European approach so we together can drive down energy prices and increase security, of supply. I would like to thank you for the efforts to find a balanced compromise, but let me also, highlight 2 remaining issues. 1st, the proposal to earmark parts of the congestion revenues for cross border projects. We understand the aim of this article, and we do agree with the the need to ensure sufficient financing to address critical cross border bottlenecks and build out, build, our interconnectors. We've had a number of concerns about this article. For us, it's important that TSOs can continue to prioritize to use congestion revenues to invest in the internal grids. It is not a choice between doing 1 or the other. We really need to prioritize both. And since it varies significantly how well interconnected member states are already are, it is important to provide enough flexibility. We're generally pleased with the changes that have been introduced that go a long way in addressing our concerns. And, secondly, we're also, very pleased that you taken on, board our suggestion to give hydrogen infrastructure projects prioritized status, on equal terms with electricity in order to accelerate their permitting procedures. Electricity is important, but hydrogen and c o 2 infrastructure will also play important roles in the future. This is why we would, have been very keen to also include c o 2 infrastructure projects. This will be key for the development of CCS in the EU. Not including c o 2 infrastructure is, in our view, a real missed opportunity, and this will be important to tackle in the upcoming legislative proposal on development of the c o 2 transportation infrastructure end markets. But, to conclude, altogether, the proposal has been significantly improved, and we thank you for the recent changes. Thank you very much. Thank you. So moving to Romania, Slovakia, Portugal.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• 2026-06-26 “04:29 - 10:06:44): Thank thank you, Christian. So, Denmark followed by Poland followed by Germany. Thank you very much. Dear presidency, dear colleagues, 1st of all, I would like to thank the commission for the proposal to accelerate, permitting procedures. This is a precondition to deliver unnecessary build out of renewable energy and energy infrastructure. I would also like to thank the presidency for your hard work and effort to find a balanced compromise. Many good improvement have been made. Nonetheless, allow me to take, make a few comments on the substance. 1st, we recognize the procedural requirements like, contact points and deadlines can be part of the solution. Nevertheless, in our view, it's not what really makes the difference. What does makes a difference is substantial simplifications of requirement and assessments that projects developers need to follow and recognizing the strategic importance of renewable energy and the related energy infrastructure by considering them to have overriding public interest. That is why we are also very pleased with the specifications on possibilities to use derogations and to use exemptions in certain cases. This could significantly help to simplify the process. 2nd, I want to highlight concerns on grid connections. In Denmark, we are currently facing severe constraints on the grid capacity. In a sense, we are victim of our own success in driving electrification. I believe the same is the case in other member states. We will do everything we can to increase the speed of the build out of the grid. But in the meantime, it is decisive decisive that we have an intelligent framework in place. This cannot be a simple 1st come, 1st serve approach. We will need to prioritize grid friendly projects and projects where the grid has the capacity to tackle the input. As the director regulates, deadline for grids connections, we are very pleased that, this issue is now recognized. In conclusion, and because of the importance of this agenda, we can support the general approach. Thank you.”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• 2026-06-26 “23:31 - 12:24:32): Thank you, Mott. So, Denmark, The Netherlands, and then Sweden. Thank you. I would like to, thank France, for taking the initiative. As previous discussions today have underlined, we cannot afford to stay dependent on imported fossil fuels. Electrification can play a central role in reducing that dependence across sectors and is essential to address and have focus on when we move forward with the energy transition in Europe. We therefore look very forward to the upcoming electrification action plan. We also need to ensure consistent signals for accelerating the deployment of electric vehicles and maintain pricing signals from the ETS. And we need to ensure that electrification contributes to strengthening European industry and that new technologies are developed in Europe. Thank you. Thank you. The Netherlands, Sweden, Spain.”
  Energy (green transition)
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, chair, and thank you to the Czech Republic and others for bringing up the many challenges in implementing the packaging and packaging waste regulation. Denmark understands and shares the concerns raised by our colleagues. Getting the implementation of this regulation right is important both to make life easier for companies operating across Europe, but of course also to deliver the environmental and climate benefits for which the regulation was designed in the first place. Thank you very much.”
  Sustainable packaging
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, chair. I can be brief. I would like to thank the Netherlands, France and Germany for this initiative. Denmark supports the Non-paper and agrees that it is important to have a harmonised EU approach to ultra fast fashion. We look forward to working with our colleagues to address the challenges posed by ultra fast fashion, including through ecodesign requirements, EPR for textiles and regulating the marketing practices that drive overconsumption. Thank you very much.”
  Sustainable fashion
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, chair. Water quality and water quantity are key priorities for the new Danish government. In this context, Denmark continues to fully support the objectives of the Water Resilience Strategy. We need to maintain our ambition in this area, and we very much welcome the important initiatives that have already been undertaken by the Commission to support the implementation of the strategy to protect water quality in Denmark. The government is currently preparing a national ban on the use of pesticides in vulnerable groundwater recharge areas and more broadly, preventing pollution at source remains a clear political priority, as also highlighted in the council conclusions of last year. Action at EU level is essential to protect our groundwater, drinking water and aquatic environments, and in this context, we also continue to await the outcome of the proposed restrictions on PFAs. And by the way, let me also thank France for its non-paper on the Water Framework Directive, which Denmark supports. Now, turning from quality to quantity, improving water efficiency has long been a Danish priority. In Denmark, water services are fully financed through user tariffs. It has been our experience that pricing water appropriately is one of the most effective ways of encouraging efficient water use and when combined with taxes on water losses and the widespread use of smart water meters, this approach has enabled us to significantly reduce leakage from our distribution networks. Today, water losses in Denmark's distribution system are limited to around 8%, and that should be compared to a European average of around 25%. So in conclusion, we need to do much more to strengthen water resilience in Europe. We are facing a big common challenge which will affect all of us. And we have to systematically learn from best practices and proven solutions in all member states. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on water management
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you, Madam Minister. Firstly, this is indeed a timely and important discussion, and we thank the presidency for bringing it to the Council's attention. All businesses, regardless of size, sector or location, rely on biodiversity one way or another and biodiversity loss poses a systemic risk to the global economy, economy, financial stability, and human well-being. The economic value of biodiversity is a key priority of the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, on which we must take stock this autumn at Cop17. Secondly, I would like to underline that Denmark strongly supports effective protection of nature. We believe that the EU should lead the way globally through ambitious environmental policies. If we want to ensure sustainable and competitive European economies, and if we want to ensure strategic autonomy and protect food security, we need healthy ecosystems with healthy soils and clean water. Thirdly, financial implications will be important to consider. Implementation of measures to protect and restore nature are often costly. However, benefits by far outweigh the costs in. In the longer term, when the Commission proposes a proposed the Nature Restoration Regulation back in 2022. It was accompanied by an impact assessment, which suggested that investment in nature positive measures would merit a ten fold benefit over time in economic terms. More and stronger impact assessments, as detailed as possible, sector by sector, region by region will be important to build the case for investments and transition. Finally, we need to work with businesses, making it easier for them to understand their impacts and dependencies on biodiversity. The Confederation of Danish Industry recently launched a guide to their members. The guide is designed for manufacturing companies, outlining a stepwise process to help companies assess their footprint on nature, identify priorities, set targets and take meaningful action. This is just a small example, but one that could no doubt be scaled up and made more specific to sectors and supply chains. Thank you very much.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much. Chair. Denmark fully understands the challenges currently facing the European automotive industry. But weakening climate regulation is not the right response. Europe has a profound strategic interest in reducing our dependence on imported fossil fuels in all parts of our economy, including transport. Producing the cars of the future is vital if we want a European car industry to have a future. But to do so, we have to move away from the technologies of the past. And this has to be reflected in the regulation that we are discussing here today. Electrification is the future of road transport. It is not only necessary to achieve our climate objectives, it is also essential for strengthening our energy security and for reducing our vulnerability to future crises and fossil fuel price shocks. As already mentioned by the commissioner and many previous speakers, market development showed that consumers are increasingly embracing electric mobility. In 2025, the sales of BEVs increased by almost 30% compared to the previous year. In the first quarter of this year, this trend has continued so that battery electric vehicles have now reached almost one fifth of all new registrations, and the IEA has highlighted Europe as one of the fastest growing markets in the world for electric vehicles. I listened carefully, carefully to the intervention by the Czech minister, and I can't help but noticing that in my country, 75% of all new cars are EVs, and two of the three most sold cars in Denmark are actually produced by Skoda.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “So, dear Minister, you are in fact winning this race. So dear colleagues, um, if we want a European automotive industry to remain competitive both in Europe and in the world, we need to stay the course. And we need to avoid creating regulatory uncertainty about the direction of travel. Otherwise we won't get the investments and we won't be able to compete. Let me add to this that we don't see a role for low and zero emission fuels in road transport. Electrification is by far the most efficient, the cleanest and the most affordable solution. And we should not fall into the trap of invoking technology neutrality in such a way as to ignore the facts. Low and zero emission fuels should be kept for sectors such as aviation and maritime that are difficult to electrify, but not for road transport, where far better alternatives are available. We also need to maintain a data driven approach to regulation. Different vehicle technologies should be regulated according to the actual emissions, not numbers that are created at a desk. And we need to continue updating the utility factor to make sure that it really reflects the real world use of plug in hybrid vehicles and the emissions that they produce. So in conclusion, we need to be very careful to stay the course and not to create confusion on the direction of travel. Thank you very much.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, chair. And thank you to Spain for raising this important issue. Achieving our environmental and biodiversity objectives will require substantial investment. In this context, Denmark very much welcomes the progress made during the Cyprus presidency, which has helped to secure a stronger place for climate and environmental priorities in the future MFF. The Life programme has been and continues to be an effective instrument for delivering tangible results on the ground, and regardless of the final future financial framework, we must ensure that EU funding delivers the greatest possible environmental impact. The need for this has never been greater. Both the Commission and Member States have an important responsibility to ensure that adequate funding for climate and environmental objectives are reflected in the implementation of the future MFF. And of course, while EU funding is essential, it cannot do the job alone. National investments will remain crucial and we must do more to mobilise private capital. Thank you very much.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you, chair, and thank you for this timely discussion on the future of reach. And also thank you to France for its non-paper. Denmark fully supports the call for action and the focus on delivering practical solutions. Now, while we take note that the timing is currently not right for a broader revision of reach, the challenges identified in the chemical strategy remain, and we need to continue to address them. When circumstances allow. A reach revision will still be needed to deliver the modernisation and simplification that cannot be achieved otherwise. In the meantime, the Commission should make full use of the tools available, including through Comitology. Stronger enforcement and reduced imports of products containing problematic chemicals. And all of this, of course, while maintaining a high level of protection for human health and the environment. Now, let me briefly highlight three priorities. First, we should make greater use of group restrictions to phase out problematic chemicals in consumer products more efficiently. Second, information requirements for producers and importers should be strengthened, especially for endocrine disruptors and other substances of concern. And as part of this, we need sufficient data. Robust decisions require robust evidence. Thirdly, the Commission should introduce a mixture assessment factor to better reflect risks arising from combined chemicals, chemical exposures. And all of this, of course, must go hand in hand with strengthening Europe's competitiveness. So any future adjustments to reach should be as simple and as efficient as possible, including through digitalisation and more streamlined communication across supply chains. We also need to strengthen enforcement, and we need to ensure that we stop illegal products entering the EU through online platforms. Thank you very much.”
  Chemicals regulation
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you Maria. First, it is positive to see the number of stocks fished at the maximum sustainable yield level has increased. However, it is also of concern that most of the stocks in terms of biomass have not improved as expected. This is a fact not to be ignored. Setting the quotas for 2027, in line with scientific advice and a multiannual plans, is a necessary first step to improve the situation. Remedial measures to support stocks not recovering may also be required. It is very disturbing to read that and I quote to date, discarding within EU fisheries has not been reduced and continues to be a common practice across all sea basins. Discarding is an unnecessary waste of resources and jeopardizes the stocks as well as the economic sustainability of the fishers. The landing obligation is a key element of the Common fisheries Policy that I fully support, and we need it to work. Therefore, reducing discard in European fisheries must be a priority now and in the years to come. The strategy is twofold. We must apply the control tools that we know work remote electronic monitoring, including cameras. But more incentives for fishers to comply with the landing obligation are also needed. I am open to discussing both options. It is also of major concern that the coastal states in the North Atlantic have not yet succeeded in agreeing on allocation keys for the pelagic stocks. It greatly undermines the sustainability of the stocks, and I strongly support the efforts to find balanced and sustainable sharing agreements as soon as possible. In this context, I also want to stress the need for strengthening the relationship with the UK and Norway. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much, chair. First, let me begin by congratulating the presidency on reaching a compromise on the PRM proposal. And secondly, let me let me also commend the presidency for the big effort to ensure progress in the negotiations on the proposal on transport of animals. Denmark continues to find it crucial to use this opportunity to ensure better welfare for animals during transport. This should be achieved by reducing maximum journey time, increasing space allowances and improving temperature requirements. We really need to ensure an ambitious compromise on this file, and therefore, Denmark welcomes the Irish presidency's ambition to reach a general approach on this important file, and we look very much forward to continuing cooperation on this matter. Thank you very much.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you, chair, and thank you to Germany for raising this issue. It's important that the control system contributes to developing fisheries towards a green transition with greater consideration for nature, while cooperation and partnerships with fisheries are indispensable. Control and effective enforcement remain vital. Otherwise, we will lose the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and law abiding fishers, and our biodiversity will suffer as a consequence. That being said, it is of course also important to focus on easing unnecessary burdens and barriers. Simplification must take into account, among other things, fundamental employee rights, consumer protection and environment and climate. Denmark looks forward to continue cooperation on the shared goal of simplification, while ensuring that the framework is usable in practical enforcement. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you Maria, and thank you to the Commissioner for updating us on the evaluation. Denmark supports the overall objectives of the Common Fisheries policy of ensuring sustainable management of fisheries and marine resources. The CFP must develop fisheries and aquaculture towards towards a greener transition with greater consideration for nature. I would like to underline the importance of maintaining the framework of the CFP. This framework contributes to ensuring the protection of fish stocks. We must maintain focus on implementing the objective of maximum sustainable yield and ensure green transition and a level playing field. Furthermore, the CFP should be seen in a broader policy context and be based on an ecosystem approach to management. On the issues highlighted as regards the landing obligation, I would like to stress that Denmark strongly supports the landing obligation. It is, however, evident that the landing obligation still has not reached its full potential. It is a common responsibility of the Commission and Member States to ensure the functioning of the landing obligation throughout EU waters. Towards this goal, we should facilitate improving selectivity to fish smarter and avoid unwanted bycatches. I am also a strong supporter of utilising remote electronic monitoring, including cameras, as an effective tool for enforcing the landing obligation. Let us work with fishers and scientists to develop better solutions on fishing gears, fishing patterns and make use of effective available control tools. Finally, I want to stress the need for a strong cooperation between the EU and our neighbouring countries only in close cooperation with them. We succeed, All with the aim of transitioning into a greener fisheries management, having greater consideration for nature and our common fishery resources. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you Maria. First of all, I would like to thank the presidency and the Commission for all the work. I will highlight a few issues of importance for Denmark. Denmark welcomes that the conditions for EU support can continue to underpin the Common Fisheries policy, including fisheries control, data collection and also nature restoration. It is of utmost importance that the future EU funding contribute to a green transition of the fisheries sector, with greater consideration for nature and the development of coastal fisheries. The possible EU support for new vessels is a new element in the discussions. We must be very careful regarding increasing the fishing fleet. It could lead to the risk of overcapacity, especially where stocks or ecosystems are under pressure. It could give adverse incentives if we were to support constructions of new vessels. Furthermore, we must respect the rules on fisheries subsidies and sustainability in the World Trade Organisation. From my point of view, this is fundamentally the wrong way to go. We would have preferred the conditions in this proposal to be much clearer regarding what can and cannot be supported. This would ensure a more level playing field. We take note of the efforts made in this respect, but we ought to have a clear legal text, and we hope that this will be reflected in the final compromise. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-16 “The second main problem is in the revised NATO box is the. The fact that it reduces the attempt of the commission to modernize the budget. We see larger reductions in funds set aside for modern policies and smaller reductions, very small reductions for traditional policies. We believe that we need a budget which prioritizes the challenges of today and tomorrow, the challenges and objectives that our leaders discuss at every European Council. To strengthen European competitiveness, to pursue an energy transition. Strategic autonomy, European security and defence support for Ukraine. Measures to address irregular migration. These are the the objectives we set out to achieve, and it will require a lot of top tough prioritisation in favor of these new challenges and modern policies at the expense of traditional priority areas. If we're going to land an agreement. So thanks again for your tireless work. Uh, we're not there yet. We are ready to work for an agreement by the end of the year. Uh, and, uh, and and ready to put a lot of work into that. Thank you very much.”
  Size of EU budget
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you very much, chair, and thank you for all the work that the Cypriot presidency has done to to advance negotiations on the on the MFF. Um, it's, it's a, it's a very difficult task to balance all the different points of view, uh, with the revised negotiation box and the agreement on the three partial general agreement agreements. Uh, we are now entering a new phase. Uh, We've got the architecture in place and we can focus on the numbers. That said, there's still a long way to go and we haven't found the landing zone yet. In our view, there are two main problems with the revised negotiation box. Firstly, the level of the overall budget. Denmark is ready to accept a larger budget given the challenges that Europe is facing, but the level proposed is still much too high for us, and our willingness to accept the larger budget will depend on the degree of modernisation. The reality is that member states cannot afford substantial increases in their contributions to the budget. In the case of Denmark, we are delivering on our commitment to increase our defence spending to 5% and we are, like Sweden, among the top contributors to Ukraine in nominal terms.”
  Size of EU budget
• “And now let's continue with the last item of today's agenda so far. We are now having a session with and any other business item, and the item will has been requested, as we discussed this morning by Germany. And it concerns highly pathogenic avian influenza. And without further ado, I will give the floor to the German colleague. Alois, you have the floor and please pay attention. I know it's late, but anyhow. Alois, you have the floor.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you very much, chair. And as you just said, I am presenting this paper on behalf of the Dutch, Finnish, Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian and Portuguese delegations. And I would like to say a special thanks to our Dutch colleagues for leading the work. The main message of this paper is clear the EU needs to speed up in the global tech race to secure control of our own future, and in this context, biotech offers hope for Europe because here we have world class researchers, leading companies and innovative startups. But too many companies leave Europe to grow and to bring it into this, they need clear and simple rules, fast approval procedures, and better access to scale up facilities as well as risk and venture capital. We have a unique chance to lead in biotech if we act now. The first biotech act is a good step, and the second Biotech Act will be crucial. But we need to do things right. It needs to be a broad act to unleash the innovative potential across sectors agri food, energy, health, industry and raw materials. And of course, it needs to be aligned with the bioeconomy strategy. New rules have to make life easier for companies, not add more complexity and burdens. And finally, it goes without saying that we can and indeed must do all of this while maintaining high safety and public trust. Really, it is not an either or choice. So once again, many thanks to our Dutch colleagues for leading the work on this paper. We very much hope that it will inspire the important work on the Second Biotech Act. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on ethical standards in biotechnology applications
• “Thank you. Cheslav. And also from me. All the best. To the people of Estonia with your Independence Day. And thank you, Christophe, for the presentation. And the vision clearly recognizes the importance of shaping and attractive, innovative, sustainable and competitive agricultural sector here in Europe. To reach this, we need an agriculture sector deeply integrated into the market and that can attract the young generation as well. And therefore, we also need to focus on simplification of the rules and to lower the administrative burdens for the farmers significantly. We need to target direct payments towards delivering public goods, especially in relation to climate and environment, where we need to move forward and ensure better and simpler policy instruments. All farmers needs to deliver on the green transition as well as all member states as well. International trade is vital for the income of European farmers and therefore we must avoid setting up barriers for trades. I look forward to a more in-depth discussion at the council meeting in March. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you. Jacek and I would like to express my sympathy with Hungary and Slovakia in this difficult situation. It is important to work on avoiding the spread within the EU. Comprehensive and detailed information from the affected Member States allows us all to understand the situation and take precautionary measures accordingly. Due to the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in January this year in Germany, Denmark has already strengthened the preventive measures. This is primarily aimed at increased information and awareness, and Denmark intends to maintain a high level of attention. As mentioned before, this situation clearly underlines the need to look into the financing of veterinary measures and from our point of view, it should be linked to the agricultural budget. Thank you.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you very much, chair. And as you just said, I am presenting this paper on behalf of the Dutch, Finnish, Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian and Portuguese delegations. And I would like to say a special thanks to our Dutch colleagues for leading the work. The main message of this paper is clear the EU needs to speed up in the global tech race to secure control of our own future, and in this context, biotech offers hope for Europe because here we have world class researchers, leading companies and innovative startups. But too many companies leave Europe to grow and to bring it into this, they need clear and simple rules, fast approval procedures, and better access to scale up facilities as well as risk and venture capital. We have a unique chance to lead in biotech if we act now. The first biotech act is a good step, and the second Biotech Act will be crucial. But we need to do things right. It needs to be a broad act to unleash the innovative potential across sectors agri food, energy, health, industry and raw materials. And of course, it needs to be aligned with the bioeconomy strategy. New rules have to make life easier for companies, not add more complexity and burdens. And finally, it goes without saying that we can and indeed must do all of this while maintaining high safety and public trust. Really, it is not an either or choice. So once again, many thanks to our Dutch colleagues for leading the work on this paper. We very much hope that it will inspire the important work on the Second Biotech Act. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on ethical standards in biotechnology applications
• “In total, we plan to take out 15% of the agricultural land out of production. This will. In the other hand, give better room for the production on the remaining and more resilient agricultural area to supplement the Green Area Fund and manage nitrogen reductions and new emissions based land regulation will be introduced in 2027 based on the latest knowledge about soil retention. Additionally, a subsidy scheme of close to €1.3 billion will be introduced to support the production of biochar through pyrolysis. The agreement will also enable a strong and competitive agrifood sector that produces high quality and healthy food. The agreement will allow for development and implementation of new technologies, and it will ensure attractive jobs and support business opportunities in the sector for the years to come. Funding from the Common Agricultural Policy is expected to play a pivotal role under the agreement, specifically in financing more sustainable agricultural practices and the uptake of new technology that decreases the greenhouse gas emissions from the sector. Thus, a high level of coherence between the Common Agricultural Policy and future national and EU climate regulation is important, and this is key to facilitate the green transition and bring the agricultural sector in line with EU sustainability objectives. It is not going to be easy and we know that when it comes to agriculture, there is no one size fits all, but we hope to give inspiration for other countries as well. Thank you very much.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you David. Denmark welcomes the council conclusions, including the focus on the potential for growth and development in green transition. Eu actions and measures should aim for a positive development in both rural and coastal areas. An EU and national measures should be coherent. It is important [00:43:30] that the Common Agricultural Policy can support rural areas by stimulating growth and jobs, including green jobs. It is also important to ensure generational renewal in agriculture. Of course, other EU funds can also be important in this context. For example, the Cohesion Policy and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Finally, it is important that we work on simplification and better regulation to [00:44:00] avoid increasing administrative costs or burdens. On this basis, we can support the Council conclusions. Thank you. **Spain @Chair [00:44:11] Thank you. Jakub Marek, Czech Republic.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, Peter. I agree with my Greek colleague that the agricultural sector faces challenges in the present situation. However, we do not see a current need to introduce additional support measures or other measures that have a protectionist character. This will not strengthen the competitiveness of European agriculture. On the contrary, it will have the opposite effect. Rather, it is vital to ensure open and well-functioning supply chains within the EU and around the world, and to focus on the sustainable green transition of the agricultural sector. Thank you. Text. Mc Yakov.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Yes, I fully agree that we need to closely follow implementation of ETS for the maritime sector. It's very important for the sector and should lead to the necessary decarbonization for the shipping sector. So for that reason, we absolutely need to avoid [00:18:00] anything that can lead to carbon leaks. We need to have some time to see the effects of the revised ETS. We will adopt a new rules to enter into force next year, but we're also awaiting the Commission's report on implementation of ETS for the maritime sector so that we can see the different consequences, and we are certain that we will be able to resolve any problems [00:18:30] that may arise. Thank you. And.”
  Decarbonisation of maritime transport
• “Thank you very much, chair. I would like to begin by expressing our gratitude for the way in which our Swedish neighbours effectively have dealt with African swine fever. The Swedish authorities have already shared their experiences with African swine fever, and this has been of great value to the Danish authorities. Denmark has not yet had an outbreak of African swine fever, but we are prepared for that scenario. And of course the Swedish experience will further enhance our preparedness. I would also like to express our concern and understanding with the situation in Greece. And finally, I would like to emphasise that it really is important to ensure strong EU measures to handle the outbreak of animal and plant diseases. And that is why, in our opinion, the future financing of such measures should be linked directly to the Common Agricultural policy. Thank you very much.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you very much, Maria. And also thank you to Slovenia for raising this important issue. Animal welfare is a high priority for for Denmark. We share the view of Slovenia that the Commission should keep animal welfare as a visible and forward looking priority. I urge the Commission to present the much needed proposal on animal welfare regarding farm animals, killing of animals and animal welfare labelling. Additionally, we should aim to phase out the production of fast growing broilers in the EU and move towards slow growing breeds. Furthermore, I hope that we will continue to see good progress on the proposal on transport of animals this year. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “I will now turn to the four issues that the presidency is seeking political guidance on, on widening. Denmark supports the Commission's proposal to introduce both widening and transition countries. The proposed new model recognizes the positive developments we see at national level in some countries, like in Estonia, and this we want to acknowledge and support by looking forward and develop the most effective measures to be accompanied by national efforts, Denmark is not in a position to support widening as a horizontal principle. Widening was not meant to be a permanent instrument, but as a temporary supportive structure in addition to national efforts. Of course, we find it important with more collaboration across Europe. This is called for if we are able to build the scale and critical mass needed to compete globally. This is one of the main purposes behind the framework programme. On the close link with the ECF, horizon, Europe and the ECF are to jointly establish a smooth investment journey for researchers and innovators, covering the full innovation cycle, from fundamental research to upscaling to close the gaps that we have today. It is crucial that we have a joint governance model across both regulations to ensure a holistic approach. We need to be done with the silos at the moment. However, at the moment, however, we are still discussing the issue. This issue too much in parallel instead of jointly. We need a clearly defined. While a lean and effective priority setting process to ensure the early involvement of Member States. I believe that we Member States know what needs to be done, and Europe needs to scale up quickly to keep track with global competitors.”
  EU-level coordination of research agendas
• “Regarding the proposal amending the Common Market Organisation, I would like to share our initial Shows reflections. We welcome the intention behind the proposal. But and there is a but we find that the current rules regarding the use of contracts are already adequate. We do not need new burdensome regulations in this respect. On the contrary, we need to ease the burdens for our farmers. In our view, the new requirements for mandatory contracts and for their contents have the potential to be highly burdensome. It is essential for Denmark that the farmers sell to their own cooperative continues to be exempted from the requirements of mandatory contracts. We need to have legal clarity on this point in the technical discussions, and we do not find that the drafted text is sufficient. The proposal also introduces optional terms for commercial modalities. And here we find that the existing regulations on voluntary food information are adequate. The scope of the agricultural reserve has been discussed several times. We are not in favor of increasing the areas that may be financed within the reserve. It is positive that the proposal includes a strengthened focus on the improving investments by young farmers. Generational renewal is very important. Turning to the proposal on cross-border enforcement on unfair trading practices, it is important that the scope of the proposal does not go further than the EU minimum prohibitions. Finally, a general remark on the two proposals. We find that the lack of impact assessments on both proposals makes it difficult to estimate possible costs and burdens. Further, we must ensure a more competitive agri food sector in Europe in line with the Draghi report. One important instrument to achieve this is to have proper impact assessment of new proposals. Thank you.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you very much, chair. Denmark welcomes the proposal on certification of carbon farming. The framework has to be credible and has to provide credible standards. But at the same time, it must not become too complicated for farmers to participate. Carbon farming. Farming is a particular challenge since the effect is difficult to quantify and to monitor. Many carbon farming activities are already supported [00:28:00] through the Common Agricultural Policy, and in this context it is very important to clearly define criteria for additional for additionality. It should be clear whether activities supported through the Cap can also be certified, and moreover, we should fast track development of methodologies for permanent removals. This is essential to use the full potential and to integrate permanent removals in the EU emissions trading system. Thank you very much.”
  Climate efforts
• “Thank you very much, Chair. First, I would like to warmly thank the Commission for presenting this important proposal. As the detailed impact assessment clearly demonstrates, we need new legislation to account for the developments in new breeding techniques. [00:12:00] The difficult weather conditions also this summer show that we need new crops that are more resilient to climate change. New breeding techniques have the potential to develop plans that can contribute to a more sustainable agrifood system, including by reducing the need for pesticides, as already mentioned, by Luxembourg. That is why it is crucial that we do not put unnecessary regulatory obstacles in the way of the use of such plants. As already mentioned by previous speakers, the new legislation should contribute [00:12:30] to the objectives of the EU Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy. And at the same time we must of course maintain the high level of safety for humans, animals and the environment. As also mentioned by the Commissioner in her introduction, I would like to recall that the European Food Safety Authority has concluded that the plants obtained through new genomic techniques do not pose greater risks than plants developed through conventional breeding. Therefore, we think that the proposal is well balanced regarding these aspects [00:13:00] and we agree that these plants and their products should not be treated as GMOs. If the same products could have occurred naturally or if they could have been developed with traditional traditional breeding methods, this approach will allow the entire agrifood chain to benefit from these new techniques without danger to consumers or the environment. For all of these reasons, I would like to thank the Spanish Presidency for giving the proposal high priority. It is crucial that we advance the negotiations [00:13:30] as much as we can this year. Otherwise, we will not be able to deliver on the green transition of the agricultural sector in Europe on time. So in conclusion, you can count on our support in taking forward discussions constructively and without delay on this very important proposal. Thank you very much.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you. Istvan. The bioeconomy can play an important role in accelerating a green and sustainable transition of the agricultural sector, while increasing the competitiveness of European farmers and developing rural areas. Technological opportunities within the bioeconomy can create new jobs, opportunities, not least in the rural areas and at the same time support a more green and sustainable agricultural sector. The future Common Agricultural Policy should promote investments in such technologies. Turning to the challenges ahead. Bio resources are already limited and biomass availability gap is expecting demand for bio resources increases, so does the competitive for competition for land. We must therefore carefully consider how to prioritize our land and use it in order to produce the right bio resources by resources while protecting the environment, climate and nature. We need to incentivize incentivize the use of crops from agricultural practices that combine high yields with low environmental impacts. The potential of bioeconomy can be enhanced through cascading use of bio resources. For example, green bio refineries for the development of grass protein to enhance the competitiveness of the EU. It is important that that a number of regulatory barriers limiting the marketing of new bio based solutions are reduced and simplified. Of course, without compromising food safety standards or environmental goals, Denmark looks forward to the Commission study on how relevant EU legislation can be further streamlined as part of the new European Act. This should include the agrifood sector turning to biogas. We believe that biogas plays an important part in the green transition, as it can be used to replace and phase out fossil natural gas. In Denmark, manure and other waste from farms are transported to centralised biogas plants, which operate on a large scale. This has allowed us to increase biogas production substantially, together with increasing investments in large biomethane plants. We expect the Danish gas consumption to be 100% green in the year 2030. Only a few years from now, while the focus is different in Denmark from Finland, we strongly support the idea on reducing administrative burdens and boosting incentives for the biogas production in the EU.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “The Commission should explore the feasibility of incorporating information on mobile workers labour situation. A possible wallet based pan-European labour card containing information that can be verified. This could, for example, be information on the employer, workplace, working period and contractual relationships. In this regard, Commission could take account of the findings of the pilot project on social identity cards in construction, the so-called sidekick carried out by the European social partners. In my view, this could help ensure decent wages and working conditions, as well as strengthen our fight against social dumping. And, um, I hope you can support this initiative. Thank you. All ready to Belgium, Croatia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Slovenia and the Netherlands. I firmly believe that a stronger focus on digitalization and social security coordination will contribute to promoting free and fair mobility and fair competitive competition, preventing downwards pressure on working conditions and workers rights, as well as reducing burdens. Thank you. Chair.”
  EU competences on social policies · EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers
• “Thank you so much, chair. Thank you very much for the floor. The ETS is key to reducing fossil fuel dependency, accelerating. Also investments in clean European made energy and infrastructure. It has shown to deliver mitigation, green growth and European resilience. Uh, no doubt this contributes to structural lower energy prices. The market has been stable and ensures predictability for the for the industry. We acknowledge that some are pressured during this transition, and it is important to ensure a system that is well functioning, of course, but it is also important not to punish the industry. That has gone a long way in this transition already. By changing the system fundamentally and creating an uncertainty around potential very large investment decisions. So thank you very much, sir.”
  Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
• “Uh, and we will end our fisheries agenda with two any other business points which will be taken in one round table. Slovakia has shared a note on behalf of Croatia, I guess also on behalf of Slovakia, but also on behalf of Croatia, Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia on the need to ensure adequate support for the agricultural sector. And France has also circulated a note on the fisheries dimension in the next Multiannual Financial framework. So first I would like to invite Slovakia briefly to present their note. Vladimir, you have the floor.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Thank you. Marilena. A modernized budget must be matched by a modernized government governance framework. We need a governance structure that delivers the flexibility we need. Increased flexibility is key to addressing common challenges challenges in an ever changing world. At the same time, the next budget should also ensure accountability, predictability, transparency and results based management. Therefore, the flexibility in the budget should allow us sufficient room to deploy and redeploy resources within the agreed ceilings over the duration of the MFF. This means we must maintain sufficient unallocated buffers and flexibility amounts so we can respond to changing conditions and priorities. Furthermore, increased flexibility also requires a strong role for the Council. We must ensure that the funds are disbursed with the view to maximize added value and to deliver on Europe's needs. Security, defense, competitiveness, to name a few. We are therefore in agreement with those who say that we need close and early involvement of the Council in the governance of EU programmes, for example, in determining the strategic and political direction of external action. It should also be ensured that Member States have reasonable influence on the management of unallocated funds, including the allocation of budget cushions cushions. National plans should be approved by the council like the recovery and resilience plans are today. At the same time, each member state must be allowed to draw up their national plan with sufficient flexibility to adapt European strategic priorities into national and regional needs. In addition, to ensure a high degree of national ownership, National co-financing is key. It will contribute to ensuring sound financial management and delivering high value projects. Thank you.”
  Conditions to access EU budget
• “Thank you chair. We are open to the Commission's proposals and fully share the objective of more integrated and efficient EU capital markets, and we believe that now is the time to translate the ambitions and the conclusions of the European Council on this into real progress at expert level. And we support your your work plan in that regard. Um, stronger and more consistent supervision is an important part of the discussion, but it will not on its own deliver the Siu we need. Progress depends on practical measures that can more effectively mobilise private capital and simplify cross-border investments. This will channel European savings into productive investments that drive growth and innovation. That being said, we're open to discuss changing how we supervise capital markets at EU level, including centralisation and an enhanced role for ESMA, where this adds value. This will ensure more consistent enforcement of the single rulebook across the single market and improve oversight of cross-border risks going forward. It's important that we obtain a clear division of responsibilities between asthma and the national competent authorities. We need a model that is efficient, avoids duplication and ensures accountability. We also find that the parts of the proposal that will better integrate the underlying infrastructure, like the CSP hubs and more. Open access is a solid foundation for enhancing cross-border trading possibilities and reduce market fragmentation. The further development of the DLT regime is an important step to support technological innovation in the capital markets, which will increase the efficiency and transparency.”
  Financial regulation
• “Thank you, Chair. First of all, I'd like to thank my Austrian, also German colleague, for bringing this important proposal up to the council [00:12:00] here. It is no doubt an essential discussion for Europe, but it is also a discussion that have implications, as already mentioned, for competitiveness. We see it as vital to maintain a strengthen and to strengthen the. The European Union's ability to support innovation and production of farm products, especially also in the light, as Sven also have already mentioned, [00:12:30] the global competition, but also geopolitical political challenges and the unstable supply of critical medicines that we are looking into. That's why we have serious concerns that the proposal will reduce the incentives to develop a market for new medicines in Europe. A reduction of the regulatory data protection period could have serious consequences [00:13:00] for the life science industry in Europe. It could hamper innovation and investment in Europe. And as we see it, not in the interest of patients who could lose access to new medicines. We propose an alternative solutions and alternative solutions. Sorry, equal access to medicine is a shared responsibility between industry, national authorities at and also, of course, at the European level. And I would just like to refer your [00:13:30] views and interest, hopefully to our non-paper that elaborates our position and our proposal for an alternative solution. Thank you very much.”
  Pharma IPRs
• “And thank you to Portugal for putting this on the agenda. And Denmark supports the request for the Commission to present a regulation on the use of drones for precision Application of pesticides. We believe that drones have the potential to reduce the use of pesticides and thereby lead to a more sustainable use of pesticides, and in general, we need to give farmers better access to new technologies in order to develop their production in a more sustainable way.”
  Digital and precision farming
• “Thank you Luis. And firstly, I want to thank the Commission for the proposal on animal welfare in the food group. Being Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Sweden and Denmark, we have proposed a maximum travel time for animals for slaughter of eight hours and [00:07:00] setting maximum travel times for all other animals. It is important that we reduce the maximum travel time and improve the conditions during transport for all animals. We also welcome the new proposals on cats and dogs, and at the same time, we urge the Commission to put forward a clear timeline for presenting the rest of the animal welfare package. We must be more ambitious. This includes the regulation on the keeping of farm animals, killing and slaughter, [00:07:30] and animal welfare labelling. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “I would like to express my deepest sympathy with Slovenia and with Greece. [00:32:00] These extreme weather events shows that climate change and food security are closely connected. The sustainability of the agriculture sector in the future is dependent on a green transition. When adapting to the changing conditions, we agree that the Commission should show flexibility within the legal framework of the Common Agriculture Policy, for example, in relation to proposed amendments to the strategic plans and using unspent funds in the Rural Development Programme. [00:32:30] Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Jacob Thank [00:37:00] you, Peter, and thank you to the Commission for presenting the fisheries package. Green transition is key if we want to ensure the future of our fish stock ecosystems and fishermen, and we support the Commission's overall objective and ambitions and welcome the outlining of possible ways forward. We share the Commission's overall approach for green energy transition of the EU fisheries sector [00:37:30] and hope that this approach can pave the way to a level playing field among EU players. Many factors, apart from fisheries, play a role for the conditions of our fish stocks and our marine ecosystems. This includes climate change, pollution, predators like seals and cormorants. Our marine waters are fertile and extremely productive. They [00:38:00] contribute to food production and food security in the EU. We must maintain this resources while ensuring a green transition of the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector. However, green transition cannot be a one size fits all solution. New measures must fit their purpose. This is the case with respect to the proposal for a new nature restoration [00:38:30] law, and it is the case in our protection of marine ecosystems. A total ban of bottom trawling in marine protected areas is not the way forward. And I therefore agree with my Spanish, French and Portuguese colleagues in this matter. We need a clear picture of the economic consequences for the fisheries sector. A well-functioning fisheries sector requires that the EU's fisheries legislation is simple, manageable, up to date and adapted to [00:39:00] the sector, society and technological developments.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “And also thank you to Finland for raising this very important issue. In Denmark, we are also facing challenges from wolves that have returned after a long absence and that are now increasing in numbers. And since we are a country with a relatively small area that gives us problems, we have before expressed the need for greater flexibility in the management of wolves, and we therefore look very much [00:18:30] forward to discuss the proposal by the Commission regarding the protection status of the Wolf. I would also like to raise the issue of seals and cormorants. We are experiencing a heavy predation from these species on fragile fish stocks such as eel and cut. It is possible to regulate seal and cormorants under certain under certain circumstances, but we need better regulatory tools to address this problem.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• “Thank you very much, chair. Denmark welcomes the discussion on how to encourage green energy transition in the EU, fisheries and agricultural sector, aquaculture sector and how to overcome the challenges. This is, of course, even more necessary in the current geopolitical situation with very high energy prices. The energy transition is an important part of ensuring sustainable fisheries, both with respect to environment and economy, and it is essential to keep a focus on long term solutions to ensure competitiveness and green transition. In this context, the involvement of stakeholders is key. The role of the Energy transition partnership for Fisheries and Agriculture is important. Its contributions, experiences and good examples must be brought forward. Moreover, regional cooperation for common solutions to common challenges within a sea basin could be facilitated further at EU level. For this effort to succeed, the legal framework of the Common Fisheries Policy must support the green transition, including energy transition and unnecessary obstacles in the path for the energy transition should be removed. Finally, in this context, simplification of the CFP remains important. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Three the main. The domain of employment and social affairs is particularly sensitive. All member states have their own tradition, which should be taken into account when drafting and adopting EU labour legislation, which we must all work together within the Council to ensure that these principles, for better and simpler regulations and better implementation and enforcement are properly applied. We should also learn from each other's experience from national level and my own country. Government always closely involves the social partners when implementing EU labour law. The social partners are part of the government's implementation committee, and that plays a key role in finding balanced and effective ways to implement EU directives that affect labour market. Your Member State is likely to have other good practices. I am looking very much forward to hearing about them for our exchange today, we have prepared three questions which you will find in the steering note. First, we invite you to share your ideas on measuring. The European Commission should take in order to reduce administrative burdens by 25% by 2030, while ensuring that the social equity remains relevant, proportionate and fit for purpose. Secondly, we would like to hear what we can do together in the configuration of the Council to ensure that EU regulation delivers where it matters most for citizens, while being appropriate and proportionate to their objectives. Thirdly, please give examples of measures and national union level for implementation in enforcing EU legislations which contribute to delivering on its objectives. With this introduction, I would like to invite you to open the debate.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “Thank you very much, Chair. Covid 19 Inflation and the green and digital transitions have all greatly affected our labor markets. The common denominator in these events is that they require of governments, employers and employees a readiness to adapt swiftly. In Denmark, we have for many years combined [00:39:30] a flexible labor market with security for workers and in close cooperation with the social partners. We have continuously adjusted our labor market policies to develop to developments in the economy during the pandemic. This approach helped the government conclude tripartite agreements with the social partners that helped keep unemployment at relatively low levels. Moreover, to aid the green and digital transitions the Danish government has given workers with an obsolete education the right to begin [00:40:00] a new education during which they can continue to receive their unemployment benefits even at a rate of 110% if the education promises. Great job opportunities. Allow me to also touch upon the use of technology within the field of Social Security coordination. Coming from 27 different, different social security systems with different ways of financing, we need good digital tools to properly support free and fair movement. We believe that further digitization [00:40:30] can contribute to better coordination of Social Security rights and at the same time help fight fraud and errors by ensuring updated documentation of Social Security entitlements. In that regard, the work of the Commission and several Member States on the European Social Security Pass, the so-called EZ Pass, could indeed be a useful first step. However, in our view, our ambition should go further than E-ZPass for all 27 member states. If we widen the scope and include other relevant [00:41:00] information besides social and security related documents, we could even more efficiently fight fraud and abuse, including social dumping. Simply put, we need to ensure that the free movement is also fair movement. Otherwise, we might end up losing public support for free movement altogether. Finally, like Ireland, I would like to stress that we also share many of the concerns expressed by the Netherlands on the Social Security coordination. Thank you very much.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “Without further ado let me kick off this session with the first substantive point on our agenda which is a progress report on the draft Erasmus Plus regulation. The progress report prepared by the presidency has been circulated under the reference fourteen thousand nine hundred forty fouronetwenty five rev1. Erasmus Plus represents one of the best known European brands. It's a very successful program which has so far changed the life of more than sixteen million people. It's given them the chance to study, to train and to volunteer abroad and to experience Europe firsthand. Since the Commission published the proposal on the new program on July sixteen we have been making every effort to launch and to steer the negotiation process in the most efficient way. This proposal has been a top priority of our presidency. The proposed regulation merges two already existing Union programs. It brings about new elements both in terms of content and structure. Aim as presidency has been to guide a thorough examination of the text and offer ample opportunities for discussions and questions. Intense work and discussions have taken place over the last four months and I would like to thank you and your teams for your contributions. The proposal has been discussed in its entirety while setting aside the provisions that will be dealt with during the horizontal negotiations on the MFF Multi Annual Financial Framework. I'm confident that this process has led all of us closer to a shared understanding of the text on the table. After listening carefully to delegations the presidency has been able to produce two compromise texts that took good account of the main concerns expressed by them. We now have an article on the committee procedure that mirrors that we have in the current regulation article 22a and two new articles meant to make the youth and sports sectors more prominent: article 4a on youth and article 4b on sport. The progress report maps the key issues that have emerged from our discussions and many of them such as the scholarships in strategic fields and the inclusion of athletes into the scope of the program deliberations are going to continue. Next discussions will resume for a final round of negotiations on the file during our presidency. I trust that our work and the progress achieved so far will provide a solid basis for the next steps in the process which will result in a Council mandate for the upcoming institutional negotiations. Would the Commission like to intervene at this stage?”
  EU volunteering programs
• “Thank you, Peter. We welcome the overall objectives and ambitions in the conclusions that [00:39:30] addresses the Commission's fisheries policy package in a constructive and pragmatic way. Therefore, Denmark supports the Council conclusions, including the aim of improving the protection and restoration of our marine ecosystems as set out in the text. All political parties in the Danish Parliament recently agreed on a new Danish Maritime Spatial Plan of the Sea with a new plan. Denmark aims to meet the targets [00:40:00] set out in the European Biodiversity Strategy. That means protecting 30% of the marine area, of which 10% has to be strictly protected areas by 2030. At the same time, up to 30% of the marine areas are reserved for renewable energy production. With these ambitious targets, coexistence is a key word between the fishing industry and renewable energy production and nature, conservation and biodiversity. [00:40:30] We also support the aim for green energy transition of the EU fisheries and agriculture sector, and we welcome this approach in the conclusions. Furthermore, we agree on the objective that well-functioning fisheries sectors requires a manageable, manageable fisheries legislation. It must be simple up to date and adapted in the sector, society and technological developments. The principle of [00:41:00] better regulation must be followed. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Any other business items on the agenda. As the first point we have, we have the information on the Tripartite Social Summit that was held on 22nd of October. As you know, this event usually takes place twice a year before the sessions of the European Council in March and October. This summit provides an opportunity for social partners to exchange their views with the highest political level in the European Union. It is an occasion for us all to reaffirm the importance of social dialogue, its essential contribution to the strength and resilience of our economy and the protection of our workers. This iteration of the Tripartite Social Summit addressed the topic of making Europe stronger and changing world that delivers for workers and enterprises. Participants at the meeting also discussed the stronger union economically and politically, as well as well as investing in productivity, affordable housing and quality jobs. Danish Presidency considers that strong social dialogue is absolutely critical as we navigate the challenges Europe faces today in these times of increasing geopolitical uncertainty, at a time when Europe must improve its competitiveness, social partners are key players, contributing to the resilient solution that we need to drive growth, productivity and innovation, and to ensure we maintain and develop quality jobs in all sectors. I will now give the floor to the Commission to complete this information point. Executive vice president Rosanna Manzato. The floor is yours.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “50:37 – 11:51:15): test it before they become a new regulation, and the aim should be to keep TSIs stable over a longer period of time. In re in regards to approval approval processes, it is important that these are improved and made simpler. These messages were also a part of the recommendations in the declaration that were press presented after the railway conference in Copenhagen during the Danish presidency. Thank you.”
  EU support of rail transport
• “Thank you very much, chair. And thank you very much to the Netherlands for putting this important issue on our agenda today. Renewable fertilizers have a significant potential, both when it comes to a shift to a more circular economy, [00:09:00] but also a positive impact on the environment and climate emissions. Moreover, the war in Ukraine has also made the case for reuse of nutrients in the EU even more clear. The Joint Research Centre, already four years ago, has defined criteria that the recycled fertilizers from manure should fulfil. But a legal framework to actually facilitate the use of renewables has not yet been proposed. So in our view, it would be very welcome if a solution could be found [00:09:30] in the meantime until the nitrates directive is revised. Thank you very much.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “Thank you. Chair. The status and working conditions of artists and cultural workers have been relevant for a long time, and during the Covid 19 pandemic, the importance of collecting data [00:39:00] and knowledge about this topic became even more apparent. In this context, Denmark found the work of the OMC working Group on Working Conditions of artists very helpful. It complemented national initiatives aimed at gathering knowledge about the working conditions of artists, and it provided a strong platform for sharing experience and best practice. In Denmark, the Ministry of Culture has recently initiated a new project on data. The aim is to establish statistics [00:39:30] on the working conditions of artists, including their employment patterns and sources of income. From our perspective, we would very much encourage a continued exchange of experience, challenges and best practice at European level. At the same time, it's important to recognize that different European countries have different models for securing the working conditions of artists. Working conditions in Denmark are generally negotiated through collective agreements between employers and [00:40:00] labour organizations, so in our view, standards and guidelines for working conditions of artists need to take into account such specific national conditions. Finally, when discussing working conditions of artists and cultural workers, we should not forget the significant contribution that these professions make to European economies, as also rightly recalled in the presidency paper, both recognizing the artistic and the economic value of the work of artists [00:40:30] and cultural professionals should therefore be a priority also in the future. Thank you very much.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you also. And thank you for [00:13:30] the intense work from the chairmanship and the in the Swedish presidency. And we'd also like to voice concern in relation to the Italian point and also, as Mr. Khanna mentioned, the connection criteria and the possibility to make a safe third country arrangements is still a very high priority from a Danish viewpoint. Thank you very much.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Thank you, Chair. Denmark would like to thank both the former Czech presidency for laying the groundwork for an excellent start of the negotiation [00:11:00] and the current Swedish presidency for an ambitious approach. We find that the proposal has moved in the right direction with many excellent amendments. This includes eased burdens for SMEs and simplified and risk based criteria for critical products. We look forward to continuing the work and we hope for swift adoption of a general approach to this effect. We will continue to work constructively towards [00:11:30] a balanced proposal. This should be based on clear and simple risk based rules that raises the level of cybersecurity in the EU quickly and that are easy to implement and enforce and do not impose undue burdens on companies or authorities. Denmark sees the CRA as a crucial piece of legislation to set minimum requirements for cybersecurity in products to improve [00:12:00] the level of protection on the single market. We look forward to continue the negotiations. Thank you.”
  Scope of EU cybersecurity obligations
• “Thank you so much, chair. The European Union is in a difficult and rapidly changing geopolitical situation for our security and also for our future success. We must become greener, more resilient and also more competitive. We cannot continue with business as usual, so to say. Action, as well as in action will come with a cost. We agree with the ambition of the Industrial Accelerator Act. We must scale up our industries, decarbonise Europe and reduce our strategic dependencies by using the power of public procurement. We can create lead markets and support European companies and industrial workers. But we are of course aware that this comes with a cost. We must be careful in how we use the tool in the eye, a focus them on where they matter most. The European Union must remain open to business and respect our international agreements. But we also need to be ready to shut the door on those who don't play by the rules, so to say. We must also make sure the proposal will work in practice, both for companies and also, of course, for public authorities. Here we see a need for adjustments and also for clarifications. We look forward to continue our constructive negotiations in the months ahead. Thank you so much, chair.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “27:05 – 16:27:45): Thank you very much, Thier. Let me be brief. I can echo exactly what the EVP said on the digital omnibus. The omnibus is there to serve a purpose, but we are truly concerned that the burden reductions that were intended may not be achieved due to the dilution that we are currently seeing, especially when it comes to the GDPR. If we continue down this road, we may not get the intended outcomes. That would be really missing an opportunity. We need to make sure that we deliver on the Draka report and that also the digital omnibus leads to the necessary burden reductions for our businesses. Thank you very much.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• “Thank you very much, chair. Denmark welcomes the discussion on how to encourage green energy transition in the EU, fisheries and agricultural sector, aquaculture sector and how to overcome the challenges. This is, of course, even more necessary in the current geopolitical situation with very high energy prices. The energy transition is an important part of ensuring sustainable fisheries, both with respect to environment and economy, and it is essential to keep a focus on long term solutions to ensure competitiveness and green transition. In this context, the involvement of stakeholders is key. The role of the Energy transition partnership for Fisheries and Agriculture is important. Its contributions, experiences and good examples must be brought forward. Moreover, regional cooperation for common solutions to common challenges within a sea basin could be facilitated further at EU level. For this effort to succeed, the legal framework of the Common Fisheries Policy must support the green transition, including energy transition and unnecessary obstacles in the path for the energy transition should be removed. Finally, in this context, simplification of the CFP remains important. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Thank you very much, chair for Denmark. It is very important that we have the best possible conditions set out here and that together we can deliver that best possible outcome by acknowledging the very important role of MSA. It's very important that MSA can focus on its core activities and that is to provide technical support to the member states and to the commission and to do that at a very high level. Now, it is also important that M ZA can support the development of digital solutions. This is one of the cornerstones that we need to address in order to improve our efficiency and to minimise the administrative burden. Generally speaking, we think that the effective use of AMSA resources is crucial and we hope that we don't prejudge the negotiations on the future MFF when it comes to the negotiations on this specific file. We do think that a good balance has been struck within this general approach, so approach, so you have our support. Thank you.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, I firmly believe that AI holds a significant significant potential for the creative sector. However, [00:00:30] we are closely monitoring the effects of on of AI on the creative sector as well. We are aware that there is a potential value gap when copyrighted material is used and the creators are not necessarily remunerated, and we have an ongoing dialogue with relevant stakeholders regarding the opportunities and challenges presented by AI. We would therefore support that at a European level. Special attention [00:01:00] is dedicated to helping the European creative sector with accelerating its digital transition. The sector should also be encouraged to embrace the opportunities offered by AI. So, without wanting to pre-empt the forthcoming discussion on the next MFF, this could, for example, be done within the framework of the Creative Europe programme. Another concern I would like to share with you is related to AI and deepfakes [00:01:30] is not confined to the cultural sector entirely reasonably, Danish politicians, our Prime Minister and leaders of different parties were the victims of deepfake done by other political players. They are, um, increasingly being used to influence elections and political debate all across the world, and especially in Europe as well. In Denmark, we are trying to handle the issue by [00:02:00] proposing national legislation and correspondence with the AI act and the DSA, because we do believe that a person, an individual, has the right to its own voice. Its own face, its own picture, and that transcends to art, intellectual property rights, business rights, etc., etc.. But more could be done and more should be done and hopefully on a European level as well. I [00:02:30] therefore do welcome that. Earlier today, president von der Leyen called for a so-called European democracy shield against fake news, deepfakes, etc. and proposing to build on the already agreed DSA and AI act. Denmark supports that, and we welcome a further and more broadened discussion within this forum as well. Thank you for the time and your consideration.”
  Artificial Intelligence
• “And we now turn to the council conclusions on the future European affordable housing plan. An increasing number of citizens in the European Union are facing challenges to access affordable housing. The commission has announced its intention to present a European affordable housing plan in the European Parliament. The Special Committee for the Housing Crisis has been established to facilitate the Parliament's work on this pressing issue. In September, in her state of the Union speech, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underlined the importance of housing as a driver for social cohesion, clearly declaring that the housing crisis is a social crisis. And in October, the European Council called on the Commission to swiftly present an ambitious and comprehensive plan for affordable housing, with the aim of supporting and complementing Member States efforts. Having due regard for the principle of subsidiarity and national competences. Against this background, the Danish Presidency found it essential for the Council to have its say and voice on the wishes and priorities for the future, while housing issues might not have a fixed council formation. We found the link between affordable housing and social inclusion obvious, and it is my pleasure to put these draft council conclusions forward on the agenda. And now let me turn to the content of the conclusions. The length, almost 20 pages, is a good illustration of the overwhelming interest and the wide range of issues debated in the negotiations.”
  EU housing policy
• “Thank you. Chair. I would like to inform you about a non-paper regarding the use of digital tools to promote free and fair movement of workers in the EU from a Danish perspective. We find it vital that free movement is also fair, and that supporting solutions could play a key role in securing fairness throughout the EU. We call on the Commission to take proactive steps to launch the European Digital Social Security Passport, or the so-called S-pass. Building on the pilot activities, in our view, the European Digital Identity Framework and the digital EU identity wallet holds great potential to be used by mobile citizens to secure, store and share a variety of digital Social Security entitlement documents. This solution would also enable social security institutions, labour inspectorates and healthcare providers to instantly verify the digital documents. These documents are already mandatory, but this would help reduce burdens on public administrators and companies alike. And of course, in enhancing our competitiveness, we believe that the introduction of the EU wallet and supporting solutions will assist in ensuring correct handling and payment of Social Security benefits to citizens moving across borders in the EU. And why stop there, you can ask? We believe that the scope of S-pass should be even broader, and we suggest that the Commission should explore the possibility of including relevant information from other sectors, as well as a preliminary step.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “Thank you. Chair. In recent years, prices on Fertilizers have indeed risen, putting pressure on our farmers. We therefore welcome the proposal from the Commission to temporarily suspend the remaining most favoured nation tariffs on ammonia, urea and, where necessary, other fertilisers. We also look forward to the forthcoming Fertiliser Action Plan. We need the right regulatory framework, innovation and to increase circularity through recycling of nutrients. The renewal proposal was a first step on the carbon border adjustment mechanism. We rely on the commission to closely monitor fertiliser prices, and we also take note of the commission's proposal on the Temporary Decarbonisation Fund. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “So, dear colleagues, the next item on today's agenda concerns the Commission's package of proposals for the Common Agricultural Policy after 2027. As we will take this item together with Austria's item under any other business, I will also invite our Austrian colleague to present the joint statement on behalf of 17 delegations. On 16th of July 2025, the Commission adopted its proposals on the future Common Agricultural Policy. When we met in September, I informed of the presidency's plan to hold a thematic discussions concerning these proposals. Our first domestic discussion will focus on the green architecture of the Commission's proposal. The presidency has prepared a note on that topic, which was shared with you here before the meeting, and as described in the note, I would like to hear from you if you agree that the proposals achieved the objective of making it simpler and more attractive for farmers to deliver on the green transition. And before we open the floor for our colleagues, I would like to invite the commissioner to say some words. Christoph, you have the floor.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you very much, dear presidency, dear ministers. A timely agreement on the 2040 target at EU level is of key importance. Our international commitments according to the Paris Agreement, requires it. Von der Leyen has raised it In her political guidelines, and investors and businesses need a predictable long term investment framework. It is essential that we start the negotiations on the target to reach a decision on the EU's next NDC well in time before Cop 30. Therefore, we support a swift proposal from the commission to enshrine the 2040 target on at least 90% in the European climate law. It should be an important priority within the first 100 days. I have three additional points to make. First, we cannot divide climate policy from industrial policy. The 2040 target is is industrial policy. It will not only benefit Europe's competitiveness and security of supply, it will also help us to be independent of fossil fuels, not least from Russia. The Commission's proposal, therefore, in our minds, should be presented alongside the upcoming clean industrial deal. Second, it is important that we implement the fit for 55 package in time. It is a difficult task, but lack of implementation creates substantial insecurity for the industry. We need to stick to the agreements made also for transport. I agree what Sweden has said on this point.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you. Chair. We agree that the serious state of the Baltic Sea calls for a holistic management approach. As has already been mentioned by previous speakers, manufacturers beyond fisheries are affecting the situation, including seals and cormorants. We generally very much appreciate the qualified work of ISIS to provide a common basis for our discussions, but we are, of course, open to discussing the processes. Thank you very much.”
  EU ocean policy
• “Thank you. Istvan. I fully agree that there is an urgent need to have an effective response at EU level to the current situation regarding African swine fever and bluetongue virus. Denmark agrees that biosecurity is a key element of prevention to mitigate the risk of introduction of African swine fever. Concerning the development of vaccines against bluetongue virus, Denmark agrees that there is a need to urge the manufacturers of vaccines to move forward and apply for fully marketing authorisation for their products as soon as possible. And finally, let me once again stress the need for strong EU measures to handle the outbreak of animal and plant diseases. Therefore, the future financing of these measures should be linked to the Common Agricultural Policy.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you, Madam Chair. Denmark welcomes the proposal, and we are especially happy about the focus on energy efficiency and climate neutrality. In Denmark, we have had good experience in reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions from the wastewater sector. In fact, we expect that our wastewater sector will become not only energy neutral, but in fact energy positive before 2030. So on that basis, we believe that we should raise the energy and climate ambitions in the proposal. In our view, there are some real low hanging fruit that could be picked that will help us reach our common climate goals at the same time. On a more general note, we also support ambitious targets on reducing nutrients, and we support an increased effort in reducing stormwater overflows. Finally, we find that the administrative and economic burdens should be proportionate to the environmental benefits, especially when it comes to the proposed EPR scheme. So with these remarks, we look forward to further negotiations on this proposal. Thank you very much.”
  Water pollution
• “Thank you very much, Maria, and all the best wishes for your presidency in the next six months. We have your back. Um, but also thank you to the commission for the presentation earlier on today, Denmark welcomes the bioeconomy strategy and supports the ambition to ensure better framework conditions for the European bioeconomy. The strategy is a positive step towards fulfilling the economy's potential for decarbonisation, as well as for competitiveness and employment. Bioeconomy can help meet the need for sustainable biomass in the EU and at the same time support efforts to ensure food security and create growth and jobs in rural and coastal areas. We therefore support to ensure efficient, circular and sustainable use of bio resources from both agriculture, forests and agriculture. It is important that we address financial and regulatory barriers and support research, innovation and scaling up bio based solutions. And here the use of the new technologies like new genomic techniques, can hopefully play a key role. This requires a level playing field for bio based and fossil products and services, and reducing regulatory complexity and efficiently reduction the time to market for bio based solutions. Moreover, Denmark supports a strong focus on bio refineries and a mainstreaming of the cascading principles across the economy. Denmark advocates a strong focus on implementing all initiatives of the strategy, and this should also be reflected in the forthcoming council's conclusions. And finally, we must not forget that the biotech act is crucial to turning the potential into reality. We need both the biotech Act one and two to access the full biotech value chain. Thank you so much.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you very much, Thier. Let me begin by congratulating the presidency on a very good job. We believe that the text which is in front of us today can indeed serve as a very fruitful basis for the upcoming negotiations with the European Parliament. Now the Agora EU is important for many, many reasons. On the one hand, it is about promoting our fundamental democratic rights and values, including media freedom, cultural diversity, and active citizenship. And on the other hand, it is closely linked to our competitiveness of the cultural and creative sectors, including the European audiovisual sector. And for those reasons, we need a future proof and flexible program that can address future challenges and possibilities. And we need to do this in a way which will reduce the admin burden for applicants in the future. In addition, we need solid and appropriate involvement of member states in the implementation of the program. And in this context, we welcome the introduction of a program committee in the final text. So all in all, a job very well done. Thank you and congratulations again to the president team.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you Christoph. The next one is Oskar from Sweden and after that Croatia. **SwedenThank you Chair, dear colleagues. First, I would like to thank the Presidency again for putting this important discussion on the agenda. Let me start by expressing the very important and dual role that VET plays for both providing broader qualifications and for targeted up- and reskilling. VET is more than just training for a specific job and this is particularly true for VET on upper secondary school, high school level. On this level, schools have the challenging task of providing both the professional skills that students need in working life and the knowledge and competencies that are needed to access further education. In Sweden, there is a high and increasing demand for workers with vocational training and on upper secondary education level. Unfortunately, too few students choose to enter VET programs in upper secondary school. This has led to a shortage of graduates and this is a persistent challenge in Sweden. Upskilling, reskilling, and skill supply are key elements of Swedish education policy. The government has taken many actions in this field over the last years. I would just like to highlight a couple of them. We have continuously increased the number of students that can be admitted and opportunities for up- and reskilling over the past years within municipal adult education, folk high schools, higher vocational education, and universities and colleges. Higher vocational education is quite a new education form in Sweden that has become a great success provided by universities, local authorities, and private training companies. These programs play an important role in meeting skill needs at post-secondary level. These programs have a strong labor market connection and are jointly designed by education providers, employers, and industry and they change over time as labor market evolves. These programs are also jointly financed by public funds and employers as students can gain diplomas at EQF level five and six. And to build further on this, the government has recently introduced a new form of nationwide vocational education for adults and upper secondary level based on the same model. The idea is to offer VET training that is highly responsive to labor market needs and pave the way for employment in shortage jobs. I think the key here is the strong connection and responsiveness to actual labor market needs, be it regional or national. And then just a few words about STEM. Earlier this year, the Swedish government presented a comprehensive STEM strategy that spans from preschool to higher education and research. This strategy will focus on making young people more interested in STEM and attracting more girls and young women to STEM education. And the key here is of course to actively stimulate interest in VET and STEM subjects already from a very early age. And to do this, we also need to put much more focus on basic skills such as literacy and maths in the lower grades. Colleagues, access to a skilled workforce and STEM skills in particular is crucial for Europe to grow as an economic power and for our industry to lead the global transition through knowledge and innovation. This is why it's important that we now make that a separate priority for the future of the European educational area. This should be an impetus for us all to work towards offering more VET opportunities and to achieve inclusion and excellence, quality, attractiveness, and to address our skill gaps. Thank you very much.”
  Focus of EU policy on education (shaping workers vs citizens)
• “And we really need that. And that is why we need to design a clear and transparent governance structure, one that integrates, not separates, and one that ensures that the right expertise, including within research and innovation, will be involved on an equal footing. At the same time, the effective participation of Member States and stakeholders must be ensured, and for all of this to succeed, more alignment and more co-funding is called for, and this will also be necessary to get the necessary buy in. So we need to collaborate, and we need to coordinate much more to handle the increased complexity of the challenges, but also the opportunities we face. One example is quantum technologies. It's not enough that we create and demonstrate high research quality. This has to go hand in hand with scale talent pipelines. Test BET's access to capital and pathways to deployment. So we call on the commission to take good note of the call for a clear and transparent governance structure. And we also see this to be in line with the content of the Spanish AOB, which will be the next item on our agenda. Um, yeah. Finally, we need to solve some issues concerning the division of work between the ECF and horizon. Um, especially when it comes to the EIC defence research and innovation as well as partnerships. One last point concerning the future partnerships, and the up to 20% support for deconstruction or upgrades of major infrastructure. We are open to discussing this, but it is of key importance to have an open and transparent process when it comes to the identification and selection of partnerships and infrastructures with the involvement of Member States. Thank you very much.”
  EU-level coordination of research agendas
• “Thank you. Esteban. The proposal is of great importance. The proposal will ensure the competitiveness of European agriculture and farmers in the future. It is crucial that we give our plant breeders and farmers the necessary tools to adapt to this future of transformed agricultural production. This is a clear possibility to ensure the European farmers access to new technology, and thus new earnings, with access to new genomic techniques. Plant breeders will be able to develop crops that can contribute to more resilient food systems in the EU. Colleagues in this council, we frequently discuss the negative consequences of extreme weather. We can't do anything about the weather, but we could decide to use available technologies that will make a real difference. The council is close to reaching a compromise on this file. Only few elements remains. We hope that an agreement can be achieved soon without increasing the red tape. We should not end up with basically copying the current GMO regulation. This is not GMO. This is new genomic techniques. Something very different.”
  New Genomic Techniques