Government of Denmark

Policy topics Government of Denmark is active on

What Government of Denmark has said (80)

• 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
• 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
• “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)
• “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
• “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
• “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
• “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
• “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 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
• “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
• “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 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. 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. 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
• “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
• “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
• “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
• “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
• “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, 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)
• “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)
• “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. 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)
• “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 support for bioeconomic applications
• “Now let us turn to the next point on the agenda, namely on the European Semester. We will take all. We will take all subitems unblock in one single intervention. The European Pillar of Social Rights serves as a compass for Europe's social policy agenda.”
  European Semester (social dimension)
• “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. 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.”
  Water pollution
• “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 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
• “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. 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, 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
• “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. 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 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. 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
• “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 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)
• “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 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 support for bioeconomic applications
• “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
• “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 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
• “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 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)
• “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. And I would like to thank the presidency for your work on this important proposal. The proposal is of high priority to Denmark, as it will allow European farmers to benefit from the new plant varieties developed with these techniques. A high level of safety for consumers and the environment is essential in this regard. We have noted the assessments by Efsa and and the [00:10:00] Commission. Therefore, we have confidence in this in the proposal as it stands, in my view, the positive effects of the new breeding techniques should also benefit the organic sector, for example by allowing the use of NJG one in organic production. I know there are divided views on this. Regardless of the results, we must ensure that the new rules do not result in unnecessary administrative burdens and costs for the organic sector. I've also noted that some of my colleagues want to label entity one products. I respectfully disagree. I do not believe that this information would be meaningful for the consumers. Furthermore, a label would add unnecessary burdens on producers and thereby increase food prices. This is not in the interest of consumers. Regarding the possibility of opt out, this will undermine the internal market and the use of entities. It will. Therefore, it will thereby [00:11:00] be more difficult to fulfill the goals of the Green Deal. Lastly, Denmark supports that the regulation of patents on plants is handled in the European patent legislation. I sincerely hope that we can reach a general approach before the end of the year for the common benefit of our farmers, consumers and the environment. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “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, Chair. First of all, thank [00:05:00] you for your hard and dedicated work on this file. It's been difficult negotiations, but you have been committed to finding the right balanced compromise, and I hope you will be successful in concluding a general approach. I would also like to thank the Commission for the important initiative. Digital transformation is changing the labour market and we need to keep up to ensure that everyone has good working conditions. We have. As [00:05:30] stated by the presidency and the commissioner. Important economic possibilities here. But the future here, the new economic opportunities of the future, must not lead to a return to the past. When it comes to workers rights and conditions, and this is what we secure here, we wish to have a strong and clear instrument to secure, to ensure correct determination of employment status. Negotiations [00:06:00] have shown that there are different views and interests and we need we find the current text is a balanced proposal which accommodates these various views. We need to act now in the spirit of compromise. The Danish government is ready to support the proposal as it stands. Thank you, Chair.”
  Platform workers
• “Thank [00:29:00] you very much. Chair, I would like to thank the presidency for all the hard work done on this file. And I'm happy to say that Denmark support the text in front of us today. It's important for us, the member states can maintain well-functioning national solutions where these already exist. As an example, in Denmark we have a long standing tradition for the sharing of masts for antennas which we would like to keep, and that is why we are satisfied that it has been underlined in the text that the rules represent [00:29:30] minimum harmonisation. We are also very satisfied that the proposed rules on tacit approval of permits have been removed from the council. Text. Uh, the concept of tacit approval raises many concerns of both legal and practical nature for us. Um, and it's very important for us that the council sticks to this line in the upcoming Trilogues. And we count on both the Spanish presidency and the Belgian presidency to bear this in mind. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on accessibility of digital infrastructure
• “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. And thank you to you, Max, and the presidency for the hard work on advancing this very important package. It's important to keep momentum on the Savings and investment union because. But it's also complex stuff. So of course, we need to make sure that doesn't come with the expense of of quality. As some of you might know, Denmark is still in the process of forming a new government following our general election. So I'll be honored to be able to speak in broad terms today. We fully support the objective of deeper, more efficient and better integrated EU capital markets. It's important to ensure that our businesses, from the small, small startups to the largest listed companies, have easy access to capital, and any changes that we make should of course, support that goal. We are open to discuss changes to how we supervise capital markets at the EU level, also including centralization and enhanced role for asthma, where this will add value. In our view, any reforms should deliver on four different things. First of all, well documented benefits for market participants. Second, faster, more consistent and efficient supervisory decisions. Third, improved oversight of cross border investments and risks. And finally, less fragmentation and no unnecessary burdens for market driven consolidation where activities are genuinely cross border. There is a stronger case for EU level supervision. On that basis, Denmark can see the merit and ESMA directly supervising certain larger entities with significant cross border activities. This also means that supervision of smaller entities, including without significant cross border activity, also including smaller crypto asset service providers, should remain national.”
  Financial regulation
• “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
• “15:44 – 10:17:48): Thank you so much, president. In Denmark, few days ago, we formed a new government, which means that I am new to this council. During the last government term, I served as minister for higher education science. I will continue to do so, and now also happy to take on the responsibilities for digital affairs. To me and to the new Danish government, it is of paramount importance that the EU really moves forward on the digital agenda in order to strengthen EU's competitiveness and improve our digital sovereignty. So I look forward to get to know all of you and to work closely together with you on this important area. On the European business wallets, I would like to thank the presidency for the hard work that you have devoted to this important file. Denmark strongly supports the ambition of the European business wallets. I believe the proposal is a major step forward to reduce administrative burdens and thereby strengthening the single markets. European businesses spend too much time filling out paper forms and showing up physically at local offices to deliver even the simplest information. I do not believe this is to our advantage. Therefore, a harmonized digital tool can help address that and make it easier for businesses across the European Union. Going forward, I, absolutely agree with what the commissioner said that time is of essence. At the same time, we also welcome the approach chosen by the presidency regarding implementation, ensuring the necessary flexibility for member states to make the most of existing well functioning digital solutions, of course. So in conclusion, let me just repeat Denmark's support for the general approach. I wish the presidency and the upcoming Irish presidency good luck. In the trilogue, I believe it is important to get this 1 done. Thank you.”
  Electronic identity
• “Thank you so much. And I'd also like to thank the presidency for your progress report and for keeping this important file moving forward. Maybe I should also just underline that I believe there is a strong need for a European Space Act ensuring a stronger and less fragmented European market for space industry. We agree that scope and governance are two of the key outstanding issues. And on this I have three points that I would like to make. First, the technical requirements of the act should be effective, be based on established guidelines and standards, and they should be focused on enhancing space safety and on limiting space debris. Second point the act should apply these requirements broadly on both private and public activities with an exemption for clear defence use. We should not create a patchwork of exemption trying to navigate the complicated sea of dual use and public private companies, and we should not give ourselves the difficult task of explaining to our commercial space companies that the act and its requirements are perfect for them, but far too heavy and limiting for the governments. That does not sound like simplification and competitiveness. Third point instead of exemptions, we should create a governance governance that is light and flexible for all. And with Member states safely in the driving seats, on decisions on supervision and enforcement, in particular on governmental activities. So in short, we support a European Space Act that is strong on safety, broaden application and flexible in governance, and workable for both public and private actors. Thank you.”
  EU competences on space policy
• “Thank you. Istvan. We recognize that the last few years have been challenging for many European farmers. Due to extreme weather events, climate change and extreme weather will continue to have big consequences for the agricultural sector. This will lead to changes in the agricultural production in the EU. We will have to help farmers to change their production and lower the risks. Long term solutions need to be considered. However, we must also look into how farmers can have a greater incentive for investing in preventive measures and technologies. Here, it is extremely important that we ensure progress in the negotiations of the proposal on net in plant breeding. Thank you very much.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “15:00 – 14:16:57): Thank you, Maileena. We support a stronger and better integrated single markets. We did not view the MFF as the primary tool to achieve this, but there are still some ways in which the budget can support a stronger single market. The budget must support sound economic policies in member states. It must underpin a high level of mobilization of private investments to support projects with high EU added value, including cross border infrastructure. Increased flexibility will be key to addressing common challenges in an ever changing world. We need to ensure flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and challenges during the next MFF period. The next MFF must be modernized to enable us to deliver on our ambitions and the challenges of the future. It must also be financially responsible. The budget could be larger than today. We do not see ourselves as frugal. We do see ourselves as modernizers. If it is so, the budget could be higher, but it has to be linked with modernization and new priorities. The proposed increase is however much too high. We expect to see this reflected in the revised negotiation box from the presidency. We are in geopolitical changing times. And if we want to be independent and and decide for own future, the next MFF will have to be able to address the challenges of the future, not those of the past. We need a modernized budget, simpler, more effective, and focused on European strategic priorities. Defense and security, support for Ukraine, and European competitiveness priorities. We need a financially responsible budget. Tough prioritization will be needed to finance new priorities. This includes a reduction of traditional spending and more efficient administration. Otherwise, we cannot finance new priorities. We are open to discussing new owned resources. However, they are new contribution from member states, and they are no easy fix. We cannot support the core proposal, which can harm European competitiveness. And then last but not least, I just want to say that Denmark fully support the content of the letter of conditionality in which Jessica mentioned. We were not able to sign the letter due to the general election in Denmark at that time, but we do, however, support the content. Thank you.”
  Size of EU budget
• “The results of the vote are now displayed. I note that the required qualified majority has been reached, and that the act is adopted and the delegation agreed. We continue with the adoption of the regulation on a progressive start of operation of the entry exit system. This regulation allows member states to gradually, gradually introduce the entry exit border management system over a period of six months. It aims to keep our borders safe and reduce the likelihood of of identify fraud and overstay. The council should now be able to approve the European Parliament's positions as set out in the document P. S 1725. Denmark and Ireland are not taking part in the adoption of this regulation, and are not bound by it or subject to its application. The results of the vote are now displayed. I note that the required qualified majority has been reached and that the act is adopted. Finally, the council is going to adopt an amendment to the regulation on gas storage. This regulation extends by two years member states obligations to have enough gas in storage before the winter season, in order to reduce the union's exposure to volatile prices. It also introduces additional flexibilities for member states to adapt to involving market conditions and to address market manipulations. The counties should now be able to approve the European Parliament's position as set out in the document. P 2725. The result of the vote are now displayed. I note that the required qualified majority has been reached and that the act is adopted. And with that, the list of legislative items is approved and this concludes this. Items. Good. And then our first agenda item should be we. We have to close off the cameras.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Thank you so much, chair. Dear Nicodemus, and thank you very much for all your hard work on Horizon Europe during your presidency. The backdrop of the framework programme is serious and also well known. We need to strengthen our competitiveness, strategic autonomy, our security and defence. And on that note, on defence, I would like therefore, to first express my full support to the presidency when it comes to the text, allowing support to purely defence applications in a ring fenced way under the EIC. It is my political conviction that in general research and innovation does not and should not exist in a vacuum. At a time where Europe is facing unprecedented threats on our eastern and northern flanks. The EU's research and innovation instruments should be also be part of the security solutions. I also fully support the dual use approach, as modern breakthroughs in all technology fields are cross-sectoral by nature and therefore maintaining a strict separation will prevent the best ideas from reaching the areas where they can be most useful. Dear friends, just this morning in Romania, Russian drones injured several citizens. This has already been condemned by NATO. I would like to take also this occasion to express my full solidarity with Romania. But this happened this morning. People in Europe, in an EU member state injured by Russian drones. And yet here we are in doubt on whether to build our own security and with our own money and our own ideas and research. Um we talk a lot about solidarity and security in these years, and I think it's time that we also shows what that means in, in action. And it is our hope that when it comes to dual use and defense research, in the next program, that we will reach the right security solutions that are timely for, uh, the reality in which Europe find ourselves.”
  EU competences on defence
• “On a concrete note, we also believe that a more proportionate solution should be found with regard to the proposed group criterion for significance regarding the governance of asthma, we find it important that the organisation and governance structure of asthma ensures efficient supervision for entities under centralised supervision, including by delivering fast and high quality supervisory decisions. We therefore expect to support an independent executive board at ESMA in order for ESMA to streamline internal decision making process. At the same time, stronger central powers require stronger accountability. For that reason, Denmark questions whether members of the Executive Board should hold voting rights within the Board of Supervisors. Such voting rights risk blurring responsibilities and weakening the necessary checks and balances between the two bodies. Secondly. National expertise and cooperation with national authorities should continue to play a strong role for activity where there is a shared competence between asthma and the national competent authorities. We see the expertise and market knowledge of the national authorities as essential for the work to create supervisory competence, to ensure the role of national authorities is therefore important that the Board of Supervisors in Asthma continues to have a strong role. We believe that the proposed cooperation arrangements between asthma and national competent authorities have merit. However, the scope should be clearly focused on supervisory areas and there is a need to further work on the balance. Lastly, a clear division of tasks and competences between asthma and the national competent authorities is fundamental to avoid duplicate structures and also which is also important to minimize costs. We look forward to engaging constructively as this important work continues.”
  Financial regulation
• “I personally worry that we research ministers will place ourselves on this side instead of the centre of influence, with requests for extra reports and advisory discussions that do not match the governance model described in the ECF. And this would not be optimal. On the partnerships, they make up a substantial part of the current horizon. Europe around 25% of the total budget. I expect for partnerships to be a substantial part of the next framework programme too. It is therefore very important that we get this one right. It is through the partnerships that we can respond to some of the most pertinent calls in the Draghi report for partnerships to succeed. We need to create a landscape that is interesting enough for private stakeholders, such as industry, SMEs and foundations to engage in and co-finance and take up results from. To me, the element of partnerships is one of the most important and one of the least mature parts of the text. We still need more information from the Commission as uncertainties are, of course counterproductive, and we still need to work on the text that ensures that we member states have a say over future partnerships. I therefore hope the presidency will prioritise dedicated negotiations on partnerships in the coming weeks. So to conclude, we need to get all of these key parts right to set a strong frame for the next horizon. Europe. So once again, thank you so much for your very hard work so far, and best of luck in the remaining time of your presidency. Thank you.”
  EU-level coordination of research agendas
• “Secondly, the young people, far too many young people still are neither in education nor in employment. That is why the Danish government has initiated a number of structural and preventive measures to address this. This includes the so-called Youth Promise, which focuses on intervention. Intervention based initiatives where we give young people targeted help to. Realize their potential. Over the next ten years, we will continue to invest in the Neet group in Denmark through initiatives aimed at employment, education and community oriented activities. Finally, we are in the process of reforming our active labour market policy programmes and this aims at simplifying legislation and giving more autonomy to the municipalities, with the aim of enabling tailor made efforts to ensure that all unemployed persons are met with dignity, and that they get the best possible help to re-enter the labour market. So, in conclusion, we have to continue to find better ways of activating, upskilling and reskilling our workforce and to make sure that we use the full potential of the labor at our disposal. And to that end, the European semester and our exchanges in this format provide much appreciated inputs. Thank you very much.”
  Youth employment & training
• “Thank you. I'd like to thank the Swedish presidency for all the work which has been done. Thank you for these proposals and thank you to the Czech delegation for having put this important topic on the agenda. First of all, I would like to say that I understand the discussion we're having today. But there are very good reasons why we should continue our ambitious [00:15:30] work with this proposal because it will need two decades before we get fossil fuel engines off our roads. We need to continue to have very high standards for these conventional vehicles. We know that bad air quality reduces life expectancy for thousands of Europeans every year. And as a result, it's very important to continue our [00:16:00] work. We need to continue working on Euro seven. So thank you very much to the presidency for having conducted these negotiations.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you very much, David. Back in September last year, I raised the issue of simplification and better regulation. Since then, simplification has become centre stage in our discussions on the AgriFood sector and its future. Today I would like to highlight how important it is that our legislation also supports innovation and efficiency. In the AgriFood sector, the sector is facing a number of challenges. Innovation is vital to remain competitive globally and necessary to deliver on the green transition. Biotech solutions have great potential when it comes to both of these challenges. Therefore, it is extremely important that EU legislation does not create unnecessary barriers. On the contrary, it should support the development and uptake of these technologies. A relevant and timely example is the regulation on new genomic techniques. In plant breathing. It is vital that we get a new proportionate regulation in place as soon as possible. Another example is bio pesticides. We need to give farmers more sustainable alternatives when we ask them to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers. Innovative feed additives can also bring many benefits such such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions from animals, but there is a need to simplify the approval process without compromising safety. I would also like to thank the commission for the communication on biotech and biomanufacturing. It is an important first step containing many good initiatives. In particular, I look forward to the commission study on how relevant EU legislation could be further streamlined and I hope it'll become a starting point for regulatory reform on the next commission. Finally, I cannot help finding it a bit ironic that earlier today we have discussed issues such as droughts and other affordable weather conditions. We can't control the weather, but it is in our power to promote technologies such as the entities that could make a real difference for farmers across Europe. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you very much, Luis. And firstly, I would like to thank the presidency for all the hard work that you have done on this important proposal from a Danish perspective. We are generally satisfied with the text that is on the table today, but we have also to underline that we should not water down the proposal any further. I would like to repeat our position that the organic sector should have the possibility to benefit from the advantages on energy one, and I hope for a new discussion on this issue when we receive the evaluation of impact on the organic sector. Some Member States have asked to introduce full labelling on category one products in the entire product production chain. Denmark would not support such an extension of labelling for category one to cover food and feed products [00:16:00] to the consumers. Such labelling would increase the costs of food and feed, due to the need for traceability and separation in all parts of the value chain. In addition, we do not think that it would be meaningful for most consumers. With that being said, it is of utmost importance that we get the regulation in place for the benefit of the green transformation of the agriculture sector in Europe. Entities [00:16:30] can provide solutions for some of the challenges facing the agricultural sector. First of all, crops could become more resilient to effects caused by climate change, for example, droughts. But plants could also become more resistant to pests and diseases, thereby reducing the use of harmful substances. Therefore, I hope that we are all willing to compromise so that we can reach a general approach today. We also encourage the incoming [00:17:00] Belgian presidency to give this proposal priority to reach an agreement with the European Parliament. Finally, I would like again to call on the Commission to take a similar initiative as soon as possible with regard to the regulation of new genomic techniques used in micro-organisms. Thank you very much.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you very much, Thier. Let me begin by expressing our sincere support for the colleagues from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania in their efforts to strengthen the protection of their civil transport infrastructure and populations against malicious intent, including from drones. Denmark fully supports the work done in the EU to strengthen coordination, the exchange of good practices, and capacity building when it comes to the security and preparedness related aspects on authorized on offered on of unauthorized drones and other airborne threats. And in light of the current secured landscape, Denmark finds that there is a need for closer European cooperation in the area of counter drone security. Thank you very much.”
  Cybersecurity investments for critical infrastructure
• “Let us now turn to the first any other business item today which is an information point by the Commission on the twenty twenty five annual progress report on simplification implementation and enforcement of Commission Executive Vice President Bruxheimer Minsal. The report covers a number of key measures undertaken during the period from January to July twenty twenty five. Dear Roxana, the floor is yours.”
  Accounting and auditing of EU budget
• “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 David. Denmark [00:11:30] supports the Commission's proposal for the EU reduction target for 2040. All sectors must contribute to meet the EU climate targets. But we have to look at the risk of carbon leakage and how we can best avoid it. Denmark believes the best way forward is to introduce emissions trading in agriculture sector, combined with a stronger green focus in the Common Agricultural Policy, common EU tools will help us reach our climate targets without the risk of carbon leakage [00:12:00] across member states. We must design a common agricultural policy that helps farmers in the green transition with less bureaucracy, more simple rules lower the administrative burden and faster implementation of new technologies such as NDC, that can help the farmers deliver on their environmental and climate targets. Eu farmers should be given the possibility of producing more food product food products with a lower climate footprint. Thank you.”
  Climate efforts
• “Yeah. Thank you, Madam Chair. And thank you to the presidency for your intensive work on this important file. Our water bodies are under pressure right now. In Denmark, for instance, we are experiencing severe oxygen [00:18:30] depletion and extinction of marine life in our coastal waters. We have an obligation to ease that pressure and lower the pollution of our inland waters and marine environment. And to this end, the Urban Waste Water Directive is a key tool. This is also why Denmark has supported the high ambition level in the Commission's proposal. However, [00:19:00] looking at the compromise text today, I am afraid that we are missing the opportunity. There are positive steps forward, but unfortunately also promising elements that have been severely diluted during the negotiations. On the positive side, Denmark is content that we hopefully can agree on introducing the Quaternary treatment and thereby reduce micropollutants from the wastewater. [00:19:30] We are also in full support of the focus on energy efficiency, although I believe we should have aimed higher. And having said that, I regret that the general dilution of important elements of the proposal. Let me just mention the targets on nutrients reductions. Denmark supports ambitious targets. It is crucial for the marine environment that we lower the discharge of nutrients. Unfortunately, [00:20:00] the compromise proposal goes in an opposite direction. Denmark cannot accept any further dilutions on this part. We cannot end up with a text that provides lower ambition than the rules we have today. We need actually the opposite, or else we will be failing our responsibility to protect our waters. So in conclusion, Denmark would have liked to see a more ambitious result. We are taking a step forward, but we are also [00:20:30] missing the opportunity of making significant improvements. However, in the spirit of an overall compromise, Denmark can accept the general approach as it stands. Thank you, Madam Chair.”
  Water pollution
• “Thank you very much, chair. I'd like to inform you about an initiative from Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Denmark. [00:02:30] We have sent a letter to the commission in which we call for an even stronger EU commitment to improve health and safety at work in relation to dangerous substances in the workplace. By constantly updating our limit values on dangerous substances, we can minimise the health damage caused by exposure at work. No one should get sick from working exposed for dangerous substances, but still far [00:03:00] too many do. Health and safety at work is a key task for the EU, an area where Europe creates real added value for real people. Significant progress has been made in recent years, not least thanks to the work of the commission. But as my Dutch colleague also pointed out at the Epsco in December 2020, there is still a large number of substances for which there are no limit values at European [00:03:30] level. Therefore, we should accelerate the process of setting limit values for dangerous substances. We could, for instance, do this by increasing the capacity to prepare scientific opinions for chemicals, and by allocating adequate resources for all actors involved. Going into a new five year work programme, we should remember this very important task for the EU and make sure that we invest sufficient [00:04:00] resources in health and safety at work. I hope you can all support this initiative. A stronger focus would not only increase the protection of workers, but also contribute to a more level playing field and to higher labour productivity, employment attractiveness and the European economy overall. Thank you chair.”
  EU rules on hazardous working conditions
• “It delivers the same purpose but are more efficient. We recognise that the proposal seeks to promote pbas, but the strong emphasis on CFDs could end up undermining this. Second, to include repowering would not be a precise and cautious change. This has to be considered a retroactive element and we need to. Stability and predictability to ensure the investments. We need further elaboration on this issue. Third, revenues from the CFD should be flexible for the member states to use. While two way CFDs generate revenues in the event of high prices, they also mean public expenses in the event of low prices. Earmarking the revenue to consumers increased the burden on the public offers by making the business case weaker. This could slow down the build out of renewable energy. Some projects may no longer be feasible to build. This is opposite of what should be our aim. Finally, it is important that the reform does not delay or cause uncertainty for projects that are already under planning in the Member States. We therefore need a phase in of the reform that allows us to keep momentum. Thank you.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Thank you. Denmark really welcomes the presented simplification package on agriculture, and hopefully this will be the first in a row of simplification packages. It would be very helpful if we could reach an agreement on the proposal within a time frame that would allow member states to take advantage of the possibilities in the proposal already from 2026. I also noted Commissioner Hansen, in his introduction, mentioned that simplification should be a key driver in the future policy, and I fully agree to that. We share the ambition to deliver quick and concrete results on simplification. Simplification is not a matter of backsliding when it comes to deliver on political goals, for instance regarding environmental or climate goals, but it should give the farmers better tools in the toolbox for them to reach the goals. At the same time, Denmark regrets that the proposal was not accomplished, accompanied by an impact assessment in line with the commission's own guidelines for better regulation. Simplification is highly needed and we need it fast. We look forward to taking the proposal forward quickly under the Danish presidency. Thank you so much.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you. Chair. With the upcoming European election, this discussion could not be more timely. It is key that women can engage, succeed and lead in politics on the same basis as men. Firstly, because it is a democratic problem. If women do not have equal access to [00:22:00] participation in forming our society and shape the future. Secondly, because we make better decisions when both men and women are represented, luckily, we are seeing positive developments in Denmark. Around 43 of the members of the Danish Parliament are women. Two of our last three prime ministers are female. The Danish EU Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, is a woman and we have a gender equal [00:22:30] European Commission headed by a woman. However, there are still challenges to ensure an equal and free playing field for women and men in politics. I have felt this myself as first hand. My competences as a politician and as a mother has repeatedly been questioned. This has not been the case for my male counterparts. Therefore, we need strong role models to young women who wish to engage in politics [00:23:00] to show that it is possible to be a woman, a mother and a politician all at the same time. Moreover, female politicians often experience harassment, including sexual and digital harassment. This can limit women's participation in politics as well as in the public life. To prevent and combat harassment, the Danish government has taken a range of actions within [00:23:30] the last couple of years, including several legislative changes to combat to combat sexual harassment, for instance, legislation against digital harassment and abuse, higher compensation for victims of sexual harassment, whistleblower mechanisms and clarifications of the responsibilities of employers employers. Stronger public inspections at workplace. However, legislation is [00:24:00] not enough. We need lasting cultural change. We need to change workplace cultures and promote respect and inclusion. To maintain the idea behind the MeToo movement, we have established an alliance against sexual harassment with 32 representatives across social partners, educational institutions, NGOs and youth organisations. The alliance worked [00:24:30] to promote a cross-sectoral and broad focus from all relevant partners on how to make cultural changes and combat sexism and sexual harassment. But I don't think there's one silver bullet. The Alliance doesn't do it alone. We all have a responsibility to take initiatives and to keep pushing to make a real and lasting difference. Thank you.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• “Maria, and thank you all for your valuable contributions. It has been very, very inspiring to hear, uh, all your plans, your ideas, your initiatives that have been taken and hopefully they can be taken into the work done by the Commission with developing the upcoming protein strategy, also referred to in the Vision Plan for agriculture. Christoph, do you want to add something?”
  EU policy on novel foods
• “Thank you. Chair. I think nobody is questioning the importance of a strong industrial base for the European economy, for our security or for our strategic autonomy. But the question is how to find the right remedies. High energy costs is indeed a problem. It should be taken seriously. But the answer, frankly speaking, is not to go back. The answer is to strengthen innovation and investments in clean alternatives to fossil fuels. This will lower cost and it will permanently reduce our dependencies. We live in a context where European security is directly linked to reducing our imports of fossil fuels. We need to boost domestic European energy production and we need to electrify and decarbonise industry. Now, when it comes to the ETS regulation, we do recognise that some European industries are struggling and we all know that the ETS is already scheduled to be revised later this year. But the answer cannot be to backtrack on our long term commitments. We need the ETS to be stable. It is crucial for the European companies to feel safe when making investments. Right now, companies are changing. They are modernizing to stay competitive, and they do so based on the rules and decisions that we take.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “And they expect predictability for their investments. And to echo the Swedish intervention, for sure, we cannot undermine or punish those industries who actually did their homework and invest it in time to remain competitive. So in short, we need to stay on track. We need to ensure a stable regulatory framework to ensure long term investments in the green transition. This is the structural the permanent way of maintaining industrial competitiveness rather than short term measures. On the chemicals industry. In addition to what I just mentioned, we also believe that part of the solution is to develop new biotechnological solutions that can work as alternatives to traditional fossil based chemicals. And here we hope that the ECF and the Biotech Act will underpin this. Finally, on automotive also here we see the green transition as the way forward. Only yesterday new numbers came out that showed that when you compare January 25th to this year, in one year, the sale of EVs in Europe increased by 24.2%. 24.2%. So clearly, we will not become competitive by turning back the clock. And we cannot win in the future with the solutions of the past. Thank you very much.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “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