Željana ZOVKO

Policy topics Željana ZOVKO is active on

What Željana ZOVKO has said (47)

• 2026-06-16 “(11:33:32 – 11:34:57): Thank you, madam president, madam commissioner, high representative. On a day when the European parliament is voting on the final breakthrough for the implementation of the Tambourri agreement with The United States, we have a good news coming from diplomatic breakthrough in US and Iran deal announcement. We look with hope towards the full reopening of the Strait Of Hormuz, restoring the free flow of goods and energy supplies that are vital for global economic stability. It is needless to repeat from this house how much preventive diplomacy was needed and how many of the costs we are facing today could have been avoided. Food security, energy security, and economic stability were all at stake at this game of war. Any final agreement with Iran must guarantee that nuclear weapons can never be acquired by authoritarian regimes and that their support for proxy actors responsible for violence and destabilizing across the the region is brought to a definitive end. We must focus on achieving lasting peace in Lebanon, the only remaining multi multi confessional country in The Middle East and the victim of proxy conflicts that Iran sought to wage. Lasting stability requires a sovereign and secure Lebanon and the full implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1 7 0 1. Thank you. Thank you.”
  EU-Iran relations
• 2026-06-15 “Yes. Yes, presidente. For decades, Europe and The United States have stood stood together as a true brothers in arms, united by shared values, common sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy. Today, in a world of growing geopolitical uncertainty and economic fragmentation, our Transatlantic partnership must remain a source of strength. Strong alliances require trust, reciprocity, and a vision. Europe and America must continue to move forward together not only as allies, but as partners shaping the future together. The Transatlantic relation relationship is not only about economics. It's about values, jobs, strategic resilience, and our ability to act together in increasingly competitive world. But today, our partnership is being tested not only by geopolitical challenges, but also by economic uncertainty. Uncertainty. At a time when industries on both sides of The Atlantic are under pressure, thousands of jobs are at stake, and our citizens expect leadership and responsibility. This is why I called for approval of this deal, not simply as an economic agreement, but as a strategic decision that protects jobs, strengthen our industries, and reinforce the Transatlantic partnership that has guaranteed prosperity for generations. True allies stand together not only in times of conflict, but also when the future of their economy and workers is online.”
  EU-US trade relations
• 2026-02-25 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 11.6.2026 Written question In line with Regulation No 1 from 1958 [1] , EU legislation is published in all EU official and working languages and natural and legal persons can write to the Commission in all of them, including Croatian, and will receive a reply in the same language. On its main website [2] , the Commission provides information in all EU official languages, including Croatian. Practical information on citizens’ rights and administrative and legal procedures is also provided in all EU official languages [3] , including Croatian. When information is particularly relevant for speakers of a specific language, it is usually drafted and published in that language or translated into it. In such instances, other languages may be provided through machine translation. An example of this is the website of the Commission’s Representation in Croatia [4] , where the content is drafted and published in Croatian. This balanced approach ensures that the Commission’s online communication with citizens fully adheres to the principle of multilingualism. [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:01958R0001-20130701. [2] https://commission.europa.eu. [3] https://european-union.europa.eu, https://europa.eu/youreurope or https://e-justice.europa.eu. [4] https://croatia.representation.ec.europa.eu/.”
  Multilingualism in EU institutions
• 2026-01-14 “Answer given by Mr McGrath on behalf of the European Commission 27.4.2026 Written question The award of EU funding is the outcome of a highly competitive and transparent process under which proposals submitted after open calls for proposals are evaluated based on pre-announced award criteria. The award criteria used for evaluating proposals under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme (CERV) [1] are relevance, quality and impact, and they have remained unchanged since the launch of the programme and are applied consistently to all applicants. The selection and award of proposals are under the direct responsibility of the Evaluation Committee made of European Education and Culture Executive Agency’s and Commission’s staff. The Committee may be assisted by independent external experts. Before starting their work, experts are thoroughly briefed on evaluation procedures, the award criteria of the relevant call for proposals and the terms of their contracts. The list of experts is published on the EU Funding and Tenders Portal [2] in the year following the evaluation, in line with the Financial Regulation [3] . All applicants are informed about the results of their proposal’s evaluation and provided with feedback that can serve to improve future applications. As for all the calls, applicants have the possibility to appeal the results of the evaluation. Unsuccessful applicants can apply for other funding opportunities under the CERV programme or, where relevant, other programmes such as Horizon Europe [4] or Erasmus+ [5] . Funding opportunities are published on the Funding and Tender portal [6] . [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1); ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/692/oj. [2] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/how-to-participate/reference-documents?programmePeriod=2021-2027&frameworkProgramme=43251447. [3] Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast); ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj. [4] Regulation (EU) 2021/695 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing Horizon Europe — the framework Programme for Research and Innovation, laying down its rules for participation and dissemination, and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1290/2013 and (EU) No 1291/2013 (Text with EEA relevance); ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/695/oj. [5] Regulation (EU) 2021/817 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing Erasmus+: the Union Programme for education and training, youth and sport and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1288/2013 (Text with EEA relevance); ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/817/oj. [6] EU Funding and Tenders Portal https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home.”
  Regulation of NGOs in Europe · Conditions to access EU budget
• 2025-02-12 “E-000638/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU supports the different Iraqi institutions in strengthening democratic and inclusive governance, with the full participation of all components of the Iraqi society, including women and youth, as well as ethnic and religious minorities. The need to protect and improve the situation of minorities is raised regularly by the EU on its interactions with the authorities, notably in the ongoing electoral period ahead of the 11 November 2025 legislative elections. Most recently, this was also conveyed by the EU side at the recent 8 th EU-Iraq InterParliamentary meeting held on 14 May 2025 in Brussels. The EU supports, empowers and is in regular contact with Iraqi civil society organisations and human rights defenders as important components of the society. In recent weeks, the EU Delegation in Iraq has held conversations with Christian, Yazidi and Mandaean-Sabaean representatives from all across Iraq. These discussions revealed some degree of frustration about the current minority quota seats process not resulting in better representation. The concrete outcome of EU engagement with civil society representatives is to improve their capacity and political participation as well as understanding of the positions of the different communities to better tackle and raise their case when interacting with both the national and regional authorities.”
  EU competences on human rights · EU engagement with Christian communities inside and outside the EU
• “I thank you very much, Madam Commissioner. I invited you a few weeks ago to attend the meeting on the anniversary of the 30 years of Dayton Peace agreement. You didn't come. You didn't have time. Last week, I was at the hearing in US Congress on the situation in Western Balkan, where Max Primorac has offered European Parliament a solution for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and to stop social engineering and to save and preserve at least some peace and reconciliation in that country by giving all three communities Dayton, Dayton, Paris Peace Agreement guaranteed to them. After that, I was attacked by Minister of Defense, uh, naming me a bastard and retarded because I attended to this hearing in American Congress. American Embassy stood with Max Primrose, who is American citizen Luigi Zorica. Your ambassador is still not giving any declaration, not standing with me as a representative of European Parliament, of defending European Parliament's decisions. And please do something about your ambassadors who are on the ground, who are not standing with the women, not standing with MEPs and not standing with their job what they are paid for. Thank you.”
  EU relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina
• “I thank you very much. So, um. Over the past week, we have been reading news that are far from promising. Some considered destabilizing, destabilizing for the transatlantic partnership. Given the cross investment and shared ownership. Many EU companies were hit by both EU steel and aluminium rebalancing tariffs and the US and EU retaliatory retaliatory tariffs in previous disputes. The suspension of these tariffs, on the other hand, supported recovery and enabled renewed investment on both sides. European companies have reached out and they urge us to keep prioritizing dialogue over retaliation talks before tariffs. This is what they demand. So what is can you just update us? As you already said, the bentlage, um, what is Morozevich doing in Washington and who is he talking to? And just to give us a clear outlook, what what can we expect? I mean, I have this reading points and we've been trying to to, to tell him, uh, and to tell the commission that this is not a business as usual. It's not normal times. You should have been there all together, reaching out to whoever you can meet at the corridors and talk to people and try to, uh, find out and give us a clear picture what is going on and what can we do in this situation? We don't need a trade war. We don't need to impose tariffs. We don't need to impose uncertainties to our companies. If Trump is doing that, he can maybe afford, uh, to to have this on with his businesses. But we cannot afford this uncertainty for our businesses. Now, when we are fighting for a competent, competitive, competitive, uh, in uh, in in, in in our way of dealing with the businesses inside the European Union. So I would just like to have a clear picture on what is doing in Washington at this moment and what can we expect from this trip. Thank you.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “Thank you, Madam President. Dear Commissioner, the other day I criticized you for us, the trade deal and the trade war that we are entering. Now, I must say, it is not easy. The job you are doing here. While we were sleeping, the commission was working. That's good. That's a good thing. It's a good point. But we could have received a document as well because we were not sleeping. We were waiting as well to listen and to discuss these issues on how to improve European competitiveness, how to improve European defence, how to improve European security, and how what are you going to deliver to us? I mean, Obviously in September. But while we are sleeping, the Trump is working. The Trump administration is working hard and delivering in the first days much more than we are going to receive in the first months. So please, I would just want to underline some of the priorities that I would like to see. The White Paper on the future of European defence should be a guiding roadmap for our security and strengthening of the European pillar of NATO, and should and must renew the security cooperation with our transatlantic allies and the UK. We must also deepen our ties with partners in the southern neighbourhood, as the protection of their borders that we never really cared about is the key to preserve our security as well. The second subject I would like to point is a new pact for the Mediterranean that will build a comprehensive partnership based on areas of mutual interest and nothing else and nothing more. No financing NGOs that they will live in from salon politics. And however, the most important topic of the commission work is the strengthening of our competitiveness. The last one is the I, the First Amendment of the US Constitution that guarantees freedom of speech also is reflected in EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. But freedom of expression does not come without accountability for what is being said. Therefore, I call on the end of anonymity behind the screen.”
  EU-US relations
• “Mr. president. Commissioner, global overcapacity is expected to reach 721 million tons by 2027. When we speak about European steel, we speak about 300 000 jobs across Europe. But we also need precision and proportionality. Not all trading partners contribute to global overcapacity in the same way. We must pay particular attention to candidate countries that are progressively integrated into European market and aligning with the EU acquis. Moreover, countries such as Switzerland, our fourth trading partner and we should not upset these people so much now are deeply integrated into European supply chains and are not the source of these distortions. We should therefore be careful not to create unintended consequences that could complicate the ratification of the negotiated EU Switzerland agreement, which is now entering into a very sensitive phase. We must remain firm in defending European industry, particularly in strategic sectors such as steel, while also preserving strong partnerships with reliable and like minded partners. Thank you very much.”
  EU-Switzerland relations
• “20:55 – 17:22:58): Alright thank you very much I'm also a member of the board but not the of executive board so I don't see the projects that you are approving and I would rely that my colleagues in different political groups can you just please be quiet no but I would I would just for the record ask once again that the geographical distribution in Bosnia Herzegovina and taking into account the interest of three constituent people in supporting media the diversity is being taken into account and it's not it's still not many times I I ask these questions and I'm doing it again in this report you put different cantons in Bosnia and Herzegovina that they have issues what different cantons I mean it is important what are you supporting it is important where you're pushing your projects it is important geographical distribution and I will ask this question in our board meeting in these open meetings and I will criticize you as long as I as as as you don't give me the right answers who are you supporting there this is very important fact and please do colleagues you know we are promoting European Endowment for Democracy and European Endowment for Democracy should promote above everything European agenda I don't see this here you know reform and growth how it happened it's not by accident this is what we I want to see in this in this reports that Armani goes to this promoting the the main issues that these countries will bring them to a real democracy and European future so I'm not very happy still and Mister Pomelanovsky you're a really nice guy but I think that there's a lot of room for improvement. Thank you very much.”
  EU relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina
• “Mr. president, Commissioner, recent developments have once again highlighted the high cost of energy dependence. In such a sensitive moment, it is particularly perilous to undermine those partners have who have proven to be stable, reliable, and fully aligned with our strategic objectives. At a time like this, we must not disadvantage the pendulum, the partners from the EU candidate countries and we should support them, not hold them back. Take, for example Elektroprivreda Herzeg-Bosnia. This company generates electricity exclusively from renewable sources, cooperates closely with EU member states, and has consistently been secure and predictable supplier in our immediate neighbourhood. Yet, under the current design of Cbam, it is being penalised due to the use of national default emission factors and the Commission does not have any idea or any way to communicate with them in order to facilitate their export of energy. At a time when we need trusted partners more than ever. We should not weaken those who are already delivering on decarbonisation and contributing to our energy security. And simultaneously, we must consider the broader strategic picture. Yesterday. Dubrovnik at the summit of the Three Seas initiative. We witnessed concrete progress where multi-billion investments are being agreed with our consistently responsible transatlantic partners. New agreement with the United States were signed to strengthen energy infrastructure, deepen connectivity, and reinforce cooperation with transatlantic partners. This is the direction we need to pursue projects such as Southern Gas Interconnection, enhanced diversification, reduce vulnerabilities and anchor candidate countries more firmly with the European energy space and together with our only reliable partner, transatlantic partners. And please, Mr. Commissioner, get this deal done.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• “I thank you very much, David, and as you rightly said, these small states that lived throughout the centuries with together with their history and specificities are the perfect example on how, in the European Union we should preserve, we should preserve this and also to our own benefit. They always allied with us. They always aligned with our foreign and security policy, especially in these historical moments and in this geopolitical moments. And thank you for mentioning as well, that the smallness and the lack of administrative capacities can be sometimes a impediment as well. Um, for, for, for, for their own when, when they are encountering our huge, huge administration. So, um, I would like to thank, uh, shadow rapporteurs and the rapporteur from econ on the understanding. And I'm looking forward to, to, to the amendments to my report. And I'm looking forward also that we pass this report, uh, through, uh, through the parliament, uh, to the plenary session, uh, with only parliamentary consent, so that we can help, um, to enjoy this, uh, agreement as fully as possible. Thank you very much.”
  EU political integration
• “The time when the European Union is openly political approach to enlargement, credibility and consistency are essential if the Union chooses to apply differentiated standards based on geopolitical realities, as is increasingly discussed in the context of Ukraine, then those same principles must be applied fairly and consistently to other candidate countries facing comparable security, political and historical challenges. Bosnia and Herzegovina is clearly one of those countries it carries. The legacy of war, operates within a fragile constitutional and security framework, and remains exposed to persistent internal and external destabilising pressures. While it is largely passing under the radar that Bosnia and Herzegovina is heading into new elections without electoral law. That reflects the spirit of Dayton peace agreement. The European Union is competing to offer its services elsewhere. Even Wolfgang Petrick, who bears responsibility for damage done to Dayton Peace Agreement, recently stated, and I quote, I would say now that the Croats need a third entity. Unquote. The European Union cannot play a critical role in global peace making, while a core peace agreement in its own neighborhood remains politically fragile and unresolved. Thank you very much.”
  EU enlargement
• “Well, thank you very much. Um, I also participated with inter committee trip to Brazil, uh, this summer. And, uh, the fact that the eagerness of Mercosur countries to sign this agreement at a timely moment with European Union should be used, uh, from our side as well, to catch, to catch the the most important, uh, strategical, uh. Cooperation that we can have, not only in the matter of cooperation with the goods and exports, but also with critical raw materials. We know that these countries were neglected. We were not paying enough Attention. And this momentum is crucial for the European Union. So we should really stay away from our particular interests and just to please our constituencies with some sort of, uh, fake, uh, fake news that agricultural sector will be affected without help of European Union. This is geopolitically and strategically the most important, uh, agreement also for all of those who are protecting our borders from east, from Poland to to the south, Croatia and the other countries. Because without this cooperation, without cooperation with these countries who have these critical raw materials, we are going to be suffering quite a lot in the times to come.”
  Trade relations with Mercosur
• “I thank you very much. Um, dear Mr. Zannino. Can you explain to us on the visibility, uh, aspect that this pact is having and that is new in Mediterranean? Um, how will you explain, uh, to the countries concerned how much we are giving and how much we are engaged? And do you have enough support? We just voted the budget, um, in order to help you, to help you at least to survive and to give some visibility better visibility in in these areas. And what about changing as well? Approach. In my report on preventive diplomacy, I asked that the EU delegations should be filled with those who don't have, you know, historical issues with these countries. But to start changing the approach, maybe, um, in our foreign policy aspect, is there are you treating any any of these, um, especially in the areas where we are not very much welcomed? Thank you.”
  EU relations with the Southern Neighbourhood
• “For many years we have dealt and voted for resolutions against Iranian oppressive regimes. And you all supported it. And just to those of you who are quoting wrongly, Albert Camus. He said, I believe in justice, but I will defend my mother before the justice. So the terrorism cannot be defended, especially the one that killed their youth in thousands, for months. The youth that wanted to live in freedom and democracy, and the recent attacks carried out by Iran and Iran backed Hezbollah, once again show us why this regime represents a serious threat to regional and international security. For decades, the Iranian regime has oppressed its own people, violently suppressing protests and treating its citizens as enemies rather than partners in shaping their country's future. This repression at home goes hand in hand with destabilizing behavior abroad. Iran's continuing support for Hezbollah and other armed groups fuels tension and spreads instability in an already extremely fragile region marked by rising extremism and multiple overlapping conflicts. The attacks, targeting bases in Cyprus and attacks directed at territory of an EU member states are unacceptable, unacceptable and just to end, I mean, fuel prices cannot be the reason that we should turn a blind eye on what is happening there. The terrorism should stop and the menace for European citizens is greater than the increase in the prices of fuel. And I welcome the proposal by the Commission President that member States should consider their energy policy. And the same way that the Croatian government has done, and to help their citizens to cope with this situation until we finally get down this terrible regime. Thank you.”
  EU-Iran relations
• “President, dear colleagues, war begins in the minds of the people, and it's in their minds that peace is also created. For decades, we relied heavily on American partners, and we still do for our defence and defence. Our trade routes, at least in the Red sea, but with unjustified imposition of tariffs, it has become clear we must take matters into our own hands and strengthen our competitiveness. We need to simplify and we need to work and to attract investments. We now have a 90 day tariff pause. This is not a time to wait. It's a window of opportunity, a chance to negotiate the best possible outcome for both sides of the Atlantic, an outcome that allows business to thrive to support millions of jobs, an outcome that strengthens, not harms, our economies, one that reinforces the largest trading partnership in the world in an era of free trade and the rules based global order. There is no room for protectionism. Protectionism comes at a cost, a cost that must not be borne by any single industry or country alone. A change in US administration should not mean a change in the fundamental strength of our transatlantic relationship. One thing must remain clear the United States has always been and will remain our strongest partner ally, not one party regime or autocracies. The European Union must continue with the calm logic that has made us the strongest single market in the world, and the logic that allows small fish to survive in turbulent waters where large fish prey. Thank you.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “33:30 – 15:34:34): Right, so dear Commissioner, at this moment of time it appears that you are the only one who is talking to Americans from the Commission point of view. Maybe you can help us to bridge this vacuum because we need the Americans in crisis strategic areas such as security for Ukraine and also rebuilding the peace in different zones. So what is your feeling of this lack of right interlocutor on the European side at the moment? And I mean fourteen countries of member states have sent their representatives, be it ambassador or minister. It's the same. I was ambassador so ambassador represents the state. So is this the vision, complete division in European Union among those who want to keep these transatlantic relations going and those who don't, who want some other way? Can you explain us how do you work under these strange circumstances? Thank you.”
  EU-US relations
• “I see, Mr. President, the Commissioner we are here to take on to talk about Eu-us trade. The negotiations with the US are taking shape and the positive framework agreement by the deadline set by our transatlantic partners is expected from you, dear Commissioner. Although we are diversifying our trade with our like minded partners, we must not forget that the deal with us would bring certainty for our businesses, which are losing employment and trade opportunities every day while caught in this vacuum. We were approached by the US that while they were providing US security, we engaged in business. Today's geopolitical uncertainty led us to commit difficult decisions and invest in our own security and strengthening the EU pillar of NATO. Of course, we must extend our hand to all democracy around the world, seeking closer ties with our single market and aiming to diversify and standing as an alternative to regimes that do not offer the same level playing field in trade as we do. We support you, the Commission, in your negotiations and your efforts in preventing trade diplomacy to avoid any further tensions between us. Because 16 million jobs on both sides of the Atlantic cannot afford to suffer any longer. We also await for conclusion and the approval process of this agreement of our Parliament. And let us make this deal between outcome and the foundation, not only of the not only for beautiful trade, but also a long, beautiful friendship. We deeply need this in this geopolitical uncertainty. Thank you.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “I thank you very much. I'm sorry I was delayed for the beginning because we had a vote in A15 forest in the first committee. Why? I'm saying this is just to put things into perspective. Maybe, um, the yesterday's statement from Ursula von der Leyen, uh, that the European Commission is not ready to change anything, uh, and to accommodate, uh, the approach that the American, uh, partners are having shows us that, uh, we are still at the same, uh, starting point of these negotiations, uh, that we were before and after our visit to Washington. I might say that the European Union has not understood anything in this geopolitical, volatile world. I will just quote the, the, um, the statement by, uh, Chancellor Mert. Why am I saying this? Um, because we expect at least some tete a tete, uh, uh, in very short time. Otherwise we are just going into disaster. And I would not rely on, uh, making agreements with some other countries as an option. As the option be. So for me, I would like to have a clear answer. When is also on the line going as as a person who is, uh, representing European Union to, to Washington and to cut a deal because we don't have a time at this point, uh, of geopolitical upheaval, and we don't have any alternatives, uh, for American Security Shield. So I don't know if the commission does understand anything. Uh, what is going on? It's not, you know, times as usual. These are the new geopolitical Called sensitive times. And we are. We don't need any more. So please, I would just like to ask why. Commission has not approach to this seriously in the start, as we were as well warned in Washington that you were the last to come there and then is the high level, highest level meeting going to take place in order to bring us back the message? Uh, what are we going to do in order to make the deal? Thank you.”
  Relations with NATO
• “Thank you very much. Um, colleagues, before our eyes, a new world order is emerging. Authoritarian leaders are watching closely, waiting for the Western alliance to show weakness. This is why I welcome this trade agreement. As a clear sign of renewed transatlantic cooperation. Something that has been urgently needed as this critical moment. The European Union cannot afford to find itself on the wrong side of history. To those colleagues who reject this agreement and call for harsher measures, I must say such positions are deeply irresponsible. In these challenging times. Yes, this agreement is not perfect, but it provides stability and predictability qualities our workers and businesses desperately needs right now and not demagogic talk. This deal must be seen as the only first step towards building a stable, balanced and fair transatlantic economy. We must strengthen our coordination to develop a unified strategy for ensuring economic security and preventing unfair competition. Only in strong, competitive and prosperous European Union, supported by powerful partners, can continue to safeguard security, stability and our shared values. Thank you.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “The European Union and Switzerland also share a strong commitment to rules based multilateral trading system as highly open and globally integrated economy. Economies. We have a common interest in advancing WTO reform and restoring a fully functioning dispute settlement system. Cooperation in the agri food sector is another important pillar. Switzerland is the EU's fourth largest agrifood partner, and the establishment of Common Food Safety Area will introduce a single rule book and an integrated control system covering the entire food chain. This represents a significant step toward deeper regulatory cooperation and a stronger market integration. At the same time, I have previously expressed regret that Switzerland was not exempted from the EU's steel tariff rate quotas. Unlike other Efta partners, given the high level of market integration and the current geopolitical context, this decision risks complicating the ratification debate that you just mentioned in Switzerland and may provide provide arguments to those seeking to block the agreement. Ratification will soon enter a sensitive political phase in Switzerland, including a referendum. For this reason, it is essential that this parliament sends a clear sign of openness, stability and partnership. Last month, the council gave its green light to the signature of a broad package agreement and on 2nd of March, president von der Leyen, president Guy Parmelin, signed the package of agreements. Additionally, the request for consent was referred to the parliament on March 10th and we will have opinion the Afet recommendation. I'm looking forward to our constructive work. Thank you very much.”
  EU-Switzerland relations
• “Thank you, Madam President. The Commissioner Europe stands at a crossroad, a crossroad of security, trade and growing global threats. But above all, our economy is at a crossroad. To survive or to thrive. Smes represent 99.8% of all active businesses in Europe, employing nearly 90 million people. At today's volatile times, we cannot afford for our businesses and industries to be the ones to fall behind, suffocated by excessive regulation from the automotive and energy industries to steel and aluminium. We cannot allow them to be held back by an unbalanced green policies and red tape. The omnibus package is a final call is a final call that European for Europe to introduce a simpler rules, stronger investments and unlock potential to boost our competitiveness alongside with increased defense spending. The only way forward is to create a more favourable business business environment. The €6 billion that we can cut in annual administrative Cost must be reinvested in our innovation, research and development. The history will not forgive us if we do not do this step now. Thank you.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• “Indeed, the the close relations between the EU and Andorra and San Marino extend to subjects of common interests such as security, migration and energy. In the framework of the European political community to which Andorra and San Marino are members. Among these subjects of common interest, it is crucial to emphasize the need for close cooperation in the area of public health, as underlined during the Covid 19 pandemic, where Andorra and San Marino Participated in joint procurement agreements and were granted access to EU Digital Covid certificate. Likewise, in the area of foreign affairs, the UN, Andorra and San Marino closely cooperate at the multilateral level. Andorra and San Marino also aligned with the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy. Given the significance of enhanced partnership with the EU and Andorra and San Marino, it is essential to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy with these states. In this regard, the delegation for Northern Cooperation and Relations with Switzerland and Norway, and to the EU, Iceland Joint Parliamentary Committee and the European Economic Area Joint Parliamentary Committee is most suited to represent the EU in the Parliamentary Association Committee. To conclude, even though Monaco is eventually not part of the agreement, the EU should remain ready to continue negotiations with Monaco to conclude an association agreement in the future once all steps and conditions are met. Giving the Monaco remains a key partner for the EU. Thank you.”
  EU enlargement
• “Right. Thank you very much, chairman. Thank you, Director general. Mr. Kaufmann and I have a specific question. It's regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina. This morning I had a quite a long conversation with Vice Minister who is here of foreign affairs, and he said that there is ambiguity with Bosnia and Herzegovina as opposed to Ukraine and Moldova. They are not having inter-governmental conference. They are not announced their screening program yet. They don't have any idea about this. And considering the geopolitical situation, sensitivity in the region, I think it's quite unusual That there's so much ambiguity. So can you tell me the exact date when we are getting this screening and when we are having the date for intergovernmental conference? And I hope that this will not be connected to Reform and Growth Plan, which is completely separate program, as you know, that I did that on behalf of Foreign Affairs Committee for my group as a shadow. So I don't think that this subject should be linked. And also the hope, hopefully we will have some reflection from European Parliament's resolutions in this screening document. Thank you.”
  EU enlargement
• “Yeah. Phil and Danke dear. Um, Bernhard Langer, our chairman. Um, madam, um, I welcome this deal. Um, as a sign of renewed transatlantic cooperation and as a foundation for more predictable and stable trade relations. Our businesses need long term stability and certainty to plan, invest and grow. Uh, this is on a positive note, especially when we are seeing what is going on in Shanghai at the moment and that new global order may be replied to. The question is already being, uh, outlined when one all those who have not made a deal are getting together and, uh, we don't want to see Europe in that company. We want to see Europe in transatlantic relations. We want to see Europe doing a business with transatlantic friends. But also we need some sort of certainty and transparency from the part of the Commission on the further procedures for what is now left to us. And how are you going to convince member States? Um, and how are you going to convince different groups in this parliament on the necessities? Uh, and on the, um, on the procedures that commission now should, um, should request from the Parliament. So can you give us some clarity what commission intends to do in the in the next months in this fine tuning? Um, what do we, uh, what is the state of play? Uh, and the situation on having support from member states after this deal at the present moment.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “Sir. Mr. president, dear colleagues, the European Union stands at one of the most challenging geopolitical and economic crossroads in its recent history. China now controls around 60% of global production and 90% of refining capacity for key materials. Its growing use of export controls is a stark reminder that trade can be weaponised, and that our dependence on malign actors leaves us vulnerable. This is why the EU must invest in its own strategic capabilities. I welcome the launch of resource EU and increased funding for developing secure, sustainable European supply chain. But this alone is not enough. We must de-risk from China, strengthen cooperation with like minded partners and build resilient strategic alliances in Indo-Pacific, Asia and Latin America and together with our transatlantic partners, we must confront unfair trade practices that are harming our businesses, our industries and our workers. And to those who advocate distancing ourselves from the United States, today's situation is clear. Lesson relying on China puts at risk our supply chains, our jobs and our economic security. Europe must lead by example by upholding WTO rules.”
  EU-China relations
• “Thank you. Um, so I would like to underline the connectivity dimension of EU India summit, in particular the India middle East, Europe economic corridor. Croatia is ready to play a concrete role in this corridor. India's vision foresees the European European end point in the ports of the northern Adriatic, Rijeka, Koper and Trieste. Croatia has made substantial investment in expanding and modernising the port of Rijeka. The presence of Maersk already confirms its operational readiness and capacity to scale up. There is also interest from other major global logistics actors. The northern Adriatic represents one of the shortest and most most efficient maritime routes into Central Europe. Strengthening this axis would enhance supply chain resilience, diversification and Europe's strategic connectivity within the Pacific. In the context of Croatia Presidency of Three Seas initiatives and its engagement with Med nine, this corridor has clear added value for the EU as a whole. I believe that the European Union should actively support development of northern Adriatic. Pillar of Im. Including through global gateway and coordinated infrastructure investment. But and this should be this should be strategically backed by the EU level. And also yesterday we have adopted a Ocean Diplomacy Initiative report. I think that what we have discussed on the in the Pacific and on India and cooperation in the maritime sphere and the fight against illegal fishing, it should be it should also take points from from the report that was adopted yesterday into account in your negotiations. Further negotiations. Thank you.”
  EU transport infrastructure integration
• “Thank you very much. And I will be fast because I have to go to office on geopolitical dialogue. Thank you. Dear Ben, and congratulate once again that we have defended the Parliament's mandate. And quite realistically, after months of demanding negotiations, and we have reached the point of adopting an agreement that marks an important step forward. I would like to thank all the colleagues and also Commissioner Shevchuk and Cypriot presidency for their cooperation and commitment throughout this process, because we have reached quite a realistic agreement. We achieved balanced text, meaningful safeguards and assured parliamentary oversight and involvement. The commission now has a strong mandate and necessary tools to continue negotiating with greater ambitions. We must build on this agreement and pursue balanced solutions on the outstanding issues, particularly steel and aluminium, while protecting European industry from unnecessary costs and addressing the challenge of unfair global overcapacity. Our task today is to adopt this agreement and send a clear signal that Europe can deliver. The next step is to ensure that the Commission uses this momentum to secure even stronger outcome for European businesses, workers and industry. And I would like to take into account all the goodwill that we had throughout all this process, and also to bear in mind that millions of jobs in European Union are at stake. And not only us, all these workers, their families and people in industry. They are waiting for us. So, dear colleagues, you know, just forget about politicizing. Let it done. And please, I, I call and urge on all of you in plenary session to vote overwhelmingly and to give commission tool to fight for ever stronger and preferable position that we should have with this strongest transatlantic relations that we realistically have at this moment. Because, you know, regardless of all the philosophy, we are not the ones who are executive power. We have to pressure our executive power to go more ambitious and to continue further, further in negotiating. And we cannot keep this stuck in this House. Thank you very much.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “Thank you, Madam President. Commissioner Kubilius. Europe is facing the most challenging security environment since the end of the Cold War. Russia's war against Ukraine is a part of broader and long term strategy aimed at destabilising Europe and confronting the West. This reality demands a clear shift in how we think and act on European defence. Building a stronger European defence means moving from declarations to real capabilities. Europe remains too dependent on others in key areas. Too fragmented in defence industry and too slow in decision making. At the same time, we are still not sufficiently integrating the hard lessons learned from Ukraine into our own defence planning. Deterrence must be credible. That requires not only defensive resilience, but also the ability to act decisively, including long range and operational capabilities. Defence is not only a military issue, it is about industrial capacity, civil preparedness, resilience of our societies and political leadership. Europe must take greater responsibility within NATO. Strengthen joint procurement. Thank you. Thank you very much.”
  EU competences on defence
• “European. Europe means business. We must also agree and vote through all these trade agreements that we are praising ourselves with. From Mercosur to Norway, Switzerland and many more to come. The situation on our borders are more and more worrisome, and we must be able to protect our trade routes with the same force in order to continue trade with newly acquired partners. No one else will do it for us. Multilateral order is changing in front of our eyes, and we should finally position ourselves with our partners, with whom we share democratic values and clear long term strategic vision with a realistic approach of our strength. To conclude, we should get busy working and stop spending time being dependent on social networks and high tech companies. Maybe that's the way to decrease our trade balance with us in the end. People have elected us to give them conditions to thrive with their families. Let's not waste their time. They will remember us with the jobs that we provide. Not with the quotes and the pictures.”
  Free trade agreements (FTAs)
• “Thank you very much. And thank you, Commissioner, for presenting this very important pact for Mediterranean countries and especially for those who are coming from Mediterranean. So we are celebrating the process of 30th anniversary of Barcelona process. And we know for Union for Mediterranean concept that was being established during the French presidency many years ago in order to revive Mediterranean process. And now we have this pact for Mediterranean. But this pact for Mediterranean does not include the Western Balkan countries that were included in the Union for Mediterranean concept. Do you consider maybe including it? And we know why Barcelona process was stalled because of many disagreements and who was coming at the table. But maybe, maybe this is an opportunity for expansion and for this forum and dialogue that we it is so much needed. So I would I would like to suggest one point, one point for your pact or also that was missed in it and maybe on this resilience and fight against the crisis. I warmly welcome the Cyprus hub for for fighting the fires. But also I you know, this point, that face is towards the Mediterranean on the other side of the of the Is is very crucial for the Western Balkan countries. So I would like to to complete this pact and this process, European process as well with this point. And also, can you tell us about this protection of the cultural heritage, uh, that we are having in the pact, the access to cultural heritage sites? Uh, that's a crucial point that we need reciprocity and access to very important and symbolic cultural heritage site in the areas of the crisis. Uh, can you can you explain to us what is going on with this in Syria and the other areas where we are having this crisis and conflicts?”
  EU relations with the Southern Neighbourhood
• “Thank you. No man is an island, entire of itself. Every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. Sir John Donne, 16 million. Jobs depend on transatlantic economy and on our decisions. Every delay costs us €5 billion annually. Businesses on both sides of the Atlantic are calling for clarity and predictability, not uncertainty and delay beyond all arguments. The facts are clear in 2025, our transatlantic economy reached a record $9.8 trillion. Behind these numbers are real people, workers, entrepreneurs, families. I stand here to defend the European economy, our interests and our jobs. One certainty remains even in more challenging global trade environment. Our economic ties have continued to grow. This resilience proves that transatlantic trade works, and if it works, we should strengthen it, not hold it back in this geopolitical context. The United States is not only our largest trading partner, it is also a key security partner. And it must remain so. Even the democracy with which we seek to diversify our trade relations look to the United States as a key security ally. That remains the foundation of our broader strategic objective. Our history has proven that with us on our side, we defeated the most horrible totalitarian regimes from Nazism and fascism after World War Two to the fall of the Berlin Wall and defeating communism. For some people, the hell is the other people? As Arthur said, but only together we can defeat the enemy, regardless of what face it holds. Now, thank you, colleagues, and I call upon you to do this historic job and to support this trade deal. Thank you.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “Thank you. Um, so I would like to underline the connectivity dimension of EU India summit, in particular the India middle East, Europe economic corridor. Croatia is ready to play a concrete role in this corridor. India's vision foresees the European European end point in the ports of the northern Adriatic, Rijeka, Koper and Trieste. Croatia has made substantial investment in expanding and modernising the port of Rijeka. The presence of Maersk already confirms its operational readiness and capacity to scale up. There is also interest from other major global logistics actors. The northern Adriatic represents one of the shortest and most most efficient maritime routes into Central Europe. Strengthening this axis would enhance supply chain resilience, diversification and Europe's strategic connectivity within the Pacific. In the context of Croatia Presidency of Three Seas initiatives and its engagement with Med nine, this corridor has clear added value for the EU as a whole. I believe that the European Union should actively support development of northern Adriatic. Pillar of Im. Including through global gateway and coordinated infrastructure investment. But and this should be this should be strategically backed by the EU level. And also yesterday we have adopted a Ocean Diplomacy Initiative report. I think that what we have discussed on the in the Pacific and on India and cooperation in the maritime sphere and the fight against illegal fishing, it should be it should also take points from from the report that was adopted yesterday into account in your negotiations. Further negotiations. Thank you.”
  EU transport infrastructure integration
• “Yeah, but I think that as a shadow, EPP has a word first by the author and then at the end, the standing delegation for I mean this case. That's normal.”
  EU political integration
• “Thank you chair. I welcome the political agreement that was reached in June, as it will safeguard the prosperity of the whole region by removing all physical barriers, while at the same time preserving the Schengen Area and the EU single market. The agreement will be mutually beneficial. The agreement has been awaited for a long time, and it will bring about legal certainty to businesses and 15 15,000 workers who cross the border border daily. The agreement will also ensure a level playing field with commitments on taxation, anti-money laundering and transport. But the Eu-uk agreement in respect of Gibraltar must be analysed in broader context of the challenges posed by Brexit and on solutions to address difficulties encountered by workers and businesses operating on both sides of the border. We must examine these types types of agreement, taking into account the benefit it can provide in terms of easing tensions. This aspect was a key in the Windsor framework to preserve a peace in Northern Ireland and the Good Friday Agreement. I would have the question of the joint statement on the negotiations for Eu-uk agreement in respect of Gibraltar states that, uh, that other important areas of the future of Eu-uk agreement include level playing field commitments on state aid, taxation, labour, trade and anti-money laundering. Could you elaborate on the commitments that are considering considered to ensure a level playing field in these in these areas? Thank you.”
  EU-UK relations
• “Thank you, David, and thank you for a very good draft report on the implementation of the Common Foreign Security Policy. This report positively highlights the need for the EU to leverage partnership with like-minded partners. This is all the more crucial given the current context of geopolitical shifts and growing security challenges. My amendments will stress the close ties with the United States of America because they are still the most important partner and the need to uphold the mutually beneficial transatlantic cooperation on all areas ranging from trade to foreign affairs. I will also table amendments on the importance for the EU to commit to the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina because we often forget Bosnia and Herzegovina that still is waiting for the electoral law reform following a monster agreement and in the spirit of the Dayton Paris Peace Agreement based on power sharing. Moreover, there is a need to have greater European presence and visibility in Western Balkans in order to divert foreign malign influences and their hybrid activities. One of my amendments will also focus on the need for a renewed approach to preventive diplomacy as a proactive external policy tool. This renewed approach should build on past experiences to improve our method. The crucial thing is that better understanding among the colleagues and external action staff on local historical, cultural, and religious context in order to adapt your message to the local context is in order to be perceived as a reliable partner for European Union is crucial. At the time, we are forgetting also what is going on with persecuted Christians from, you know, from Africa to Latin America. I would like to congratulate on the adoption of the amendment on the persecution in Nicaragua of the Christians, but we are forgetting what is happening every day in Congo and in Nigeria, and the Christians are being persecuted and killed in masses, and we are never discussing these issues here. So, my focus will be on this subject as well. And finally, on Mercosur, we have to make our partnership with reliable partners and conclude this trade agreement but also to decouple all these countries from the new alliances that are being made in these turbulent times. Thank you very much.”
  EU engagement with Christian communities inside and outside the EU
• “Thank you very much. Um, my question goes to the commission. In the context of enlargement and accession support, I would like to underline the importance of fairness, credibility and equal treatment within the enlargement process. Funds allocated for pre-accession assistance must be subject to the same standards, rules and conditionality for all candidate countries. Any simplification or acceleration of procedures or financing granted to one candidate country should, where appropriate, be equally available to all candidates, including those from the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership. This is essential to preserve a level playing field and maintain trust in the enlargement policy. At the same time, I would like to address the implications of the proposed regulation on global Europe, which would merge several key instruments including Global Europe, IP3, the Humanitarian Aid instrument, the facilities for Moldova and the Western Balkans, as well as the Ukraine facility. While institutional and budgetary streamlining can bring added value, it is crucial that such consolidation does not lead de facto to reduction of financial resources dedicated to pre-accession assistance. On the contrary, any simplification should strengthen the effectiveness, predictability and political visibility of these instruments. In this context, I would like to ask the Commission how will it ensure that consolidation of these instruments under Global Europe does not disadvantage candidate countries, in particular those in Western Balkan, and pre-accession assistance remains adequately predictable and subject. Sorry, I was rapporteur. I mean, I'm not, you know, this. I have to finish the sentence and subject to the same rules and conditionality across all candidate countries. Thank you very much for your respect.”
  EU enlargement
• “Thank you. Chair. Um, Commissioner, the European Commission has recognised our long standing request to hear the voice of those who have lived with the sea and from the sea, just like Croatian fishermen. Almost 70,000km of coast and 40% of population living within the 70km from the sea means that for Croatia, the question of oceans is important. We employ in our sea related industries, uh, millions of people, and also contributes with the millions of euros to the European Community. I welcome the priority given to small fisheries in the Mediterranean. Our fishermen, uh, have, uh, hold the second place in terms of landings. And this shows how important fishing is for Croatia. And this fact must be the foundation for a future regulation on oceans. This will be an instrument to protect further our interests. While our small fishermen are overwhelmed by regulations. Third country fishers land their fish on European tables. But with this regulation, we will secure an equal environment for all and to protect the quality of our food. Local and traditional fisheries are the basis for our survival, for our security and safety, and also for our way of life. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “(18:14:53 – 18:16:21): Thank you, president, commissioner. Global overcapacity is expected to reach 721,000,000 tons by 2027. When we speak about European steel, we speak about 300,000 jobs across Europe. But we also need precision and proportionality. Not all trading partners contribute to global overcapacity the same way. They must pay particular attention to candidate countries that are progressively integrated into European market and aligning with the EU or Kiev. Moreover, countries such as Switzerland, it's our fourth trading partner, and we shouldn't upset these people so much now, are deeply integrated into European supply chains and are not the source of these distortions. We should therefore be careful not to create unintended consequences that could complicate the ratification of the negotiated EU Switzerland agreement, which is now entering into very sensitive phase. We must remain firm in defending European industry, particularly in strategic sectors such as steel, while also preserving strong partnerships with reliable and like minded partners. Thank you very much. Thank you very much, mister Mosoyo. You have the floor. Thank”
  EU-Switzerland relations
• “I thank you very much, chair. I think that we can see, um, quite, um, unrealistic atmosphere in this, uh, in this Parliament regarding this deal. So I would like to ask the commission, um, I would like to ask the commission. Um, how do they intend to secure the support of all of us here? Giving the. Some colleagues are calling for rejection of this deal and even the activation of anti coercion instrument. Has this proposal and statement effectively removed the possibility of anti coercion instrument being triggered. And also um the joint statement for removing car tariffs from 27.5% to Percent to 15%. What if the implementation of the legislative proposal does not materialize? Do colleagues who call for rejecting this agreement realize that they would weaken the backbone of our economy? And the final one? Um, as of 1st September, certain product categories should have received zero or near zero tariff from us, with only a MFN tariff tariff applying cork all aircraft and parts generic pharmaceutical and precursors. It was said that this list will be updated in the future. In which direction do you expect this list to be expanded? Finally, I would like to ask you, how do you intend to increase and clarify the communication from the commission side? How much did we gain and how much was dissatisfaction? The American side, uh, with the fact that they could not achieve To to to get on board digital taxes and all the other issues that they they thought that this during these negotiations will be included because it's not clear from the from the members of the Parliament, um, what was at stake at the moment during the negotiations. Thank you.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “I thank you very much, chairman. And, uh, thank you for organizing as well this very timely visit to Secretariat. Switzerland is a like minded, close and strategic partner of the European Union. The comprehensive package of agreements represents an important step forward in modernising our bilateral relationship and ensuring that our cooperation reflects today's economic realities. The package will reduce technical barriers to trade, strengthen conformity assessments, modernize agricultural trade, and support the mobility of persons. Most importantly, it will increase legal certainty for economic operators and deepen economic integration to the benefits of both sides. Although this is not a purely trade agreement, its implications are horizontally important for our economic relationship. Switzerland is the EU's fourth largest trading partner, and more than 50% of Swiss exports go to European Union. In 2024, total trade in goods reached Europe €328.3 billion, with EU exports amounting to €193.4 billion and import 134.9 billion, generating a trade surplus of 58.6 billion for the EU. This demonstrates the depth and mutual importance of our far. Economic ties. The agreement pursues several key objectives modernizing the existing bilateral framework, ensuring a level playing field, including state aid provisions, improving citizens rights and preventing discrimination between workers from different member states, which is particularly important for cross-border services, creating new opportunities for businesses and ensuring balanced framework consistent with our consistent with our agreements with other partners. Switzerland, as a close neighbor and reliable partner, also contributes significantly to the Union's economic, security and strategic resilience at a time of global trade disruptions. Closer and more structured cooperation can strengthen our networked resilience against supply chain disruption and economic coercion.”
  EU-Switzerland relations
• “Oh, I mean, if that's the reason, I agree. But in normal law, the EPP has the right to speak first. Thank you.”
  EU political integration
• “(16:14:08 – 16:14:55): Right, thank you, and I really like your presentation on this plural plural lateral talks and states. Can you please clarify a bit what is Switzerland doing with the like minded partners and which other groups you have knowledge of that they're having these talks in gathering like minded partners on this plural plural side sideline organization that are trying to bridge over the situate present situation with WTO? Thank you.”
  EU-Switzerland relations
• “Thank you very much. In the joint statement signed by the EU and Canada in June, both sides agreed to continue deepening their cooperation to address issues, in particular in the Middle East, notably in Lebanon and Syria, as well as in Africa and Latin America. Since the EU and Canada committed to enhance cooperation dialogue to address key regional issues, could you elaborate how they intend to improve joint efforts to ensure Christians and other religious minorities are protected and included in political processes in Syria? Also, on the question of Canadian participation, although it's very modest, in still in EUFOR ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, what is their plan to react in a case that the mission is not extended in November? We know that there is an ongoing crisis as well with the president of Republika Srpska, so it might be that question of who's gonna apply for extension of EUFOR ALTHEA. And finally, what is this cooperation of Canada with Mexico in order to oppose, I'm I understand, and create a new cooperation and new deals? But how are they cooperating on stopping narco trafficking from Mexican side and from Canadian side into United States of America? That's something of the concerns of Europe as well. Thank you.”
  EU engagement with Christian communities inside and outside the EU
• “(09:55:33 – 09:56:50): Alright. Thank you, chair. No. Just wanted to I just wanted to thank, because I didn't want to interrupt the vote. I just wanted for this very long time that we invested in negotiating GFCM file, I wanted to thank Shada Reporters for their constructive cooperation and excellent joint work throughout this file. This provisional agreement resulting from the inter institutional negotiations is a balanced compromise, ensuring that union fulfills its international obligation while safeguarding the level playing field for its fleet. The transposition of GFCM recommendations into union law must ensure that union operators are not placed at a disadvantage compared to operators from other GFCM contracting parties. At the same time, EU operators should not be burdened beyond obligations agreed internationally within GFCM framework. From our parliament position, preserving this balance and ensuring fair competition were key priorities throughout the negotiations. And I thank you once again to colleagues for constructive cooperation, and I hope that we will be able to support this compromise in a plenary session as well. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Whom to meet when we go to Washington. Otherwise we will go and run for each other's interests and just try to protect our voters and our public and our countries, which is already, um, you know, Trump has already achieved what he promised. He divided us. Biden started it, and Trump has succeeded. And for me, this is a lack of, uh, strategic planning and lack of strategic planning will result in in problems for ourselves here. So can you just give us a give us some roadmap? I mean, not these communications that we are seeing on, uh, that are being published by the Commission at the last moment. We need a clear roadmap when we go to Washington. What should we do? Talking points. Who shall we talk to? This is what the commission should be working, uh, day and night, in order to prepare us. Prepare us? Because we need also us for strategic defense. Hence, I mean Ukraine. We cannot defend without them and we have to get engaged into this. So my my not request, uh, I just begging you, just to understand, you are dividing Europe by not giving response. As soon as somebody tries to divide us and to make countries of the first line and the second, like, uh, like it already happened in Paris yesterday.”
  Relations with NATO