European Parliament Prepares for Pivotal Discussions on Ukraine, Middle East, and Economic Competitiveness at October 2024 Summit

Press Kit from the European Parliament for the European Council Meeting on October 17 and 18, 2024

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Contained within this press kit are various press releases from the European Parliament, highlighting the main topics and concerns that Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) wish to address at the upcoming summit.

Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament, is set to attend the summit as the Parliament's representative. She is scheduled to speak to the leaders of various states or governments at 10:00 AM and will subsequently conduct a press conference following her address.

Date and Time: A press briefing is scheduled for approximately 11:00 AM on October

Location: The press room at the European Council and accessible through the Parliament’s online streaming service or EbS.

During their gathering in Brussels, European Union leaders plan to deliberate on ongoing support for Kyiv in light of Russian hostilities. Additionally, they aim to address the EU's stance on recent developments in the Middle East, where Israeli military actions continue in Gaza and Lebanon, and Iran has fired missiles into Israel. The agenda also includes enhancing the competitiveness of the European economy, informed by Mario Draghi's recent report advocating increased public investment and comprehensive economic reforms. Furthermore, the leaders will explore strategies for managing migration, securing borders, tackling climate change and biodiversity issues, and assessing the situations in Georgia, Moldova, Venezuela, and Sudan.

Hamas launches assaults on Israel / Increasing conflict in the Middle East

At the start of the plenary session held from October 7 to 10 in Strasbourg, President Metsola commemorated the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks in Israel. She reflected on the dreadful events of that day, describing it as a "day that will live in infamy." President Metsola emphasized that there can be no justification for the widespread acts of murder, sexual violence, abduction, and torture that took place a year ago. Since the attacks, only a few victims have been reunited with their families. She assured that the assembly would persist in its efforts to assist in bringing all affected individuals back home.

According to President Metsola, the attacks on October 7 initiated a cycle of warfare, resulting in significant loss of life in Gaza and causing regional instability. She emphasized the importance of remembering those who have died or are missing, affirming that the parliament will persistently demand the immediate freedom of the remaining hostages, firmly advocate for a ceasefire, and actively work towards reducing tensions. Her remarks concluded with a commitment to pursuing genuine, respectful, and lasting peace efforts. Members of the European Parliament observed a moment of silence to honor the innocent victims.

On April 25, members of the European Parliament (MEPs) issued a resolution that harshly criticizes Iran for its drone and missile assault on Israel, urging additional sanctions against the country. The resolution highlights significant worries about the increasing tensions and risks to regional stability. MEPs reaffirm their unwavering backing for the safety of Israel and its people, denouncing the coordinated missile attacks launched by Iran-backed groups, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi rebels in Yemen, targeting the Golan Heights and other Israeli areas before and during Iran's offensive.

Simultaneously, they condemn the assault on Iran's consulate in Damascus, Syria, that took place on April 1 and is largely believed to have been carried out by Israel. The resolution highlights the critical importance of adhering to the principle that diplomatic and consular buildings must remain untouched, as mandated by international law.

Additional resources

Legislative body commemorates the first anniversary of the attacks in Israel that occurred on October

Legislative body denounces Iran's aggression towards Israel and urges a reduction in tensions.

The legislative body urges Israel to fully open Gaza crossings to allow humanitarian assistance.

Conflict between Israel and Hamas: European lawmakers advocate for a lasting ceasefire contingent on two stipulations

Members of the European Parliament denounce the assault by Hamas on Israel and urge for a temporary halt to host

Title: Condemnation of Hamas Attacks, Support for Israel's Defense Rights, and Concerns Over the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

At the European Council meeting, President Metsola emphasized the importance of the EU maintaining consistency and unity.

Prominent Members of the European Parliament denounce assault by Hamas militants on Israel.

Members of the European Parliament to reach

David McALLISTER, a member of the European People's Party from Germany, serves as the head of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a member of the Renew Europe group from Germany, serves as the head of the Security and Defence Subcommittee.

Conflict between Russia and Ukraine

On October 14, members of the European Parliament's Trade Committee gave their approval to the Commission's plan to provide Ukraine with an exceptional Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) loan amounting to as much as €35 billion. This effort is part of the European Union's contribution to the G7 initiative, which aims to aid Ukraine with up to $50 billion (about €45 billion) to meet its immediate financial requirements amid Russia's aggressive war. The repayment of this significant MFA loan, along with loans from other G7 nations, will be sourced from the extraordinary revenues generated by the frozen assets of the Russian Central Bank. This is made possible through the Ukraine Loan Cooperation Mechanism, a new framework introduced under the Commission's proposal. The full parliamentary vote is set to take place in next week's session in Strasbourg.

On September 19, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) passed a resolution urging EU nations to remove existing barriers that prevent Ukraine from utilizing Western weaponry against legitimate military targets within Russia. The document highlights that without lifting these restrictions, Ukraine is unable to fully assert its right to defend itself and remains vulnerable to assaults on its citizens and infrastructure. The Parliament emphasizes that inadequate ammunition supply and limitations on its usage could undermine the progress made thus far and expresses regret that EU countries are reducing their bilateral military assistance to Ukraine. MEPs reaffirm their appeal for member states to honor their March 2023 pledge to provide Ukraine with one million rounds of ammunition and to expedite the transfer of weapons, air defense systems, and ammunition, including TAURUS missiles. They also reiterate their stance that all EU nations and NATO allies should pledge both collectively and individually to provide annual military support to Ukraine amounting to at least 0.25% of their GDP.

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are urging the European Union and its member nations to take proactive steps to garner the widest possible global backing for Ukraine and to find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. They emphasize that any agreement should be grounded in the complete respect of Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Furthermore, MEPs believe that holding Russia accountable for its war crimes and ensuring that Moscow pays reparations, along with other compensatory measures, are crucial elements of any peace solution. To achieve this, MEPs advocate for the EU and its allies to create a robust legal framework to seize Russian state-owned assets that have been frozen by the EU, with the aim of compensating Ukraine for the extensive damage it has endured.

Amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Parliament reaffirmed on July 17 its stance that the European Union should persist in backing Kyiv until a decisive victory is achieved. This resolution marks the first official stance of the newly-elected European Parliament regarding Russia's aggression against Ukraine, reiterating the Members of the European Parliament's (MEPs) unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally acknowledged borders. The resolution urges the EU to uphold and broaden its sanctions against Russia and Belarus, continuously assess their effectiveness and impact, and address the issue of EU-based companies, third parties, and third countries that attempt to bypass these sanctions.

Additional resources

Ukraine: Financial Assistance Proposal Supported by Russian Assets Gains Approval from Trade Committee

Members of the European Parliament assert that Ukraine should have the right to target lawful military sites within Russia.

The recently elected Parliament has reiterated its firm backing for Ukraine.

Members of the European Parliament give the green light to trade aid initiatives for Ukraine, while ensuring safeguards for European

Statement Released by European Union Leaders Marking Two Years Since Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

The European Parliament urges the EU to provide Ukraine with all necessary support to overcome Russia

New EU Regulations to Strengthen Enforcement Against Sanctions Breaches

Members of the European Parliament Urge EU to Provide Active Support to Russia's Democratic Opposition

Yulia Navalnaya: "To overcome Putin, target his corrupt network."

Discussion on March 12, 2024: Planning for the European Council gathering scheduled for March 21 and 22, 2024

Discussion on March 13, 2024: Urgent issues regarding the forced relocation of Ukrainian children to Russia must be addressed.

The parliament is calling for stricter implementation of the European Union's sanctions directed

A lasting financial strategy for Ukraine's requirements

Ways the European Union is Assisting Ukraine

The European Union supports Ukraine

Members of the European Parliament to get

David McALLISTER, representing the European People’s Party from Germany, serves as the head of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a member of the Renew Europe group from Germany, serves as the head of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence.

Karin KARLSBRO (from the Renew group, Sweden) is the designated reporter on the subject of macro-financial aid for Ukraine.

The drive to compete

On September 17, Mario Draghi presented his plan to enhance Europe's competitiveness by fostering greater collaboration in key sectors and significantly investing in common goals.

Mr. Draghi emphasized the necessity for the EU to concentrate on three key priorities: bridging the innovation gap with the US and China, crafting a unified strategy to align decarbonization with enhanced competitiveness, and enhancing Europe's security while lessening its reliance on foreign economic powers. To achieve a competitiveness agenda that meets these needs, annual investments ranging from EUR 750 to 800 billion would be required for projects that have already been approved by the EU. According to Mr. Draghi, a portion of this funding could come from private sector contributions, but public investments would also be essential, including the issuance of new common debt specifically intended to support significant collaborative projects.

During a discussion after Mr. Draghi's speech, numerous Members of the European Parliament concurred with his view that the EU's economic strategy needs an immediate shift. They contended that the EU should prioritize enhancing competition and innovation in pivotal sectors, while also increasing both public and private investments in social, environmental, and digital advancements. A few MEPs advocated for enhanced sovereignty and more liberated markets, emphasizing that climate change initiatives undermine the EU's economic stability. Conversely, some noted that economic growth can coexist with cutting-edge green technologies and social investments, which aid citizens in acquiring new skills.

Additional Resources

Draghi tells Members of the European Parliament: "Europe must decide whether to leave, remain stagnant, or move towards unity."

Members of the European Parliament have approved strategies to enhance the production of Net-Zero technology in Europe.

MEPs give green light to new EU budget regulations

Members of the European Parliament to reach

Borys Budka, a member of the European People's Party from Poland, serves as the Chair of the Committee on Industry, Research and

The Movement of

At a media briefing on October 16 with the Prime Minister of Estonia, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola highlighted the urgency of putting the migration pact into action. She emphasized the need for fairness towards those who qualify for protection, a strict stance against those who do not, and a tough approach towards smugglers and countries like Belarus and Russia that aim to take advantage of vulnerable individuals. Metsola asserted that a united European strategy is essential to maintain the integrity of the Schengen area's open borders.

On October 9, lawmakers in Parliament deliberated on ways to bolster the security of Europe’s outer borders, emphasizing the necessity for a holistic strategy and increased assistance from Frontex. You can view the discussion here. Earlier, on October 7, members of the European Parliament examined the reinstatement of internal border checks in several member nations and its effects on the Schengen Zone. The debate is available to watch here.

On April 10, Members of the European Parliament gave the green light to the revamped Migration and Asylum Pact. This set of ten legislative documents aims to overhaul the European Union's approach to migration and asylum, following negotiations with EU countries. The approved documents are available for viewing here, and the full discussion from the plenary session can be accessed here.

Additional Resources

Members of the European Parliament have given their approval to the newly proposed Migration and

Member of the European Parliament to

Javier Zarzalejos, a member of the European People's Party from Spain, serves as the head of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs.

International Relations: Georgia, Moldova, Venezuela, Sudan

On October 9th, members of the European Parliament expressed concern over Georgia's declining democratic standards, which they claim are stalling the country's path towards EU membership. The resolution criticizes the ruling Georgian Dream party for adopting policies that increasingly resemble authoritarianism, negatively impacting media freedom and LGBTQ+ rights. In addition to altering electoral laws, the party's rising anti-EU sentiment is said to infringe on freedom of expression, suppress media, limit dissenting voices within civil society and non-governmental organizations, and discriminate against marginalized groups. The MEPs stress that unless these laws are repealed, Georgia's progress in strengthening its ties with the EU will remain at a standstill.

In light of the ongoing deterioration of democratic principles in Georgia, the Parliament is calling for a halt on all EU financial support to the Georgian government until the reversal of authoritarian legislation occurs. Members of the European Parliament insist that any forthcoming financial aid to Georgia should be contingent upon stringent criteria.

On October 9, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) passed a resolution that sternly cautions against Russia’s persistent efforts to disrupt Moldova’s path towards closer ties with Europe. The resolution sharply criticizes Russia for intensifying its disruptive activities, meddling, and hybrid tactics as Moldovans prepare to cast their votes in the presidential election and a constitutional referendum on EU integration scheduled for October 20. MEPs emphasize the involvement of various hostile figures, such as Moldovan oligarchs who support Russia and the Russian government-backed RT network, in executing schemes to manipulate voters as well as engaging in cyberattacks and spreading disinformation. They urge the European Union and its member countries to provide Moldova with all necessary support to bolster its institutional defenses and enhance its capacity to counter hybrid threats.

The European Parliament has reiterated its backing for Moldova's journey towards joining the European Union. It is urging the European Commission to incorporate Moldova into the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) and to emphasize financial support for countries aspiring to become EU members in the forthcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) covering 2028 to 2034. With discussions on Moldova's entry into the EU already underway, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are advocating for an expedited review process and the prompt scheduling of the following intergovernmental meetings.

In a resolution passed on September 19, the European Parliament urged the European Union to take all necessary steps to ensure that Edmundo González Urrutia, recognized as the rightful and democratically elected President of Venezuela, assumes office on January 10, 2025. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) expressed strong disapproval and complete rejection of the electoral fraud allegedly orchestrated by the regime-controlled National Electoral Council, which failed to disclose the official election results. They affirmed their recognition of Edmundo González Urrutia as Venezuela's legitimate president and acknowledged María Corina Machado as the leader of the country's democratic movement. Additionally, they condemned the Venezuelan government's decision to issue an arrest warrant for Mr. González.

On October 8th, Members of the European Parliament engaged in a full session discussion regarding the current circumstances in Sudan. The debate is available for viewing through this link.

Additional Resources

The legislative body claims that Georgia's democratic system is in jeopardy.

Headline: Democratic Erosion and Challenges to Political Diversity in Georgia

Legislators criticize Russia's involvement in Moldovan affairs

Proposal: Bolstering Moldova's defenses against Russian meddling as the nation prepares for the forthcoming presidential elections and a constitutional vote on joining the EU.

Venezuelan Leadership Recognized by European Parliament: Edmundo González Named President

Title: Circumstances in Venezuela

Members of the European Parliament to reach

David McAllister, a member of the European People's Party from Germany, serves as the head of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

Nils Ušakovs, a member of the S&D group from Latvia, serves as the head of the Delegation for the EU-Armenia Parliamentary Partnership Committee, the EU-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Cooperation Committee, and the EU-Georgia Parliamentary Association Committee.

Environmental shifts and species diversity

A group of Parliament members is set to participate in the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 18 to November 22, 2024. During a plenary session scheduled for November 13-14, the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will approve a resolution that will serve as the delegation's directive for discussions with global counterparts.

A group of representatives from Parliament is set to attend the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Cali, Colombia, scheduled from October 28 to 31, 2024.

Members of the European Parliament to reach

Lídia Pereira, a member of the European People's Party from Portugal, leads the delegation attending the COP29 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Antonio Decaro, representing the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats from Italy, serves as the head of the Committee focused on Environmental Issues, Public Health, and Food Safety.

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