European Parliament’s Key Priorities for October 2024 Summit: Addressing Global Conflicts, Economic Competitiveness, and Migration Challenges

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

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Included in this press kit is a collection of press releases from the European Parliament that highlight the key issues and priorities of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) for the discussions scheduled 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 countries at 10:00 AM and will subsequently hold a press briefing following her address.

Event Timing: A press conference is scheduled for approximately 11:00 AM on October

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

During their gathering in Brussels, European Union leaders are set to deliberate on how to sustain support for Kyiv amid ongoing Russian hostilities. They will also address the EU's reaction to recent developments in the Middle East, where Israeli military operations are persisting in Gaza and Lebanon, and Iran has fired missiles at Israel. Additionally, EU heads will examine strategies to enhance the competitiveness of the European economy, in light of Mario Draghi's report, which recommends increased public investment and sweeping economic reforms. Discussions will also cover the management of migration and border security, climate change and biodiversity, as well as the situations unfolding in Georgia, Moldova, Venezuela, and Sudan.

Hamas Launches Attacks on Israel / Rising Tensions in the Middle East

At the beginning of the plenary session held from October 7 to 10 in Strasbourg, President Metsola commemorated the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks that took place in Israel. Reflecting on the dreadful events of that day, which she described as "infamous," President Metsola emphasized that there is no justification for the mass murder, sexual violence, abductions, and torture that happened a year ago. She noted that only a small number of victims have been reunited with their families since then. She assured that "this house" remains committed to doing whatever is necessary to help bring all the victims back to their families.

President Metsola remarked that the attacks on 7 October set off a wave of conflict, destruction, and loss of life in Gaza, contributing to regional instability. She emphasized the importance of remembering everyone who has been lost or abducted, affirming that the Parliament is unwavering in its demands for the immediate release of hostages. Additionally, she stressed the need for a ceasefire and continued efforts to reduce tensions. The President concluded by asserting that the pursuit of genuine, dignified, and lasting peace will persist with determination. Members of the European Parliament observed a minute of silence to honor the innocent lives lost.

In a decision made on April 25, members of the European Parliament firmly denounce the drone and missile assault by Iran on Israeli territory, urging for additional sanctions on Iran. The Parliament expresses deep worry about the increasing tensions and potential threats to the stability of the region. MEPs reaffirm their unwavering backing for the safety of Israel and its population, and they condemn the concurrent rocket attacks executed by Iran's allies, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthi rebels in Yemen, targeting the Golan Heights and Israeli areas both preceding and during the Iranian offensive.

Simultaneously, they condemn the assault on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, which occurred on April 1 and is largely believed to be the work of Israel. The resolution emphasizes the crucial principle that diplomatic and consular buildings are inviolable and should be protected at all times according to international law.

Additional resources

Legislative body commemorates the anniversary of the attacks that occurred on October 7th in

The legislature denounces Iran's strike on Israel and urges for reduced tensions.

The legislature urges Israel to fully open Gaza crossings to allow for the delivery of humanitarian assistance.

EU lawmakers advocate for an enduring ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, contingent on two specific conditions.

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

Statement: The heinous acts of terrorism committed by Hamas against Israel, Israel's entitlement to self-defense according to international and humanitarian laws, and the humanitarian circumstances in Gaza.

President Metsola at the European Council: The European Union needs to stay consistent and unified.

Prominent Members of the European Parliament denounce Hamas's assault on Israel.

Members of the European Parliament to reach

David McALLISTER, (EPP, DE), the head of the Foreign Affairs Committee

Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, representing the Renew party from Germany, serves as the head of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence.

Conflict between Russia and Ukraine

On October 14, members of the European Parliament's Trade Committee gave their approval to a proposal from the European Commission to provide Ukraine with a special Macro-Financial Assistance loan that could reach up to €35 billion. This move is part of the European Union's effort to contribute to the G7's broader plan to offer Ukraine up to $50 billion (around €45 billion) in financial aid to help cover its immediate funding requirements as it contends with Russia's aggressive military actions. The repayment of this substantial MFA loan, along with loans from other G7 nations, will be financed through exceptional income generated from frozen assets of the Russian Central Bank. This will be facilitated by the newly created Ukraine Loan Cooperation Mechanism as outlined in the Commission's proposal. The full Parliament is expected to vote on this matter during its session next week in Strasbourg.

In a resolution passed on September 19, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are urging EU nations to remove existing barriers that prevent Ukraine from deploying Western weaponry against legitimate military targets within Russia. The resolution emphasizes that without lifting these restrictions, Ukraine is unable to fully assert its right to self-defense and remains vulnerable to attacks on its citizens and infrastructure. The Parliament highlights that inadequate ammunition supplies and limitations on their usage could undermine the effectiveness of past efforts, and expresses regret that EU nations are providing less bilateral military support to Ukraine. MEPs once again urge member states to honor their March 2023 pledge to supply Ukraine with one million rounds of ammunition and to speed up the delivery of weapons, air defense systems, and ammunition, including TAURUS missiles. They also reaffirm their stance that all EU countries and NATO allies should both collectively and individually commit to providing annual military aid to Ukraine amounting to at least 0.25% of their GDP.

Members of the European Parliament are urging the European Union and its member countries to actively pursue the widest possible global backing for Ukraine and to work towards identifying a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. They emphasize that any agreement must ensure the complete respect for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Additionally, the MEPs consider it crucial to hold Russia accountable for war crimes and to ensure that Russia provides reparations and other financial payments. To achieve this, they are advocating for the EU and its allies to create a solid legal framework to seize Russian state assets that have been frozen by the EU, as part of a strategy to compensate Ukraine for the extensive damage it has endured.

Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the European Parliament reaffirmed its stance on July 17, emphasizing the necessity of sustained EU support for Kyiv until a successful outcome is achieved. This resolution marks the newly-elected Parliament's initial official declaration regarding Russia's aggressive actions against Ukraine. It reinforces the Members of the European Parliament's (MEPs) unwavering backing for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally accepted borders. The resolution urges the EU to uphold and expand its sanctions against Russia and Belarus, assess their effectiveness and consequences, and actively address the issue of EU-based businesses, third parties, and other nations that bypass these sanctions.

Additional Resources

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

European lawmakers assert that Ukraine should have the capability to target valid military sites within Russia.

Recently elected members of Parliament have reiterated their firm backing for Ukraine.

Members of the European Parliament have given the green light to trade assistance initiatives for Ukraine, ensuring safeguards for farmers

Declaration by the Leaders of European Union Bodies Marking the Second Anniversary of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

The legislature urges the European Union to provide Ukraine with all necessary support to overcome Russia.

EU introduces stricter measures to address breaches of sanctions

Members of the European Parliament urge EU to proactively back Russia's pro-democracy opposition

Yulia Navalnaya: "To overcome Putin, target his group of criminals."

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

Discussion on March 13, 2024: Urgent issues regarding the forced relocation of Ukrainian children to Russia need immediate attention.

The legislature is advocating for stricter implementation of the European Union's sanctions imposed

A sustainable financial plan for Ukraine's future requirements

The ways in which the European Union is aiding

The European Union supports Ukraine.

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, representing the Renew group from Germany, serves as the head of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence.

Karin KARLSBRO, representing the Renew group from Sweden, serves as the lead on the report concerning financial aid to Ukraine.

The Drive to Comp

On September 17th, Mario Draghi presented his plan aimed at enhancing Europe's competitiveness by fostering greater collaboration in key sectors and committing to substantial investments towards common goals.

Mr. Draghi emphasized the importance of the European Union concentrating on three main priorities: bridging the innovation gap with the United States and China, formulating a unified strategy to align decarbonization efforts with enhanced competitiveness, and strengthening Europe's security while reducing reliance on foreign economic powers. To implement an effective competitiveness strategy, an annual budget of EUR 750 to EUR 800 billion would be necessary for projects that have already been approved by the EU. While some of this funding could be sourced from private investors, a portion would also need to come from public investments, potentially through new collective debt issued specifically for financing crucial joint initiatives, according to Mr. Draghi.

During a discussion after Mr. Draghi's speech, numerous Members of the European Parliament concurred with his view that the EU's economic strategy requires immediate revision. They suggested that the EU should emphasize enhancing competition and fostering innovation in vital sectors, while simultaneously boosting both public and private funding towards social, environmental, and digital advancements. Certain MEPs advocated for increased autonomy and more liberalized markets, highlighting that efforts to combat climate change are detrimental to the EU's economic progress. Conversely, some argued that economic expansion can coexist with eco-friendly technological advancements and social investments, which would aid citizens in acquiring new skills.

Additional Resources

Draghi tells European Parliament members: "Europe must decide between departing, stagnation, or coming together"

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

MEPs give green light to new fiscal regulations in the EU

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,

The Movement of

At a press event held on October 16 with the Prime Minister of Estonia, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, emphasized the necessity of putting the migration pact into action. She highlighted the need for fairness towards individuals who qualify for protection, strictness towards those who do not, and a tough stance against human traffickers and countries like Belarus or Russia that aim to take advantage of vulnerable people. Metsola asserted that a unified European strategy is essential to maintain the integrity of the Schengen zone, which operates without internal borders.

On October 9th, lawmakers in Parliament engaged in discussions about bolstering the security measures of Europe's external borders. They emphasized the necessity for a holistic strategy and increased assistance from Frontex. The debate is available for viewing here. Meanwhile, on October 7th, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) deliberated on the reinstatement of internal border checks by several member countries and how this affects the Schengen Area. You can watch this debate here.

On April 10th, Members of the European Parliament gave their approval to the new Migration and Asylum Pact. This set of reforms includes ten legislative documents aimed at overhauling the migration and asylum policies within Europe and was settled in coordination with EU member countries. The approved documents are available for viewing here, and you can watch the plenary discussion here.

Additional Resources

Members of the European Parliament have given their approval to the updated Migration and As

Contact the Member of the European

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: Developments in Georgia, Moldova, Venezuela, and Sudan

In a resolution passed on October 9, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) expressed concerns that the ongoing decline in democratic standards in Georgia is halting the country's progress towards European Union membership. The document emphasizes that the governing party, Georgian Dream, is advancing a more authoritarian approach, particularly affecting media freedom and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. Alongside modifications to the nation’s electoral laws and increasing anti-EU sentiments, MEPs argue these measures infringe on free speech, suppress the media, limit dissenting voices within civil society and non-governmental organizations, and discriminate against marginalized groups. They also underscore that unless these laws are reversed, Georgia's relationship with the EU cannot advance.

Amidst the ongoing deterioration of democratic principles in Georgia, the Parliament has called for a halt to all European Union financial support to the Georgian government until the country reverses its undemocratic legislation. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) insist that any future financial assistance to Georgia should be subject to stringent requirements.

On October 9, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) passed a resolution that sternly cautions against Russia's ongoing efforts to undermine Moldova's alignment with Europe. The document strongly denounces Russia's increasing hostile activities, meddling, and hybrid tactics as Moldova prepares for its presidential election and a constitutional referendum on EU membership scheduled for October 20. MEPs emphasize the involvement of various harmful entities, such as pro-Russian Moldovan oligarchs and the Russian state-funded media outlet RT, in executing voter manipulation schemes, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. They urge the European Union and its member countries to provide Moldova with the necessary support to bolster its institutional capabilities and enhance its defense against hybrid threats.

The European Parliament has reiterated its backing for Moldova's journey toward joining the European Union. It has urged the European Commission to consider Moldova for the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) and to emphasize funding for nations seeking EU membership in the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034. As discussions on Moldova's EU membership are already underway, Members of the European Parliament are advocating for an expedited screening process and the prompt scheduling of the necessary intergovernmental meetings.

In a decision passed on September 19, the European Parliament urged the EU to take all necessary steps to ensure that Edmundo González Urrutia, recognized as Venezuela's lawful and democratically elected President, assumes office on January 10, 2025. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) vehemently criticized and outright rejected the electoral manipulation allegedly orchestrated by the regime-dominated National Electoral Council, which failed to disclose the official election results. They affirmed Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate and democratically chosen president of Venezuela and acknowledged María Corina Machado as the head of the country's democratic forces. Additionally, they condemned the Venezuelan Government for issuing an arrest warrant against Mr. González.

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

Additional Resources

The legislative body warns that the democratic state of Georgia is in jeopardy.

Title: The Decline of Democracy and Challenges to Political Diversity in Georgia

Legislative Body Denounces Russian Involvement in Moldova

Decision: Enhancing Moldova's ability to withstand Russian meddling before the forthcoming presidential elections and a constitutional vote regarding EU membership

Venezuelan Political Landscape: MEPs Acknowledge Edmundo González as Leader

Decision: 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, representing Latvia with the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) group, serves as the head of the Delegation responsible for the EU-Armenia Parliamentary Partnership Committee, the EU-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Cooperation Committee, and the EU-Georgia Parliamentary Association Committee.

Changes in the climate and the

A group of parliamentarians is set to participate in the UN Climate Change Conference, COP29, scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 18 to 22, 2024. Additionally, during the plenary session on November 13-14, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will pass a resolution that will serve as the basis for their discussions with global counterparts.

A delegation from Parliament is set to attend the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16) taking place in Cali, Colombia, from October 28 to 31, 2024.

Members of the European Parliament to reach

Lídia Pereira, representing the European People's Party (EPP) from Portugal, serves as the head of the delegation for the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Antonio Decaro, representing the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in Italy, serves as the head of the Committee focused on Environmental Affairs, Public Health, and Food Security.

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