Carbon neutrality and funds for EU programmes are EP priorities for EU summit

On Tuesday morning, MEPs discussed their priorities for the upcoming December Summit with the Finnish Council Presidency’s Tytti Tuppurainen and Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans. Political group leaders representing a broad majority called for immediate progress on the negotiations for the next long-term EU investment budget (Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027).They highlighted the need for appropriate funding and policies to ensure EU citizens’ economic prosperity and global leadership on climate change, innovation (especially in “green” technology) and just transition policies. Many speakers also warned that any further delay would disrupt EU-funded programmes, which would disproportionately harm citizens, regions, cities, farmers, researchers, students, NGOs and businesses. Read more about Parliament’s position. MEPs highlighted that the European Council discussion on an EU long-term climate strategy and on how to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 will take place only a few days after the 2019 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP25). Stressing that climate change is an absolute priority, MEPs called for immediate, concrete action to be taken. Most speakers commented on the climate neutrality objectives set for 2050, with many urging for even more ambitious targets to be set. Other topics raised include the accession of North Macedonia and Albania, cohesion and agriculture policies, defence and security, migration, global instability, and the protection of European common values, including the rule of law. Opening statements by Tytti Tuppurainen and Frans Timmermans. MEPs debate, first round – to view video replays of statements by specific speakers, click on a name. Closing statements by Tytti Tuppurainen and Frans Timmermans. You can catch up with the full debate here.