European Council President Charles Michel traveled to Bucharest, Romania, to engage in discussions with several European Union country leaders regarding the bloc's strategic agenda for the upcoming five-year period. The meetings, held at the presidential Cotroceni Palace and hosted by Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, aimed to address key goals and challenges facing the EU.
Michel highlighted the significant hurdles the EU has encountered in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, climate and energy crises, and Russia's conflict in Ukraine. Looking ahead, the EU plans to prioritize enhancing security and defense, promoting economic stability and prosperity, considering bloc enlargement, and reinforcing democratic values integral to the EU's foundation.
Emphasizing the need for increased responsibility in addressing security challenges and threats, Michel stressed the importance of investments in this area. Iohannis echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the various crises the EU has navigated, such as energy challenges, climate change impacts, illegal migration, and the conflict in Ukraine.
Despite the formidable challenges ahead, both leaders expressed confidence in the EU's resilience and ability to protect its citizens. Iohannis underscored the importance of upholding European values, the spirit of unity, and safeguarding democracy within member states.
The discussions also included Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, reflecting a collective commitment to addressing shared challenges and advancing the EU's strategic objectives.
