On Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 June, the Member States’ Ambassadors to the European Union (Coreper) worked on the strategic agenda for the next 5 years - which the European Council will adopt next week - strengthening some of the references to the rule of law, to deepening the euro area and to social cohesion (see EUROPE 12271/2).
The draft text that will be sent to EU leaders has almost been completed. According to two sources consulted by EUROPE on Friday 14 June, the only real issue still to be resolved is the EU Twenty-Seven’s level of ambition in tackling climate change.
EUROPE has seen a copy of the first of the two drafts discussed on Thursday and, at this stage, it does not include the target to be climate neutral by 2050 that has been demanded by eight Member States (Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden) (see EUROPE 12250/2).
On Thursday, Germany is reported to have confirmed that it was ready to move in that direction.
The strategic agenda should therefore address the climate issue by presenting it as both a challenge and an economic opportunity, as long as the ecological transition does not cause anyone to be left behind.
The strategic agenda develops the four main themes of the first draft presented to European leaders in Sibiu, i.e: - protecting European citizens and civil liberties; - modernising the EU's economic model; - building a fairer and more sustainable future; - promoting Europe's interests in the world (see EUROPE 12251/1, 12247/1).
On the subject of protecting citizens and civil liberties, the reference to respect for the rule of law has been placed as a header to highlight its importance. The migration challenge is also addressed, with clearer language on the need to reach "an agreement" on an effective European migration and asylum policy, but without mentioning the principle of solidarity between Member States when accepting migrants.
With respect to economic matters, the reference to the euro area and completion of the banking union has been placed in a more prominent position, stressing the need for the single currency to work for citizens, remain sustainable and see its international role strengthened.
The language dealing with the urgent need to develop an industrial strategy that is adapted to the challenges that lie ahead and with deepening the digital single market remains broadly unchanged. The draft text even refers to the importance of Europe achieving "digital sovereignty", particularly by stimulating research and innovation and developing human capabilities. (Original version in French by Mathieu Bion)