The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, received on Wednesday 8 July the Presidents of the European Parliament, David Sassoli, the Council of the EU, Angela Merkel, and the European Council, Charles Michel, to discuss the post-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and Next Generation EU.
They analysed the economic forecasts for the coming months, which point to a severe recession, and noted that the crisis will have profound social repercussions throughout the European Union. They reaffirmed their strong commitment to do everything in their power to alleviate these social consequences and help the European economy to rebound quickly.
Participants agreed that reaching a swift agreement on an ambitious European Recovery Plan is the EU’s highest priority for the coming weeks. This will require strong coordination between the EU institutions, at every stage of the process, as well as rapid ratification of key elements, in accordance with the constitutional provisions of each Member State.
The Presidents discussed the timetable for the negotiations and stressed that it would be essential for the Heads of State and Government to reach an agreement at the European Council on 17 and 18 July.
The President of the Commission expressed her intention to reconvene meetings under Article 324 of the Treaty, if necessary, at key stages of the discussions.
Link: https://bit.ly/2Zd3O74 (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)