Europäischer Wirtschafts- und Sozialausschuss
In a time of transformations, where traditional forms of political participation are being questioned and new forms are tested here and there, we should be wise enough to be open to change. However, such changes must not compromise the strength of traditional ways of participation, time-tested and continuously adapted, and the in-depth force of institutions.
I am deeply shocked by the attack that killed 11 people in a shooting in the German city of Hanau last night. This is yet another tragedy, whose xenophobic nature, if confirmed, is unacceptable in a fully democratic Europe.
It is with great emotion and compassion for the victims and their families that I express our sincerest condolences and our strong solidarity with the German authorities.
The EESC firmly supports the fight against crime and terrorism and emphasises that progress in fighting terrorism and crime in the EU must be consolidated. There must be effective cooperation and coordination between Member States with regard to law enforcement, intelligence and judicial matters.
I can reassure you that I will do everything I can to contain and strongly stand against any form of hatred. Only together, we can ensure a peaceful and united Europe.
This is not a battle of numbers, but a battle of visions. The vision of the new Commission "A union that Strives for more" and the new Strategic agenda that EU leaders set in Sibiu, reasserted during the European Councils of July and December 2019, must be fulfilled by coherent decisions with the new MFF.
The President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Luca Jahier, will visit Cyprus on 13-14 February 2020, in the framework of the "Peace and Borders in Europe" series.
Seit dem Amtsantritt der neuen Kommission bemühen sich die europäischen Staats- und Regierungschefs intensiver darum,
For weeks, I have been seriously concerned about the news filtering on the preparation of the Extraordinary European Council, which is expected to discuss the Multi-Annual Financial Framework on 20 February. Today EP plenary debate in Strasbourg has fully confirmed my long-standing concerns.
Following my inspirational mission to Ethiopia last June, I felt it was my duty to maintain high expectations after the start of the new Commission, which put EU's commitment to Africa at the top of its priorities.
You will not be here with us, but I know you will be there with us, because there is no other alternative than a strong relationship between the EU and the UK and we at EESC we will do whatever it takes to keep that strong link and bond.
Statement by President Luca Jahier on the situation in the Middle East and Libya
The EESC considers that there is an urgent need for calm and peaceful solutions of all conflicts and sensitive situations worldwide and particularly in the region. We urge for a de-escalation of spiralling violence. The European Union must speak with one voice on all aspects of foreign policy given many crisis unfolding in the immediate EU neighbourhood, including the migration and refugee crisis, are interrelated.
