Recovery, strength and a sense of belonging are the three main objectives of the French Presidency, which the EESC shares and supports, as its president Christa Schweng made clear at the January plenary session on 19 January 2022 when addressing the French Secretary of State for European Affairs, Clément Beaune.

"Looking at your priorities - a more sovereign Europe, a new European model for growth and a humane Europe - I am happy to see that many of these priorities are very similar to those of the EESC", said Ms Schweng, highlighting the EESC's commitment and contribution to shaping a resilient, strong, sustainable and inclusive Europe.

Mr Beaune stressed that the French Presidency would help prepare the Europe of tomorrow, with an eye to 2030, laying the groundwork for far-reaching changes on values, investment, youth, culture and health. Special focus would be placed on promoting the values uniting us all but which had weakened in recent years, perhaps because they were seen as a given, such as the rule of law and democratic values. "We want to foster a sense of belonging and champion our values. There will not be a political project without this common European identity beyond the national identities", he said.

With reference to the upcoming conclusion of the Conference on the Future of Europe, Ms Schweng added that "as the house of Europe's organised civil society, we can be your best allies in this sensitive final phase. Ensuring tangible results and transparent follow-up will be crucial. People will need transparency and seeing that the EU is 'walking the talk'. The role of the French Presidency, therefore, will be key for the Conference's success and for giving the EU back to its citizens."

Mr Beaune pledged that the Conference on the Future of Europe would bring about concrete proposals that "it is essential to implement rapidly, because the Conference cannot be an artificial exercise but is meant to prepare the ground for real reform." (mp)