The coronavirus crisis is the greatest challenge that the EU has faced since its creation. It is an extremely difficult time for the EU Member States, companies and citizens. At the same time, the EU has an opportunity to once again prove its worth and meet its obligations by helping the EU countries recover from the resulting economic crisis.

To achieve that, we need extraordinary and unprecedented economic measures and true, unconditional European solidarity. "This moment calls for strong political leadership and a unanimous act of courage by Europe's political leaders", said Stefano Mallia, vice-president of the Employers' Group. Our citizens and indeed history will judge us by what actions we take or fail to take at this incredibly important moment

Maintaining jobs is an imperative for the whole of the EU. The more companies survive these tough times, the fewer people will lose their jobs and need help from the state. Employers believe that the European instrument for temporary support (SURE) proposed by the European Commission will be key to mitigating the economic and social effects of the coronavirus pandemic, with the specific aim of protecting jobs and people in work. Member States anticipating extraordinary expenditure due to the introduction of short-time work or similar measures would need to be supported by SURE.

A dedicated coronavirus fund would be the EU's war chest to provide the maximum financial support to kickstart the European economy once the health emergency is over. All Member States must have equal access to this fund. It should be aimed firstly at preventing businesses from going into bankruptcy and then at helping European companies and the self-employed to bounce back in the shortest time possible.

While Member States do their best to fight the devastating consequences of the spread of coronavirus, these actions should not limit the free flow of goods. Protecting the single market is of the utmost importance; we must keep it fully operational and running smoothly. As well as safeguarding the health of their citizens, the Members States must give particular attention to establishing green corridors that allow goods to flow freely through the Union. Once the emergency is over, reviving the single market will have to be a cornerstone of Europe's recovery. (lj)