Calteux stressed the importance of EU enlargement, stating, “you ask me whether enlargement of the European Union is realistic, and I ask myself whether we can afford not to enlarge Europe.” She referenced President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent State of the Union address, in which von der Leyen underscored the imperative of “completing” Europe.
Calteux stressed the geopolitical and strategic significance of integrating new countries into the EU, as failing to do so could lead these nations to seek alternative alliances, notably with Russia. She also highlighted the security aspect of the issue and called for active support to help these states reform their economies, emphasising the prerequisites of stable institutions and the rule of law.
The European Commission is currently engaged in discussions with Moldova, which holds candidate status, and several Western Balkan countries, including Serbia, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Northern Macedonia, and Montenegro.
Regarding President von der Leyen’s State of the Union address, Calteux addressed the question of whether it was merely campaign rhetoric. She explained that von der Leyen aimed to deliver a “rallying” speech, highlighting the importance of cohesion with only 300 days remaining until the next European elections. Calteux noted that a significant portion of the Commission’s proposals, approximately 63%, has already been adopted, while the remainder is in the process. This includes the pact on migration and asylum, although this was not a major topic in Wednesday’s State of the Union address.
Von der Leyen has not announced whether she is standing as a candidate for her own succession, although the European Commission’s representative in Luxembourg hopes she does, “for the sake of continuity.”
Calteux also highlighted the EU’s more assertive stance towards global relations, referencing von der Leyen’s announcement of an investigation into Chinese subsidies for electric vehicles as “a clear signal to China.” She noted that the EU has shifted towards a more assertive posture in international affairs and recognises the reality of geo-ecological rivalry, extending not only to China but also to the United States. Calteux stressed the need for the EU to “give itself the means to be able to cooperate with these powers.”
Finally, Calteux acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by social and climate crises and commended the EU’s progress in addressing them, despite the backdrop of the Covid-19 crisis, the war in Ukraine, and the energy crisis.
