Jean-Claude Juncker emphasised the importance of young people engaging in discussions about war and peace. He underscored the need to counteract Cold War rhetoric and prevent the regression of civilisation, particularly in light of the ongoing Russian war of aggression in Ukraine.
Juncker expressed support for providing Ukraine with additional weapons, because he believes it to be impossible to hold peace talks with President Putin.
Regarding the conflict in the Middle East, Juncker observed the “resurgence of old resentments” against Europeans and noted the EU’s historical lack of influence in the region, condemning the pervasive hatred as “reprehensible.”
In terms of recent appointments, Juncker expressed approval for Nicolas Mackel’s appointment as Head of the Permanent Representation in Brussels and Jean-Paul Olinger’s as the new Director of the Tax Administration. He contrasted these appointments with others he deemed “abnormal” over the past two decades.
Juncker also emphasised that the new government of the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) and the Democratic Party (DP) is not a “government of employers.” Such statements by the Independent Luxembourg Trade Union Confederation (OGBL) and the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP) were “simply not true,” Juncker said.
Juncker criticised the notion of perpetual economic growth, advocating instead for addressing its consequences through measures decided by bodies such as the Economic and Social Council.
He acknowledged progress in delaying the pension crisis but stressed the importance of implementing preventative measures to sustain the current system.
On the issue of the begging ban, Juncker acknowledged concerns about organised begging but highlighted the need for legal clarity and improvements in criminal law to address associated challenges effectively.
In the Meisch affair, the former CSV Prime Minister believes the version of events presented by the current Minister of Education and Minister of Housing. Nevertheless, Juncker stressed that the matter “must be fully and comprehensively cleared up.”
The fact that the lead candidate of the European Social Democrats, Nicolas Schmit, is not taking part in the elections in Luxembourg does not bother the former Commission President, as Schmit is seeking a position in the Commission and not in the European Parliament. Commissioner-designate Christophe Hansen casted doubt on Schmit’s prospects and Juncker, who is in favour of transnational lists to ensure representation for smaller EU member states, stated that could understand Hansen’s perspective.
In advice directed at Ursula von der Leyen, the lead candidate of the European People’s Party, Juncker urges her “not to move to the right and stay away from the far right.”
