Brussels: Summit dedicated to the latest developments in the Middle East and support for Ukraine
Articol de Bogdan Isopescu, 26 Octombrie 2023, 23:26
The heads of state and government from the European Union met in Brussels for a summit dedicated to the latest developments in the Middle East and support for Ukraine.
Particular attention is paid to the proposals to amend the Union's multiannual budget, valid until 2027.
European leaders are trying to find a unitary and unanimously accepted formula for a short-term solution to the situation in Gaza.
While the United Nations is calling for a cease-fire, the heads of state and government of the Union should agree on requesting a pause in this conflict, so that humanitarian aid can enter Gaza, a formula also put forward by the United States.
Before the Council, Ursula von der Leyen stated that the European Union does not forget the war in Ukraine and that, on the other hand, just like the war in Ukraine, the conflict between Israel and Hamas has multiple consequences on the border and inside the community space.
All these problems require a united response, diplomacy, but also money, hence the urgency to conclude the negotiations for the multiannual financial framework.
Ursula von der Leyen: Russia's war in Ukraine is just as intense. Hamas launched the terrorist attack in Israel and now, the consequences are falling on the Palestinian people, with the risk of destabilizing the region. At the same time, migrants are forced to seek a better life than war and are coming in greater numbers to Europe. Faced with these problems, the Union must act united and determined. The European Commission, so far, has acted accordingly. We supported Ukraine, provided humanitarian aid to Gaza and worked with all Member States to manage migration. But all this needs funding and that is why I have proposed amending the Union budget.
Another discussion also concerns the expansion of the European Union, and here there are member states, including Romania, which request the start of negotiations with Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova this year.
Translated by: Radu Matei
