European leaders are convening in Budapest, Hungary on Nov. 7 to discuss key issues including U.S. support for Ukraine and the avoidance of trade wars. The meeting, which is part of the broader European Political Community (EPC), will involve leaders from both EU and non-EU states like the UK and Switzerland. The focus of the summit is to reaffirm support for Ukraine amidst geopolitical challenges.
Following the EPC summit, nearly 50 European leaders will gather on Friday to address immigration, economic security, and foreign investments. Discussions will center on coordinating controls on exports and technologies to counter economies like China.
European Council chief Charles Michel emphasized the importance of showing strength in engagements with authoritarian regimes, highlighting the implications of U.S. policies towards Russia and China. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen stressed the significance of upholding the rule of law in international relations.
Concerns about a potential trade war were raised by Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, urging proactive measures to influence U.S. policies. The recent collapse of the coalition government in Germany added to the complexities facing Europe, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s actions leading to an early general election.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasized the need for a strong Germany to bolster Europe’s position on the global stage. Von der Leyen underscored the importance of European unity in facing upcoming challenges.
The EU leaders will also discuss relations with the United States and the situation in Georgia during their evening session on Thursday. The ongoing efforts to maintain a positive EU-U.S. relationship and address developments in Georgia will be key topics of discussion.
On Friday, the leaders will delve into EU competitiveness, with a presentation by former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi on strategies to enhance economic strength amidst global competition. The debate will include discussions on necessary investments and funding sources, with some EU countries expressing reservations about utilizing joint EU assets.
Despite the challenges, many European leaders have extended congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump and expressed readiness to collaborate. The summit is being hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban as Hungary currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Orban’s social media post on Nov. 6 hailed Trump’s election victory as a significant win for the world, reflecting the sentiments of many European leaders. The summit aims to address critical issues facing Europe and strengthen transatlantic partnerships for a more resilient future.
Reuters contributed to this report.
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