Statement by President von der Leyen at the joint press conference with President Metsola following the vote in the European Parliament plenary

On the eve of a crucial European summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a key speech addressing the continent’s pressing challenges and its future direction. Addressing an audience of policymakers, diplomats and industry leaders, von der Leyen outlined the European Union’s strategic priorities, from post-pandemic economic recovery to the urgent need for a unified position on climate change and digital transformation. Her remarks, which come at a time of significant geopolitical upheaval, underline the EU’s commitment to solidarity, innovation and resilience in an increasingly complex global landscape.

It’s here:

Thank you very much, dear Roberta,

Hello everyone,

I assume you have heard my speech and perhaps read the policy brief. So you can imagine that this is a very emotional and special moment for me now. I just want to make three very brief remarks before I turn to your questions.

The first is a more personal remark. I cannot start without expressing my gratitude for the confidence of the majority in the European Parliament. 401 votes in favour – you will remember that last time it was 8 votes above the necessary majority. This time it is 41, so it is much better. It sends a strong message of confidence. I think it is also a recognition of the hard work that we have done together over the last five years of the last mandate. We have spared no effort. We have navigated the most troubled waters that our Union has ever faced. And we have stayed the course towards our long-term European objectives. I would also like to thank you, Roberta, the group leaders of the democratic forces in Parliament and all the MEPs for the excellent cooperation, including during the last mandate, but also for the very substantial exchanges that we have had over the last two weeks – after the elections and over the last two weeks. I think that is a very good basis for the next five years. And I think that was tangible in today’s debate.

Secondly, I want to stress that I was very happy to have the opportunity to run a truly pan-European election campaign. As you know, it took me from Helsinki to Lisbon, from Bucharest to Rome and many different places. I engaged with people from all walks of life. And I enjoyed taking part in the series of TV debates that we had with the other candidates. I think it makes our European democracy much more vibrant.

And finally, let me briefly explain the next steps. I will now focus on building my team of Commissioners for the next five years. In the coming weeks, I will ask the leaders to present their candidates. I will – as I did last time – write a letter and ask for the proposal of one man and one woman as candidates. The only exception is, as last time, when a Commissioner in office stays. And then, I will have interviews with the candidates from mid-August, and I want to select the best prepared candidates who share the European commitment. Again, I will aim for an equal share of men and women at the College table. The new team will prepare to pass successfully the hearings in Parliament. Then, I will ask again for confirmation from this House.

Thank you so much.