János Bóka delivered a speech at an event celebrating 20 years of Hungary's EU membership.Continue reading
János Bóka, Minister of EU Affairs, announced at the 14th Infoparlament – Parliament of the Information Society conference, that the Hungarian Presidency is preparing a new European competitiveness pact.
This initiative aims to be confirmed at the highest political level during the informal European Council meeting in Hungary this November, setting the direction for the next five-year EU institutional cycle.
The Hungarian presidency, commencing on July 1, will focus on enhancing EU competitiveness. János Bóka revealed that around 1,500-1,600 working group meetings and 230 presidency events are planned, with a detailed program to be published on June 18. He highlighted the importance of opening “a new phase of cooperation” following the European Parliament elections, utilizing the transition period to define vital strategies and political orientations for the next five years.
Mr. Bóka emphasized the need to assess the global situation surrounding the EU and its response to recent challenges.
He described the geopolitical climate as fragile, with no immediate resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war and risks of escalation in the Middle East, the Caucasus, and the Far East. He noted the growing polarization between the United States and China, predicting inevitable conflict and uncertainty about the EU’s role in this dynamic.
The Minister stressed that the EU’s competitiveness has been declining and underscored the importance of the next four to five years in determining the EU’s global positioning. He argued that policy choices and the shaping of the economic, political, and regulatory environment are crucial for the EU’s future.
Bóka criticized Europe’s current regulatory approach, advocating for a shift towards growth-oriented policies.
He also pointed out that the quality of legislation is a significant handicap for EU competitiveness.
Europe is lagging behind its competitors: productivity & competitiveness of member states must be improved and growth encouraged. Top priority of #HU24EU is the adoption of the New Competitiveness Agreement. Today met w/ @ert_eu pic.twitter.com/R14Ecqgm9a
— Bóka János (@JanosBoka_HU) June 4, 2024
He called for reducing administrative burdens, introducing realistic economic targets and incentives, completing the internal market, and developing infrastructure—all critical factors for enhancing competitiveness.
Via MTI; Featured Image: Pixabay