SOTEU: European business needs rapid and concrete results felt on the ground

We appreciate European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s message in her State of the Union speech that kickstarting Europe’s economy must be the number one priority.

The State of the Union speech is an important moment to set out Europe’s priorities for the year ahead. The message that Europe urgently needs to become stronger and more independent – economically, technologically, and strategically – resonates strongly with the European business community.

We support the President’s commitment to continue simplifying regulation, reducing regulatory burdens, accelerating permitting procedures and lowering energy costs.

The emphasis on investment, artificial intelligence and diversifying Europe’s trade flows also reflects key priorities for strengthening the EU’s competitiveness in an increasingly challenging global environment.

Delivery will now be decisive. European companies need to see rapid and concrete results on the ground, creating the conditions for them to invest, innovate and compete globally.