Speeches and statements
EU-India Summit in New Delhi, 10 February 2012
"EU and India are strategic and natural partners that share the responsibility to address the most pressing challenges"
09/02/2012
Ahead of the 12th annual EU-India summit in New Delhi on 10th February 2012, President Barroso said: "The EU and India are strategic and natural partners that share the responsibility to address some of the most pressing challenges the world is currently faced with. We have to capitalise on our long-standing relationship to benefit from the many opportunities offered in key areas, such as trade, energy, and research. An increased EU-India cooperation will not only foster growth in the short term in both our continents, but will also create conditions towards a sustainable and more inclusive development in the long run."
The summit agenda will cover bilateral, regional and global issues. The EU will be represented by European Commission President José Manuel Barroso and by European Council President Herman Van Rompuy. The EU Trade Commissioner, Karel De Gucht, will also attend the summit. The Republic of India will be represented by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna, Trade Minister A. Sharma and National Security Adviser, S.S. Menon.
Rencontre avec Jacques Delors à l'occasion du 20ème anniversaire du Traité de Maastricht
07/02/2012
"Aujourd'hui c'est précisément jour pour jour le 20ème anniversaire de Maastricht et je crois que nous devons continuer à renforcer l'Europe dans l'esprit de Maastricht" a dit le Président Barroso suite à sa rencontre avec Jacques Delors, ancien Président de la Commission européenne et Président-Fondateur de "Notre Europe". "Maastricht a créé une Union économique et monétaire, mais on n'avait pas encore tous les moyens de compléter cette Union économique et monétaire. Je crois que malgré toutes les résistances, nous faisons des progrès" a-t-il ajouté. Il a aussi rappelé que c'est seulement ensemble, dans le respect de la méthode communautaire que "les institutions européennes et les Etats membres pourront faire avancer nos objectifs - objectifs auxquels Jacques Delors a tellement contribué lorsqu'il était Président de la Commission".
Statement on the current situation in Greece
07/02/2012
After his meeting with the former President of the Commission Jacques Delors President Barroso urged the political parties in Greece to make a commitment to the common goals and to support the efforts that the Commission is deploying together with the Greek government in order to keep Greece in the euro area. "We want Greece in the euro. The European Commission has made it clear from the beginning that it is very important not only for Greece, but also for the euro and for the European project to keep Greece in the euro", he stated and concluded: "I want to make this message clear urging the political leadership of the different political parties in Greece to work together for what I believe is a better future for that country, that we very much respect and that we want to keep in our Union and in the euro area."
Message to the President–elect of Finland, Mr Sauli Niinistö
06/02/2012
On behalf of the European Commission President Barroso congratulated Mr Sauli Niinistö, President–elect of Finland. He stated: "I wish you every success in the fulfilment of your new responsibilities in line with the mandate you have received from the Finnish people, and I hope you will continue to make a positive contribution to the European debate. Please accept, Dear Mr President-elect, the assurance of my highest consideration."
Message to Queen Elisabeth II
06/02/2012
On behalf of the European Commission, President Barroso sent a message of congratulations to Her Majesty The Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland saying: "I would like to congratulate Your Majesty most warmly on the occasion of your Diamond Jubilee. Throughout the 60 years of your Reign, Your Majesty has inspired hope, cooperation and unity among the peoples of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, and has actively and graciously represented the United Kingdom towards European partners and the rest of the world. In this special year of celebration, I would like to express my most sincere best wishes to Your Majesty and the Royal Family."
Meeting with the Tunisian Prime Minister, Hamadi Jebali
02/02/2012
Following a meeting with the Prime Minister of Tunisia, Mr Hamadi Jebali, and members of his government, President Barroso declared: ‘You are here in Brussels among friends. The European Commission is at your side, standing alongside your country and all Tunisians at this historic moment.’ During the meeting, the leaders discussed the action priorities for the Tunisian government and, in particular, its commitment to the process of democratisation, reform and development currently underway in Tunisia. ‘As I said last year in Tunis, the Union remains determined to move towards a closer partnership with Tunisia and to support its efforts. The visit today enabled us to confirm that this is a shared ambition which we have cemented in a joint statement,’ said the president. The president also recalled that the European Commission has mobilised European and international partners for Tunisia under the framework of the ‘Tunisia-EU Task Force’.
EU relations – Tunisia: Joint statement "Towards a closer partnership"
Meeting with the Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg
02/02/2012
President Barroso received the Minister-President of the German Land Baden-Württemberg, Winfried Kretschmann. They had an exchange of views on the outcome of the informal European Council of 30 January. Both agreed on the importance of respecting the Community method and institutions in tackling the current debt crisis. They also discussed the need to continue smart fiscal consolidation and stabilise the euro area, including the banking system, while paying increasing attention to sustainable growth and employment.
Message to Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski
02/02/2012
President Barroso sent a message of condolence to the President of the Republic of Poland, Bronisław Komorowski, after the passing away of the Polish Nobel prize winner in Literature, Ms Wisława Szymborska, who died on 1st February. President Barroso said: "The poetry of Wisława Szymborska became highly recognised and appreciated by readers all over world. Her unique contribution to the European culture is undeniable. We will all miss Szymborska's sense of humour and irony, modesty, distance and gentle reflection upon the reality and her talent to turn ordinary into extraordinary. Wisława Szymborska had this exceptional capacity of expressing her views on atrocities and beauties of Humanity on the simplest and the innermost way. Europe has lost one of its biggest writers and intellectuals, a great witness of the 20th century. On behalf of the European Commission, I would like to extend my sincerest condolences to You, Mr President, and to the people of Poland."
European Competition Forum
02/02/2012
In a keynote speech entitled 'European Union Competition policy – a building block for growth and renewal' at the European Competition Forum, President Barroso stressed that at time when we are making so much effort to stabilise our economy, competition policy has a fundamental role in providing credibility and coherence. "Despite the criticism we sometimes face for our decisions, European competition law is cited as a model of independence, coherence and objectivity," stated the President. "Monopolies and protectionism have an immensely corrosive effect on wider society. In difficult economic times, it is more important, not less, to combat them." He explained that Europe's future growth prospects depend on a rules-based Single Market that fosters openness and innovation. "Innovation is a cornerstone of our growth agenda - because it is about more than product development. It is about the way our society changes and improves. It is about the way we do business. It is about turning new ideas into growth for our companies, jobs for our citizens and well-being for our societies."
Informal European Council, 30 January 2012
"It is not enough to focus on financial stability and economic discipline alone"
01/02/2012
Updated 1 February
On Wednesday President Barroso presented in the European Parliament the conclusions of January's Informal European Council. "Firstly, the European Council was a first but a significant step of Heads of State and Government in recognising that it is not enough to focus on financial stability and economic discipline alone," started the President and explained that "by bringing to the table concrete proposals to tackle youth unemployment and to finance SMEs, the Commission broadened the perspective towards the issues that are of greatest concern to our citizens – jobs and growth, sustainable growth."
Furthermore he stressed that the main message coming from the discussion on growth and employment on Monday was the need to do much more to unleash the potential of the Single Market, Europe's "crown jewel". President Barroso also highlighted the Commission's determination to maintain the role of the European Union institutions and of the Community method in the new Treaty. He said: "We are now entering into a new phase of economic governance, based on the European Semester, where governments recognise that even matters under their national competence, such as employment, should be dealt with at European as well as national level." He went on calling for an urgent response from Member States and made concrete proposals to halt the youth unemployment saying: "Each Member State will prepare a national job plan, centred on a youth guarantee to ensure that all young people are either in a job, in training or in education within four months of leaving school."
President Barroso concluded that the "contracting Member States agreed to respect the Commission's central role in delivering the Agreement's objectives in line with the Lisbon Treaty and the Community method. And they agreed to keep the Treaty open to all and compatible with the community method, respecting this European Parliament."
Updated 31 January
President Barroso on Tuesday sent letters to the leaders of eight member states with youth unemployment levels significantly above the EU average: Spain, Greece, Slovakia, Lithuania, Italy, Portugal, Latvia and Ireland. In the letter he outlined the proposed steps to be taken, including: the nomination of a contact person by national authorities, a visit by the Commission team in February, and the identification of the necessary elements of a youth employment plan and the support schemes for SMEs which could be accelerated or benefit from funding not yet committed from within the national Structural Funds allocation. The objective is to develop by mid-April targeted plans to be included in the National Reform Programmes in which each member state outlines its economic policy priorities in the context of the European Semester.
Updated 30 January
"We are making a root and branch reform of our budgetary and economic policies."
"Today we had a very detailed discussion on how to boost our economy And this was part of delivering what we have set out to do right from the start: to create financial stability, at the same time to put in place a basis for sustainable growth," said President Barroso at the press conference after the Informal European Council. He underlined that "the Treaty establishing the European Stability Mechanism is now ready for signature and the objective is that it enters into force in July 2012."
In his statement the President explained that the meeting today concentrated on discussing growth and employment, namely the programme against youth unemployment, the problems of our SMEs and the problems of the Internal Market. He said: "I have proposed also some concrete policies on fight of youth unemployment, the single market and small businesses. And some of these proposals can be done quickly and make their impact felt rapidly." He later on exhaustedly presented the National Job Plan to tackle youth unemployment and stressed that "to support the small businesses, which form the backbone of our economy, we also must do more internally, with the market access in our single market, but also abroad what they can gain in terms of market access also to reduce the red tape they face and also how to get easier access to finance, because this is one of the main problems SMEs in Europe now face."
President Barroso concluded stressing the importance to "keep the course, to be determined, to be coherent, to be persistent." "The reality is that many of our member states are making impressive reforms, but of course some of those results take time to appear. I believe that if we keep this line we will gain back the confidence, not only of the markets, but mainly, and this is the most important of all, the confidence of our citizens," he said.
Ahead of the informal European Council of 30 January 2012, President Barroso made the following remarks:
On growth and smart fiscal consolidation:
"Growth is and has always been at the centre of the Commission's comprehensive response to the crisis. That is precisely what the structural reform agenda is about. But since structural reforms can take time to make their benefits felt, we have also put forward many ideas to stimulate growth in the short term, for instance by using EU funding more effectively to ease the credit squeeze on small businesses. I will propose to Member States to redeploy structural funds to boost growth and job creation even further."
"We cannot resort to fiscal stimulus to boost growth at the present time. The current fragility of our economies stems from a lack of confidence in Member States' ability to pay their debts. That is why smart fiscal consolidation is crucial in our crisis response: not an end in itself, but a means to achieve sustainable public finances, without which there can be no lasting recovery. But I emphasise it must be smart: countries which cut in the very areas they need to nurture for future growth will pay a heavy price down the line. This is not a choice between fiscal consolidation and growth. We need both!"
On youth unemployment:
"We cannot accept that almost a quarter of Europe's young people are unemployed! I will be proposing the creation of joint 'action teams' with the Commission, Member States and national social partners, to come up with targeted plans by April to help tackle youth unemployment. I also want Member States to commit to a 'Youth on the Move' pact to ensure that all our young people are either in a job, in education or in training within four months of leaving school."
On support for SMEs:
"Small businesses are the backbone of the European economy – and they need our help. We must do more to help them through this crisis. The Commission has put proposals on the table to free up available funding, reduce the burden of red tape and address decisively the problem of late or non-payments of outstanding invoices, which are responsible for a quarter of all bankruptcies in Europe. These must be agreed and implemented swiftly."
Read the President's statement following the Informal European Council. SPEECH/12/49
Watch the press conference after the Informal European Council
The President's presentation "Growth and Jobs: Next steps" 
[2 MB] 
Speaking points on the presentation [42 KB]
Background information: "Key figures on growth, jobs and competitiveness" [3 MB]
EU funding for growth and jobs
This statement is also available on RAPID
Read more about the EU's Europe 2020 economic reform strategy
Meeting with Abdul Latif Bin Rashid Al Zayani
01/02/2012
During a meeting with the Secretary General of the Cooperation Council (GCC) for The Arab States of The Gulf, Abdul Latif Bin Rashid Al Zayani, President Barroso offered EU support and advice for the GCC's aspirations to move from “Council to Union”. The leaders also discussed the importance of EU trade with the GCC region. President Barroso underlined that the EU remains committed to concluding the EU-GCC Free Trade Agreement. Furthermore, the President showed EU appreciation for GCC's increased political role in the region, notably Yemen, Syria and Libya.
Meeting with Norbert Lammert, President of the German Bundestag
01/02/2012
President Barroso met the President of the German Bundestag, Professor Norbert Lammert. They had an exchange of views on the outcome of the informal European Council of 30 January and emphasised the need for swift implementation of the measures agreed so as to bring the European Union on the path of lasting stability, convergence and economic growth. They also discussed the state of democracy in Europe and the role of the Bundestag in European affairs. President Barroso welcomed the German parliament's active engagement in European matters and congratulated the Bundestag on the fifth anniversary of its office in Brussels.
Letter to 8 member states' leaders on youth unemployment
31/01/2012
President Barroso on Tuesday sent letters to the leaders of eight member states with youth unemployment levels significantly above the EU average: Spain, Greece, Slovakia, Lithuania, Italy, Portugal, Latvia and Ireland. In the letter he outlined the proposed steps to be taken, including: the nomination of a contact person by national authorities, a visit by the Commission team in February, and the identification of the necessary elements of a youth employment plan and the support schemes for SMEs which could be accelerated or benefit from funding not yet committed from within the national Structural Funds allocation. The objective is to develop by mid-April targeted plans to be included in the National Reform Programmes in which each member state outlines its economic policy priorities in the context of the European Semester.
News from the informal European Council, 30 January 2012
Letters addressed to the national leaders:
Meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy
30/01/2012
President Barroso held his first meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy since he assumed office in December 2011. Ahead of the informal European Council on growth and jobs, President Barroso said: "Many of the problems the Spanish government needs to solve are also European problems. I am thinking in particular of youth unemployment, which will be an important element in the presentation I will give to the European Council this afternoon." The President said he was confident the Spanish government would support the Commission's initiatives to tackle this problem, as well as to use the Structural Funds to support SMEs in need of financing. The President also said the Commission regretted the decision of the European Parliament not to approve the protocol negotiated with Morocco on fishing rights, noting the negative economic impact of this decision on Spanish coastal regions and highlighting the possibility of using a part of the European Fisheries Fund monies allocated to Spain in order to compensate for this.
Meeting with Croatian Prime Minister, Mr Zoran Milanović
30/01/2012
Ahead of the informal European Council, President Barroso met the new Prime Minister of Croatia, Mr Zoran Milanović. President Barroso congratulated him on his recent appointment and the successful result of the recent Croatian accession referendum. He stressed that with this solid mandate, the new Government should now continue on the reform path towards full EU membership in July 2013 and ensure that all the commitments taken in the accession negotiations are fully respected, notably in the fields of the judiciary, human rights and competition. The Commission would continue to monitor this process. The two leaders also discussed today's Summit, agreeing on the need to boost growth and jobs for Europe's citizens.
Meeting with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Belgium, Elio Di Rupo
27/01/2012
On the Friday preceding the European Council meeting, President Barroso met the Belgian Prime Minister Di Rupo and expressed his satisfaction with the ‘government of reform’. ‘Because that is exactly what the whole of Europe needs: reform. We are in the process of giving new life to the economies in Europe which will be stronger, more integrated and more adapted to the challenges of the future,’ he said. The two leaders primarily discussed measures for stimulating growth and employment within the EU. Concerning the next informal European Council meeting, President Barroso declared: ‘On Monday, we will present ideas to relaunch, in the short term, some programmes for growth and employment.’ Budgetary stability, the International Treaty and Europe in general were also discussed.
EU funding for growth and jobs
27/01/2012
EU funding, in particular in the field of cohesion policy, has the clear objective of supporting growth and jobs. Equipped with € 347 bn in the period 2007-2013, it is a future-oriented investment policy. Cohesion policy has become an important part of the EU's answer to the crisis. Ahead of the informal European Council of 30 January, the Commission's message to Member States is to make full use of EU funding and instruments to underpin national efforts, and look into ways how to use effectively the remaining € 82 bn of funding from the European Social Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the Cohesion Fund not yet committed to projects.
The use of structural funds gathered pace in 2011, with payments to Member States from last year's cohesion policy budget hitting a record €32.9 bn, an 8% increase on the €30.5 bn paid out in 2010.
More information on cohesion policy: Regional policy; The European Social Fund
Meeting with the President of Bulgaria, Rosen Plevneliev
26/01/2012
During a meeting between President Barroso and Bulgarian President Plevneliev, a range of European and national issues were discussed. "At the informal European Council next Monday I will push for immediate action in three areas: tackling unemployment, especially youth unemployment; a deepening of the single market as a way to boost growth, and also specific measures to help SMEs in Europe," said President Barroso after the discussion. He expressed his concern about the youth unemployment situation which is reaching crisis point. "This is also a particular concern in Bulgaria with youth unemployment at almost 26%," the President said and added: "I hope that the informal European Council will support my proposal to establish special Action Teams to produce targeted plans based on best practice, so that we can have job programmes for youth in all our Member States, specifically those who have more difficulties in this area."
Meeting with the presidents of the European political parties
26/01/2012
The President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, met today with the President of the European People’s Party, Wilfried Martens, the President of the Party of European Socialists, Sergueï Stanichev, the President of the European Liberal Democrat and Reform Party, Sir Graham Watson and the co-presidents of the European Green Party, Monica Frassoni and Philippe Lamberts. It was an opportunity for President Barroso and the heads of the European political parties to renew their strong joint support for the fundamental principles of the integrity of the European Union, and for their respect of the treaties and the Community method. ‘Under no circumstances is this about creating new European institutions, but rather strengthening the link between the existing institutions and national bodies. To this end, it is vital that cooperation between national parliaments and the European parliament clearly subscribes to the treaties of the European Union in accordance with the Protocol’, the president stated after the meeting.
Commission proposes reform of data protection rules
25/01/2012
The European Commission has today proposed a comprehensive reform of the EU's 1995 data protection rules to strengthen online privacy rights and boost Europe's digital economy. Technological progress and globalisation have profoundly changed the way our data is collected, accessed and used. In addition, the 27 EU Member States have implemented the 1995 rules differently, resulting in divergences in enforcement. A single law will do away with the current fragmentation and costly administrative burdens, leading to savings for businesses of around €2.3 billion a year. The initiative will help reinforce consumer confidence in online services, providing a much needed boost to growth, jobs and innovation in Europe.
Meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán
"It is essential for the European Commission to make sure that EU law, both in letter and in spirit, is fully respected by Hungary"
24/01/2012
After the meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán President Barroso said: "I received today Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to discuss the situation in Hungary. We had a comprehensive and constructive discussion. The Prime Minister indicated Hungary's readiness to address swiftly the issues raised by the Commission. On 17 January 2012, the Commission launched infringement procedures relating to a number of new provisions in Hungarian legislation, namely the independence of the country's central bank, data protection authority and certain measures affecting its judiciary. The Commission asked for detailed answers from the Hungarian authorities within a month. I have clarified with Prime Minister Orbán the work ahead that is needed to speedily address the Commission’s legal concerns. The services of the Commission have already started to work on this with the Hungarian authorities. They are ready to fully assess the formal answers from the Hungarian side as soon as we receive them. The same is valid for the information request on the independence of the judiciary. It is essential for the European Commission to make sure that EU law, both in letter and in spirit, is fully respected by Hungary, as by any other Member State. I also reiterated that there are wider political concerns that the Hungarian Government needs to address. At a time of economic and financial crisis, confidence of citizens and markets in Hungary remains particularly crucial."
Meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz
24/01/2012
President Barroso received the new President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, for his first official visit to the Commission. The two presidents assured each other of the genuine cooperation of their institutions and their mutual appreciation. During the meeting, they discussed current events in Europe and prospective areas for joint work. President Barroso also emphasised the importance of linking smart budgetary consolidation with actions promoting growth and employment. In view of the European Council, he said : ‘I hope that the European Council on 30 January will seriously consider the proposals currently being prepared by the Commission for stimulating growth as part of the Europe 2020 Strategy, which I will present at the European Council’.
Official meeting with Bill Gates
24/01/2012
On Tuesday, President Barroso met Bill Gates to discuss further cooperation between the Commission and the Gates Foundation in the field of global development, notably regarding poverty alleviation, health and vaccination campaigns and sustainable agriculture and food security. "The EU is the world's largest donor and we will continue to invest in human development across the globe" President Barroso said. "The Commission has just proposed a substantial external aid package for 2014-2020 period that reflects this European leadership and commitment … To be as effective as possible in our support, we will deepen our cooperation with private partners, like civil society organisations and foundations", the President stressed. "The Gates Foundation will remain a key partner for us."
Global launch of Hiriko Driving Mobility
24/01/2012
At the launch of the "Hiriko" project, which according to the President Barroso is "much more than just a small, folding and smart electric car", the European Commission President paid tribute to Diogo Vasconcelos saying: "Diogo was a person of outstanding energy and charisma. He never stopped thinking ahead, developing and connecting ideas and engaging with new people, always with one main objective in mind: a better future for all."
President Barroso underlined that "Hiriko is European social innovation at its best … Firstly, it is a successful example of how to give a new lease of life to traditional industrial sectors by contributing to address major modern societal challenges, in that specific case, urban mobility and pollution. Secondly, it is a great combination of new business types of cooperation and employment opportunities with a strong social dimension. Thirdly, it is an excellent illustration of the finest use that can be made of European social funds. Indeed Hiriko was initiated thanks to a European social fund project aiming at stimulating job creation in a disadvantaged area."
He also outlined that European Commission will soon launch a "European Social innovation prize Competition in memory of Diogo Vasconcelos". President Barroso said: "Yes, we are working for the future, but we should be focused immediately on the present. This is a very important reminder of the need to act now."
Meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel
23/01/2012
The President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, and the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy met with the German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin. They had an exchange of views in preparation of the upcoming informal European Council meeting on 30 January 2012.
50th anniversary of the Common Agricultural Policy
23/01/2012
At the ceremony to mark the 50th anniversary of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), President Barroso recalled that this policy enabled European agriculture to be thoroughly modernised. The president also emphasised the role that a reformed CAP will play in supporting growth and employment: ‘A reformed CAP will play a vital role in achieving the objectives of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, which we set in the Europe 2020 Strategy so that Europe can come out of the current crisis both stronger and more united.’
Launching the 50th Anniversary of the Common Agricultural Policy campaign
50 Years of the CAP - A partnership between Europe and Farmers
Informal meeting with the Social Partners
23/01/2012
Ahead of next week's European Council which will focus on jobs and growth, President Barroso and Commissioner Andor met with the Social Partners to discuss the challenges of youth unemployment. Noting that today more than five million Europeans under the age of 25 cannot find work, the President said: "The Commission is determined to play its part in addressing this unacceptable reality." He stressed: "It is at the national level that decisive action to tackle youth unemployment is most urgently needed and this is why the active and constructive involvement of the Social Partners is so essential. It is of the utmost importance that Member States fully activate national mechanisms to use EU tools as effectively as possible. EU funds can still be reprogrammed to give priority to youth employment. The Commission stands ready to support these efforts in any way it can."
EU accession referendum in Croatia
23/01/2012
President Barroso and the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, welcomed the positive result of the referendum on the accession of Croatia to the European Union in their joint press statement: "We welcome the positive outcome of the referendum on Croatia's accession to the European Union. With this vote, Croatia's citizens have given their endorsement to European integration. We congratulate Croatia and its people on their choice: EU membership will open up new opportunities for them and help secure the stability and prosperity of their nation. With this popular mandate, the Croatian government can now complete the remaining preparations for membership. We are looking forward to a smooth ratification process by the Croatian Parliament as well as by the Parliaments of all EU Member States, so that Croatia can become the Union's 28th member on 1 July 2013. The upcoming accession of Croatia sends a clear signal to the whole region of South Eastern Europe. It shows that through political courage and determined reforms, EU membership is within reach. Today's positive vote is therefore good news for Croatia, good news for the region, and good news for Europe."
Statement on Cyprus
20/01/2012
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is meeting the leaders of the two communities in Cyprus, Christofias and Eroglu, on 22 – 24 January in New York. In a statement ahead of the meeting, President Barroso said: "I warmly welcome the initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to convene this meeting with the leaders of the two Cypriot communities in New York. The meeting with the Secretary-General offers both leaders the opportunity in this important phase of the process to show the necessary political will, vision and determination and use this unique opportunity for reunification in Cyprus. I share the assessment of the Secretary-General that a window of opportunity currently exists and that an agreement is possible. The two leaders and the United Nations can continue to count on the European Commission's full support of their efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement. All Cypriots, the European Union and the entire region will benefit from a united Cyprus."
EP Debate on the start of the Danish EU Presidency
"The Europe 2020 strategy is not a strategy that can wait until 2020 – it needs action now"
18/01/2012
Speaking in the European Parliament plenary debate on the start of the Danish EU Presidency, President Barroso expressed his conviction that Denmark would make a decisive contribution to the common European project.
The President recalled the Commission's view of a comprehensive crisis response, going beyond fiscal consolidation, as put forward in its Roadmap to stability and growth last October. He said: "The Commission will urge the Member States to complete what is still pending in this Roadmap – from a lasting solution for Greece, to the implementation of a credible system of firewalls."
"While we put these instruments in place, our response cannot only be about discipline and sanctions. Yes, discipline is needed but we also need convergence. Yes, stability is indispensable but we also need growth. Europe needs greater convergence, solidarity and growth." He then reiterated that growth in Europe must come from deepening our Single Market and warned of protracted discussions on the European patent: "We must urgently reach agreement on the European patent. We have been discussing this for decades. I fully expect negotiations on this to be completed early in the Danish Presidency. I call on the three Member States, France, Germany and the United Kingdom, who are holding this up over a site issue of some offices, to swiftly find a compromise. Frankly, it is not acceptable! It is not acceptable that such a crucial initiative is blocked over such a trivial disagreement." On Europe's overall growth strategy he said: "Many of the measures we need are already on the table in the Europe 2020 growth strategy. There will be no resolution to this crisis unless we get serious about implementing them. The Europe 2020 strategy is not a strategy that can wait until 2020 – it needs action now."
Read the President's opening statement
Watch the President's opening statement at the EP Plenary Debate
Watch the President's closing remarks at the EP Plenary Debate
Previous news on College visit to Denmark, 11 – 12 January 2012
EP debate on the situation in Hungary
18/01/2012
In the presence of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, the European Parliament held a debate on the situation in Hungary, one day after the Commission launched three infringement procedures against the country. President Barroso, participating in the debate, said: "I believe we have to be clear on the values, firm on the principles, fair on the method and sensible on the communication." On the legal dimension of the matter, President Barroso underlined the determination of the Commission "to do everything in our power to apply EU law in a consistent and objective way and take further steps if needed." He also explained that this is "part of a sustained and determined effort by the Commission to ensure the full respect of European Union law by the Member States." President Barroso also referred to the letter addressed to him by Prime Minister Orbán announcing the intention to modify the relevant legislation and to work with the Commission in the next days in order to find legal solutions to the issues raised.
Concerning the political dimension, President Barroso made a strong appeal to the Hungarian authorities "to respect the very principles of democracy and freedom and to implement them not only in the norms but also in the practice and in the political and social life in this country."
He said: "We will continue to urge the Hungarian government to act in a responsible and democratic manner, and in the best interests of all Hungarian citizens. For it is only through a legally stable environment, based on the rule of law, democratic principles and fundamental rights, that the confidence of citizens, of partners and investors can be gained and upheld. In times of economic crisis this is more vital than ever, apart from being, of course, a question of democratic principles."
President Barroso concluded: "This should not be a debate against Hungary but for Hungary and with Hungary."
Economic governance: Statement on the international agreement
18/01/2012
In the European Parliament today, President Barroso described the international agreement as an "essential element of a larger package of action to respond to the sovereign debt crisis, including a strengthened and anticipated European Stability Mechanism, which is urgently needed for the stability and coherence of the Euro area". He explained that the European Parliament and the European Commission are standing firmly together in the defense of principles like the primacy of EU law, democratic accountability, importance of EU institutions and the need to integrate the agreement into the Treaties.
The President emphasised that the Commission will continue to participate constructively but vigilantly in the negotiations, and explained the amendments tabled by the Commission last week. He underlined that "the Euro area must be strengthened, yes, but not at the expense of the wider Union." He concluded by saying: "This Agreement, if these rules are respected, can be an important tool in building a solid stability and growth agenda based on the Europe 2020 strategy and also on the Roadmap presented by the Commission."
European Commission opens accelerated infringement proceedings against Hungary
"We do not want the shadow of doubt on respect for democratic principles and values to remain over Hungary any longer"
17/01/2012
The European Commission has today started legal action against Hungary on 3 issues: the independence of the National Central Bank, the retirement age of judges and the independence of the data protection authority. The Commission has also asked the Hungarian authorities for further information on the issue of the independence of the judiciary. The Hungarian authorities now have one month to respond to the Commission's concerns. In his statement following the meeting of the College, President Barroso underlined that this decision is "the result of a sound legal analysis which the Commission has completed swiftly". He reiterated that the Commission is determined "to make sure that EU law, both in letter and in spirit are fully respected and a stable legal environment exists in all of our Member States". President Barroso welcomed the readiness of the Prime Minister of Hungary to meet him next Tuesday to discuss the concerns of the Commission.
Statement by President Barroso
Press release: European Commission launches accelerated infringement proceedings against Hungary
Congratulations to the new President of the European Parliament
17/01/2012
President Barroso today congratulated Martin Schulz on his election as President of the European Parliament. In his speech in the plenary session, he reaffirmed the support of the Commission for the European Parliament and its new President. He stated that "today it is more important than ever to reinforce European democracy" and called on the "different political forces to work together for a strong Europe". President Barroso also thanked the outgoing President, Jerzy Buzek, who "has presided over this Parliament in an impressive and principled manner in historic and testing times."
Diamond Award Ceremony, Katowice, Poland
16/01/2012
President Barroso received the Diamond award of Laurels of Abilities and Competence in Zabrze, Poland. In his acceptance speech to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Katowice, he stressed the importance of regions in the European Union. He emphasised the need to invest more in European regions and to support small and medium sized companies. He stated: "in Europe we have 23 million unemployed people and we have 23 million SMEs. If each one of those SMEs creates only one job, we would have problem of the unemployment solved."
College visit to Denmark, 11 – 12 January 2012
"Fiscal discipline is indispensable for Europe. But that's not enough."
12/01/2012
The European Commission meets the Danish government in Copenhagen at the start of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU. The programme comprises a plenary meeting and different working sessions to discuss the implementation of the main priorities. These include financial stability and the creation of growth and jobs, for example through deepening the Single Market, green growth and energy efficiency. The College of Commissioners will also attend a luncheon hosted by Her Majesty Queen Margrethe as well as the opening of an exhibition on Europe's relations with the world in the Danish National Museum. On 11 January there is a press point of the President and Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt, and on 12 January a joint press conference by the two. President Barroso emphasised that Denmark can be a bridge between the euro area and non-euro area members and praised the pragmatic approach and European commitment of Denmark.
In a press door step on the first day President Barroso thanked Danish Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt and her government for the warm welcome and said: "Let me tell you that we very much share the priorities of the Danish Presidency for a more dynamic, more open, safer and greener Europe. And I believe that these tasks are going to be delivered during the Danish Presidency. We very much support you, Prime Minister, in your commitment to this kind of Europe – a Europe that is closer to citizens. As I said before – the Danish Presidency comes at a very crucial moment for the European project. We have to show to our citizens concrete results in their daily lives. There are also some risks here and there of fragmentation. We want all the Member States to be involved in our common purpose and I count on Denmark for building bridges, consolidating this kind of unity and we will work, of course, loyally and very closely with the Danish Presidency to make this presidency a success for Denmark and a success for Europe."
Updated 12 January
At the end of the Commission's visit to Copenhagen and after a meeting with the Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, President Barroso said: "We have been both standing on the deck discussing big political issues, and in the engine room to look at how we can work together for concrete results for our citizens". He stressed that "the Presidency and the Commission fully agree that fiscal discipline and sound public finances are indispensable for Europe. But that is not enough! Discipline is indispensable but growth is also necessary."
The President underlined that "the structural reforms boosting competitiveness and measures enhancing growth are as important as putting our public finances in order to restore confidence. This is what the Commission has consistently advocated and insisted on in its comprehensive approach to the crisis."
He stressed that: "growth is within our reach, if we can break down the barriers that stop money, services and people flowing through our Union as they should. And the fact that Denmark puts the deepening of the Single Market and green growth at the heart of its presidency is crucial to ensure we will succeed." The President also outlined that the EU's future Multiannual Financial Framework should be discussed as part of a contribution to growth. He ended by praising the determination of the Presidency: "With this commitment, underpinned by its action at home, Denmark can be a bridge at European level and also a role model."
Official website of the Danish EU Presidency 2012
Read the Programme of the Danish EU Presidency
Watch the Press point by President Barroso and Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt , 11 January 2012
Watch the Press conference by President Barroso and Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt, 12 January 2012
Read the statement at the joint press conference, Copenhagen, 12 January 2012
Read President's speech at the opening of the "Europe meets the world" exhibition, 11 January 2012
Excessive Deficit Procedure (EDP)
11/01/2012
The European Commission today concluded that four out of the five Member States identified last November as needing to take immediate action to correct their excessive deficits have now done so effectively. The measures taken by Belgium, Cyprus, Malta and Poland should be sufficient to correct their excessive deficits by the agreed deadlines of 2011 or 2012. It will not therefore be necessary to take further steps at this stage under the Excessive Deficit Procedure for these four countries, though the Commission will continue to monitor closely their budgetary situations.
In the case of Hungary, the Commission concluded that sufficient progress has not been made towards a timely and sustainable correction of its excessive deficit. It has therefore recommended to the Council that Hungary be moved to the next stage of the Excessive Deficit Procedure. This is the first time the Commission has taken Excessive Deficit Procedure decisions since the EU’s strengthened economic governance rules entered into force in December 2011.
Read more on Excessive Deficit Procedure (EDP): Five Member States assessed
Read more on the EU economic governance "Six-Pack" entering into force
Communication and Staff Working Documents on the five Member States concerned
Statement on the situation in Hungary
11/01/2012
Today the European Commission made a statement on the situation in Hungary following the entry into force of the new Hungarian Constitution and of a number of cardinal laws. The Commission expressed its concerns that certain of the new provisions concerning the national central bank, the judiciary and the national data protection authority may violate EU law. The Commission declared that it stood ready "to make full use of its prerogatives to ensure that all Member States respect the obligations they have accepted as Members of the European Union". It committed to take appropriate steps, including the possibility of launching infringement procedures, and to announce its decisions on 17 January. The Commission also recalled that "a legally stable environment, based on the rule of law, including respect of media freedom, democratic principles and fundamental rights, are the best guarantees to ensure citizens' trust and the confidence of trading partners and investors."
Read more on the Statement of the European Commission on the situation in Hungary on 11 January 2012
Youth Opportunities Initiative
20/12/2011
Today the Commission delivered on President Barroso's promise for a Youth Opportunities Initiative made in his State of the Union Address in September 2011. President Barroso said: "The Youth Opportunities Initiative shows young people across Europe that we are attentive to their situation. We have heard their repeated calls from Madrid to Brussels to take part in European society. This starts with having a job. Long-term reforms of labour markets are clearly needed, but they take time to produce the expected results. With today's Initiative we are developing more immediate action that will help drive down youth unemployment." He added that the Commission expects Member States "to address youth employment in their 2012 National Reform Programmes under the Europe 2020 strategy." The Commission will support Member States' efforts by providing policy guidance and financing. "We need to make much better use of existing funds that are not yet committed. €30 billion of the European Social Fund is still not committed to projects and can help Member States to create larger scale support schemes for young people. In addition, we will provide €1.3 million of technical support through the European Social Fund to increase the number of apprenticeships schemes," President Barroso concluded.
EU calls for immediate action to drive down youth unemployment
Quality Framework for Services of General Interest in the EU
20/12/2011
The Commission has today adopted a Quality Framework for Services of General Interest in the EU. They provide an essential safety net for citizens in areas such as health care, care for the elderly, child care, assistance to disabled persons and social housing. They also have a key role to play in the knowledge economy in the area of schools, training centres and university. "I made clear in my Political Guidelines in 2009 that Services of General Interest play a key role in ensuring social cohesion and can also be a driver for new sources of growth," said President Barroso and added that "this quality framework adopted today is a confirmation of the European Commission's determination to support innovative, high quality public services, which are even more essential in the current difficult economic situation". At a time when public authorities are confronted with the need for fiscal consolidation, it is essential to ensure that right framework is in place so that high-quality services can be provided as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.
Commission adopts Quality Framework for Services of General Interest in the EU
State aid: Commission adopts new rules on services of general economic interest (SGEI)
Press statement by László Andor on the Youth Opportunities Initiative
Communication about the Quality Framework for Services of General Interest in Europe [86 KB]
European Union framework for State aid in the form of public service compensation (2011) [76 KB]
Proposal for a de minimis Regulation in the field of SGEI [36 KB]
EU – Ukraine summit
19/12/2011
At today's EU-Ukraine summit the negotiations of the Association Agreement were finalized. President Barroso called this "a major step in our relations". He said: "The relationship with Ukraine is very important for the EU. We want Ukraine closer to the European Union and we welcome Ukraine's European choice. At the same time, the values that underpin our relationship need to be fully observed at all times." President Barroso added: "I also had the opportunity to convey to President Yanukovych our concern regarding recent cases of what is perceived as selective justice in Ukraine against members of previous administrations, notably Mrs. Tymoshenko. And we also have discussed reforms, including in the constitutional and judicial spheres. It is precisely at a moment when we are striving to build strong and lasting relations that Ukraine needs to show its commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law, good governance, human rights and fundamental freedoms."
President's statement at the occasion of the Civil Society Forum Kiev, 19 December 2011
Condolences on the passing away of Mr. Vaclav Havel
18/12/2011
President Barroso sent a message of condolence on the passing away of Mr. Vaclav Havel: "It was with immense sadness that I heard the news of the death of Vaclav Havel," the President wrote. "He was a true European and has been a champion of democracy and liberty throughout his life. I recall with great emotion the contacts we have had while he held the office, first as President of Czechoslovakia and then of the Czech Republic and also as a European personality and man of culture. Vaclav Havel's name will remain forever attached to the reunification of Europe and the expansion of its values to Central and Eastern Europe. He was also a source of great inspiration to all those who fight for freedom and democracy around the world. The man has died but the legacy of his poems, plays and above all his ideas and personal example will remain alive for many generations to come. As he said himself in 1975 in an open letter to Gustáz Husák then President of the Communist regime: "Life cannot be destroyed for good, neither can history be brought entirely to a halt".
European Development Days in Warsaw
16/12/2011
"The European Union remains open to the world. We need to promote a world order that is fair and multilateral, based on values such as human rights, democracy, but also on common rules for global governance. These are global challenges that require a global response" said President Barroso in his speech at the European Development Days in Warsaw. President Barroso outlined the role of the EU in supporting democratic choices throughout the world and assured that "the European Union is, and will remain, committed to the defence and promotion of democratic principles."
EU-Russia summit – a summit of results
15/12/2011
In his statement following the EU-Russia summit, President Barroso outlined a number of issues on which real progress was made. He welcomed the accession of Russia to the World Trade Organization: "It opens new opportunities for trade and for the development of our bilateral economic relations". On the successful conclusion of the negotiations in Geneva on renewed Government Procurement Agreement, President Barroso stated: "This is a significant contribution to the multilateral trading system which proves the relevance of the WTO in particular in the current economic climate. This will lead to more trade and I believe will benefit all economies". Finally, President Barroso announced the launch of "Common Steps towards visa-free travel", the full implementation of which can lead to the opening of visa-waiver negotiations. "Our common goal is to have a visa-free regime between Russia and the European Union", he said.
Read the press realease ahead of the summit
Debate on the conclusions of Polish Presidency
"We have laid the foundations on which any further reforms will be built"
14/12/2011
"The Polish Presidency of the Council under difficult circumstances has delivered very important achievements. The Polish Presidency has worked with great professionalism and enthusiasm," said President Barroso during a debate on the conclusions of the Polish Presidency in the European Parliament. He then thoroughly presented the achievements of the Presidency and underlined that "Poland has constantly pushed for more Europe to address efficiently a crisis."
President Barroso stated: "A strong Europe; a more stable Europe that can withstand all kinds of weather; a Europe that can learn from its own mistakes and can address its weaknesses; building its recovery on sound and sustainable foundations. We have laid the foundations on which any further reforms will be built. The adoption of the legislative package on strengthening economic governance, the "six-pack" has significantly reinforced the Stability and Growth Pact."
The President concluded that "crisis is not behind us and we have a lot of work ahead. As we move forward, I would like that all Member States will show the same level of commitment to Europe as Poland has shown. You will be a tough act to follow. The challenge ahead will now be with our Danish friends."
President's speech at the EP debate on the review of the Polish Presidency
President's statement on the conclusion of the Polish Presidency at the press conference
Presentation of the European Council's Conclusions
"The Commission will monitor how the Member States have been living up to their additional commitments."
13/12/2011
"The main purpose of this European Council was to show joint determination to tackle persisting market tensions by consolidating these achievements and reinforcing them even further. And indeed, during Thursday night an agreement was reached to create a genuine 'fiscal stability union', a new 'fiscal compact,'" outlined President Barroso today in the European Parliament.
He stressed that it is "indispensable to have more discipline, structural reforms for more investment, more convergence, and credible mechanisms of solidarity. All these elements belong together." In his speech the President also focused on the presentation of the key elements of the new fiscal compact and highlighted a number of important conclusions of the Summit which match the Commission's position held for some time.
He underlined that the Commission will monitor how the Member States have been living up to their additional commitments made in this agreement and concluded by stressing that "coherence and persistence will now be needed for the implementation of the growth agenda for the European Union. This is exactly what our citizens expect from us – Europe of responsibility, yes, but also Europe of solidarity. Europe of stability, yes, but also Europe of growth and employment."
President's speech on the on the conclusions of the December European Council
President's closing remarks on the conclusions of the December European Council
Message of condolence to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Belgium
13/12/2011
On hearing the news of the attack in Liege which caused many deaths and injuries on Tuesday 13 December, President Barroso sent a message of condolences on the same day to Elio Di Rupo, prime minister of the Kingdom of Belgium: ‘I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the attack which caused many deaths and injuries in Liege today, Tuesday 13 December. On behalf of the European Commission and from me personally, I would like send our most sincere condolences. Our sympathy also goes to the families of the victims’.
Congratulations to the President of the Tunisian Republic
13/12/2011
On behalf of the European Commission, President Barroso congratulated Mr Marzouki on his election as President of the Tunisian Republic: "Your commitment to carry out the necessary reforms, together with the work of the Constituent Assembly, will enable Tunisia to take a decisive step and establish a true democratic State. This process is also a source of inspiration for the whole region."
Council of European Municipalities and Regions
12/12/2011
President Barroso welcomed the outcome of the Durban climate conference with a clear commitment of all major emitters to work for a legally binding global agreement. He also commented on the outcome of last week's European Council: "We must do whatever it takes to put an end to this period of uncertainties," stated President Barroso in his address to the Council of European Municipalities and Regions today. Speaking on the outcome of the European Council he stressed that "we need to be at the same time firemen and stop the spread of the sovereign debt crisis. But we also need to be architects and build a strong and sustainable recovery on sound foundations. "
European Council 8 – 9 December 2011
"The Commission will be active to ensure swift preparation of a treaty that is fully compatible with EU law."
09/12/2011
Updated 9 December (pm)
After the European Council, President Barroso congratulated the Polish Presidency for its impressive achievements. He said he was "extremely pleased that we have strong conclusions welcoming the Commission's 2012 Annual Growth Survey. This is now our reference for the work in terms of economic policy coordination – the European Semester and all the instruments we now have to coordinate the economic policies in the European Union institutions. Proper implementation is crucial to get us back on the growth path." The EU leaders also agreed to fast-track a programme of measures to boost growth and jobs.
"This discussion was an important complement to last night's agreement on the fiscal compact," President Barroso said. "The objective to add to the strict discipline and reinforced convergence we are already introducing through secondary legislation was achieved. And I want to underline the agreement on substance, the very wide agreement on substance when it comes to reinforced discipline and also reinforced convergence in the euro area and indeed beyond. Work will now begin to rapidly flesh out the details of this new treaty. The Commission will be active to ensure swift preparation of a treaty that is fully compatible with EU law and also that preserves the role of the European institutions."
Important conclusions on energy, notably on the need for swift completion of an EU internal energy market and the development of infrastructure, were also reached in the European Council.
Updated 9 December
We have now an agreement to go forward for a new 'fiscal compact' and strengthened economic policy coordination.
"We have now an agreement to go forward for a new 'fiscal compact' and strengthened economic policy coordination," stated President Barroso at the press conference following the first day of the European Council. He explained that "it is a decision of the Heads of State or Government of the euro area member states and those that decided already to join," and added that now the key is swift implementation. President Barroso also welcomed the Heads of State or Governments' commitment to examine swiftly the new rules proposed by the Commission on 23 November, namely those regarding the monitoring and assessment of draft budgetary plans, of the correction of excessive deficit in the euro area member states and also the strengthening of economic and budgetary surveillance of member states experiencing or threatened with serious difficulties in respect to their financial stability in the euro area.
"It is extremely important that all the EU shows that the euro is irreversible, that we are all supporting it."
The December European Council will focus on reviving the economy, with most attention on stronger economic governance in the euro area and the discussion on possible Treaty change. Energy issues and the prospect of new countries joining the EU will also be on the agenda.
Ahead of the summit, European Council President Van Rompuy sent an interim report on strengthening the economic union, prepared with President Barroso and Eurogroup President Juncker, to the Heads of State and Government. The report sets out options and a possible two-step approach to Treaty change. President Barroso stressed that this European Council needs to take strong decisions that are credible to our citizens, to our international partners and to the markets – and that allow for the creation of a genuine fiscal compact.
President Barroso said: "The Summit that we are going to start tonight in Brussels is indeed a crucial one. What I expect from all Heads of State and Government is they do not come saying what they cannot do, but what they will do for Europe. All the world is watching us. And what the world awaits from us is not more national problems but European solutions. At the core of this crisis there is a problem of confidence and credibility. This is why we in the European Commission support more convergence, more discipline. It is extremely important that we, all together, all the European Union, show that the euro is irreversible and that we are all supporting the euro. And I believe that this is possible. My appeal, my strong appeal to all the Heads of State and Government is to show this commitment to our common currency. I think this is indispensable – and leadership is about making possible what is indispensable."
Watch the press conference after the Informal dinner of members of the European Council
Speech by President Barroso following the informal dinner of the European Council
Statement by the euro area Heads of State of Government
Background information on the Euro Plus Pact [3 MB]
Statement by the euro area heads of state or government [34 KB]
Video: the press conference following the informal dinner of the members of European Council
Signature of the Accession Treaty of Croatia
09/12/2011
"Today's signature of the Accession Treaty is an outstanding moment for the European Union - and for Croatia," said President Barroso, recalling the hard work undertaken by Croatia to meet the strict conditions of the enlargement process. He also underlined the significance of EU enlargement policy, highlighting the positive implications of Croatian accession for other countries in the region – and for the EU as such. The President said: "Today we therefore also send a clear signal to Croatia's neighbours: A signal that our European offer is on the table; that hard work pays off; that the benefits of European integration are within reach if our partners stay the course."
The European People’s Party Congress, Marseille
08/12/2011
President Barroso attended today in Marseille the meeting of the EPP before the European Council. In his speech titled ‘The time for political courage’, he underlined that ‘a strong Europe is a Europe which needs stronger institutions and not a Europe which divides its institutions and its Member States.’ He added that ‘if we don’t build European democracy alongside our national democracies, true sovereignty will be the sovereignty of the markets, without any kind of control ... against European sovereignty and European citizens. So yes to sovereignty, but to shared sovereignty.’
Message of congratulations to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Belgium
06/12/2011
"You are taking the controls of a founding member which helped shaped the European Union of today," President Barroso wrote in his message of congratulations to Mr Elio Di Rupo following his appointment as Belgian Prime Minister. The President expressed his conviction that under Mr Di Rupo’s leadership, Belgium will be able to meet the significant challenges of this extremely difficult period and to "confirm its European commitment".
State of the Innovation Union Convention
05/12/2011
At the first Innovation Convention 2011, President Barroso presented his views on the key role of innovation in contributing to growth, jobs and wellbeing. "Innovation is our European blueprint to get the economy back on track over the course of the decade", he said. He called for smart fiscal consolidation: "Cutting spending in key areas such as innovation, education, research and development would be exactly the wrong cut to do". He also announced the appointment of his Chief scientific adviser, a new position created in the Commission.
Honorary Doctorate for President Barroso
01/12/2011
President Barroso received today an Honoris Causa doctorate from Wroclaw University of Technology, given for his active role in building society based on knowledge and innovation as well as for his determination in overcoming subsequent crises that threaten EU stability. In his lecture, titled "Ever more united we must stand", he stressed that to achieve European renewal, we must stand for our European values by acting and working together. President Barroso said: "More than ever to stand firmly united is our only way forward. This is our future, this is your future."
Meeting with EU Heads of Delegation
01/12/2011
"There are moments in time when history accelerates, when we reach crossroads, when uncertainties are high, when we have to embrace change, overcome the status quo and take critical decisions that will reshape our environment" said President Barroso in the meeting with EU Heads of Delegation. In his speech titled "A Europe for all weathers" he focused on the overcoming of this crisis, which is "our first priority." President Barroso: "This is essential for our economies, for our citizens, for our social model but also for our foreign policy. As you know well the attractiveness of our model, the strength of our currency, and the size of our internal market are Europe's best assets when facing today's world."
Meeting philosophical and non-confessional organisations
30/11/2011
The Presidents of the Commission, Parliament and European Council met representatives of philosophical and non-confessional organisations today to discuss democratic rights and liberties. At the occasion President Barroso stated that "nothing today – really nothing can be taken for granted anymore. I do not need to cite examples to illustrate the real risks that cherished achievements are suddenly put into question and are now threatened by erosion. And whereas we are currently and rightly concentrating lots of energy on maintaining financial stability and restoring confidence in the euro area, it is at least as important that we engage vigorously in maintaining and promoting our values in Europe and world wide. Because without the respect of these values, including our democratic rights and liberties, the rest is not on solid ground."
EU – US Summit, Washington DC, 28 November
"We have reaffirmed our determination to work closely together for the stability of the global economy."
28/11/2011
"We have just reaffirmed our determination to work closely together for the stability of the global economy and for the benefit of our peoples," stated President Barroso after the EU – US Summit. He added that "the way forward in Europe is through more integration." The President said the EU and the US decided to create a High-Level Working Group for Jobs and Growth in order to help ensure that the transatlantic economy can be an engine for the recovery of the world economy. This group will examine how to strengthen the EU-US trade and investment relationship and in so doing boost growth and job creation. "But today’s world is not just about economy," said President Barroso. "It is also about values and standards. The EU and the US share a firm belief in freedom, democracy, human rights, and prosperity. They are the hallmarks of our societies and what binds us together," he concluded.
"Today’s globalised world is not just about economy but also about values and standards."
European Commission President Barroso, together with European Council President Van Rompuy and Vice-President / High Representative Ashton, will attend the EU – US Summit today in Washington DC. The EU leaders will meet US President Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to discuss global economic issues, bilateral relations and opportunities to promote growth and jobs. Foreign policy issues will also be on the agenda, including how best to contribute to the development of democracy and prosperity in the European neighbourhood, including north Africa and the Middle East, as well as the promotion of our common values in other regions of the world.
EU-US Summit in Washington to further strengthen the transatlantic partnership
Meeting with the President of the Ivory Coast
23/11/2011
European Commission President Barroso received the President of the Ivory Coast, Alassane Ouattara. At a joint press conference President Barroso announced support for the country's forthcoming elections, as well as the willingness to help social and economic recovery. The package of €125 million was formally signed today at a ceremony in Brussels. This money will go to five key projects to improve the lives of the Ivorian population, specifically supporting the health service, professional training (especially helping young people to access the job market), transport, civil society and governance.
EU confirms support for elections and long-term recovery in Ivory Coast
Meeting with Mario Monti, Prime Minister of Italy
"Despite huge economic head-winds, Italy is determined to tackle its enormous challenges once and for all."
22/11/2011
"Italy is determined to tackle its enormous challenges once and for all," said President Barroso after the meeting with Italian Prime Minister Monti. He pointed out that Italian's government programme "correctly addresses the challenges faced by Italy - huge, but surmountable challenges." President Barroso stressed that its success will depend on three elements: strict implementation, putting the high government debt on a steadily declining path and increasing the country's growth potential. President Barroso concluded: "I know Mario Monti is a very committed, competent, experienced politician, a very committed Italian and European. I am confident: Italy will pass this difficult test."
Meeting with Prime Minister of Sweden, Fredrik Reinfeldt
21/11/2011
President Barroso met Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt to discuss the economic situation and the preparation of the forthcoming European Council on 9 December. Ahead of the adoption on 23 November of the Annual Growth Survey – the economic priorities for the coming year – President Barroso stressed: "The Annual Growth Survey we publish on Wednesday will not be as positive. Overall, we have seen an unconvincing performance, with many commitments made last year not being implemented fully … the Commission will not shy away from being explicit on where more effort is needed."
The two leaders also discussed the Commission's proposals to strengthen economic governance in the euro area using the existing Treaties, and where necessary, through Treaty change.
Meeting with Greek Prime Minister Lukas Papademos
21/11/2011
President Barroso congratulated Mr Papademos on his appointment as Prime Minister of Greece and stressed that the agreement to form a national unity government, backed by a broad political consensus, is a vital signal of the need for political stability in Greece at this crucial time. He added that "the political determination and resolve are more important than ever to enable Greece to stay the course towards economic reform and renewal." President Barroso also reiterated the Commission's commitment to helping Greece, adding that there are two essential objectives for the coming months: "Firstly, a second programme of financial assistance to Greece for the next three years must be concluded by the end of this year. Secondly, the voluntary bond exchange with private sector investors should take place as planned at the beginning of 2012."
Message to Mariano Rajoy, Spain's Prime Minister-elect
21/11/2011
On behalf of the European Commission, President Barroso congratulated Mariano Rajoy, Spain's Prime Minister-elect. President Barroso said: "You have received clear and strong support from the Spanish people at an important time for both Spain and the European Union. We are confronted with one of the most demanding periods of recent decades and this will require important decisions to be taken. In doing so, I am confident that you will preserve the strong European tradition of the Spanish governments and will actively contribute to the European project. I wish you, your government and Spain every success and look forward to welcoming you very soon in the European Commission."
Social Innovation Conference
18/11/2011
At the Conference "Together to create new growth" President Barroso addressed the role of social business in building responsible and sustainable growth. In his speech, he pointed out that social enterprises "are not only seeking to include people or to share profits more fairly, but that they also create jobs." The President also underlined that "action at EU level can be an accelerator for social business, by raising awareness of this sector and its huge potential. Social businesses are a growing and dynamic part of the European social economy, which represent millions of employees." He added that "the EU can help to foster the sector's further development by reducing the complexities of its regulatory environment, in particular, as regards funding and access to markets."
Meeting with the UK Prime Minister, Rt Hon David Cameron
18/11/2011
President Barroso and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, David Cameron, met today to discuss a range of topics, including the most recent economic and political developments in the European Union. The two leaders also exchanged views on the forthcoming European Council scheduled for the 9th December 2011.
President Barroso and Prime Minister Cameron agreed on the importance of prioritising the decisive action needed to ensure the stability of the euro area as well as fast-tracking measures to stimulate growth and jobs. They both underlined the central importance of further developing the single market to deliver its full growth potential in the interests of businesses and citizens across the Union and especially to help small and medium sized enterprises.
Golden Victoria Award
17/11/2011
President Barroso congratulated Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk for receiving the Golden Victoria "European of the Year 2011" award for his political achievements. In his video message President Barroso, who received this prize last year, shared Donald Tusk's believe that to tackle the crisis we need "more Europe and more integration" and that "the current crisis concerns all Europeans and the EU as a whole". "We must not allow new divisions to emerge" – stressed President Barroso.
Debate on economic governance
"In the future, we will need to go even further on strengthening integration"
16/11/2011
In his speech in the European Parliament on economic governance, President Barroso confirmed that the Commission would bring forward to 23 November the adoption of the 2012 Annual Growth Survey, setting out the EU's policy priorities for growth and jobs for the next 12 to 18 months. "At the same time we will come forward with our proposals on further strengthening the economic governance of the euro," he said. "We are indeed now facing a truly systemic crisis that requires an even stronger commitment from all", the President added. "In the future, we will need to go even further on strengthening integration. And this will require Treaty changes. And let me be clear: I am in favour of Treaty change if it is to reinforce the European Union, the Community method, the European institutions and the sense of common purpose."
The President underlined that the euro is a central part of the European Union, "not something separate or apart. The euro is not an opt-out from the EU. This is why we should implement the Community approach when we deal with the euro. We will not make the euro stronger through fragmentation of the European Union", he stressed.
Video - Full Statement by President Barroso on economic governance
The best response to the crisis: a strong and unified Europe
14/11/2011
Speaking at the Gulbenkian Foundation (in Paris), President Barroso called for a strong and unified Europe to overcome the crisis. ‘We have established a unified euro area, but we have largely maintained an intergovernmental method to manage it. This is a contradiction that we are currently moving beyond,’ he said, adding that Europe ‘is not an abstract project. It is the daily reality of 500 million Europeans who share common values and interests’.
Decision on Mario Monti to lead the next Italian government
13/11/2011
In a joint statement the European Commission President Barroso and the European Council President Van Rompuy welcomed the decision by the President of the Italian Republic to ask Senator Mario Monti to form a government of national unity. In their statement the Presidents wrote: "We believe that it sends a further encouraging signal – following the swift adoption of the 2012 Stability Law – of the Italian authorities' determination to overcome the current crisis. As agreed at the Euro Summit on 26 October, the Commission will continue to monitor the implementation of measures taken by Italy with the aim of pursuing policies that foster growth and employment."
European higher education: An engine for growth and jobs
11/11/2011
President Barroso attended the Jean Monnet Conference at the University of Lisbon, where the main theme of the conference was "Higher Education in the Framework of the Europe 2020 Strategy". In his speech President Barroso stressed that education, research and innovation are at the very heart of the Europe 2020 strategy, the European blueprint to get the economy back on track over the course of the decade. The President underlined that through their activities in education, research and innovation, Europe's higher education institutions have the talent, the creativity and the expertise necessary to successfully contribute to Europe's economic growth, job creation and world-wide influence. "In today's globalised world education, research and innovation will make the difference; it has to be our competitive edge," concluded the President.
Congratulations to the Irish President Michael D. Higgins
11/11/2011
President Barroso congratulated Mr Michael D. Higgins, President of Ireland, on his inauguration. President Barroso said: "You are taking office at an important time, as Ireland takes resolute action to address difficult economic circumstances and in doing so, is setting an example for other countries facing similar challenges. I look forward to meeting you during the Irish presidency of the European union in 2013. Guím gach rath ort le linn do thréimhse mar uachtarán na héireann."
Statement on the designation of a new Greek Prime Minister
10/11/2011
European Commission President Barroso and European Council President Van Rompuy warmly welcomed the agreement on a national unity government, which they said opens a new chapter for Greece: "It is important for Greece's new government to send a strong cross-party message of reassurance to its European partners that it is committed to doing what it takes to set its debt on a steady downward path. Fiscal consolidation should go hand in hand with the structural reforms needed to transform Greece's growth potential and generate the jobs its people so urgently need. We reiterate that our European Institutions will continue to do everything within their power to help Greece. But Greece must also do everything within its power to help itself."
The State of Europe - Die Europa-Rede, Berlin
"The European Union and the euro area belong together."
09/11/2011
President Barroso spoke at the "Berliner Europa-Rede", a strong appeal for deeper integration, unity and democracy. “Provided there is the political will, the greatest emerging power in the world will be the European Union,” said the President. "The challenge is how to further deepen Euro area integration without creating divisions with those who are not yet in it. A split union will not work. The Treaties define the euro area as the core of the EU. Deepening convergence and integration of the European Union must also involve deeper democracy. The agenda for Europe must be a positive one. It must not be a reluctant intervention to avoid the worst, but an enthusiastic plan to create the best.”
Message to the Polish Prime Minister, Mr Tusk
09/11/2011
On behalf of the European Commission, President Barroso congratulated Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, Mr Donald Tusk, on his designation as the Prime Minister with a task to form a new coalition government. President Barroso stated: "I am fully aware that the coming weeks, associated with approving the new government, will be challenging for you. Consolidating public finances, boosting growth, cooperating with our neighbours, shaping social policy and, last but not least, rebuilding confidence in the European project – these are the challenges which Member States and European Institutions have to face in union."
Meeting with European Parliament President, Mr Jerzy Buzek
09/11/2011
President Barroso and the College on Wednesday welcomed European President Jerzy Buzek to the European Commission. During a working lunch the Presidents and the College discussed the following issues: the importance of the Community method in eurozone economic governance; accelerating measures (economic governance, single market act); the Commission Work Programme 2012 and the negotiations around the Multiannual Financial Framework and 2012 EU Budget.
Meeting with Prime Minister of Iceland, Ms Sigurðardóttir
08/11/2011
President Barroso met the Prime Minister of Iceland, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir today. The two leaders discussed the state of play in Iceland's EU accession negotiations. President Barroso noted the progress made, stressing that "the accession talks so far reflect a solid achievement. The European Commission wants to continue this work under an ambitious and realistic timetable." The global economic situation, including the developments in the eurozone and Iceland's economy, were also discussed.
European Newspaper Publishers Association Conference
08/11/2011
In the keynote speech to the European Newspaper Publishers Association - 50th Anniversary Congress, President Barroso underlined that "freedom of expression and the freedom of the press are two non-negotiable freedoms that lie at the very heart of our democratic societies." The President added that these two freedoms "are essential core values of the European Union" and that the Commission would continue to defend them vigorously.
Meeting with representatives from the world of culture
07/11/2011
President Barroso will meet a group of European personalities from the world of culture on 8 November. They will discuss the challenges that the cultural sector is facing and the way this sector can contribute to the image of Europe. President Barroso said: “In these challenging times when all our efforts are focused on how to boost Europe's competitiveness, growth and jobs creation and on how to overcome the crisis, we can't forget how essential culture is to forge our common destiny to which all our efforts refer. Vital sector of our economy, culture is also a cornerstone of Europe's soul and identity: both are indispensable to our further development.”
European People's Party conference
07/11/2011
President Barroso gave a keynote speech at the European People's Party conference: Securing the future of the Euro through deeper economic integration. In his speech "Stability for growth- the future of the Euro" President Barroso stressed the importance of the deeper economic integration for the future of the European Union.
Meeting with the President of Cyprus' House of Representatives
07/11/2011
President Barroso welcomed to the European Commission the President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus, Mr Yiannakis Omirou. During the meeting President Barroso and President Omirou discussed the current economic situation in Cyprus and the forthcoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council in the second half of 2012. They also touched upon the recent developments in the Cyprus settlement process.
G20 Summit, Cannes, 3-4th November 2011
"We need global governance and cooperation for problems that are of a global nature"
04/11/2011
(updated the 4th November)
In his statement following the G20 Summit, President Barroso reaffirmed the EU's determination to continue to do what it takes to preserve the stability of the Euro. He sent a clear message that the EU "remains fully committed to support Greece, as a member of our European family". While recognising the right of Greece to decide on its own future, President Barroso stressed that the country should demonstrate commitment to the decisions that it has itself subscribed to. The President welcomed Italy's initiative to ask the IMF and the Commission to monitor the implementation of its commitments. President Barroso emphasised that ensuring "the credibility of the efforts of all EU Member States is important, not only for the European but also for the global stability." The President welcomed the G20 leaders' agreement to increase the global firewall against contagion by looking into options to bolster IMF resources, and to make further progress with the Doha agenda. He reaffirmed the EU's determination to go ahead with a financial transaction tax at EU level and to work with the other G20 members towards a global financial transaction tax.
We are determined to implement all the elements of our comprehensive approach to ensure the stability of the Euro area
In a statement following the first day of the G20 Summit in Cannes, President Barroso stated that "Europe is fully aware of its responsibility in these difficult times." He outlined once again the key elements of the comprehensive response to overcome the crisis and confirmed the EU's commitment to implement these measures very rapidly. President Barroso reiterated that Greece should "remain in the euro" and called for national and political unity in the country which is "essential so that the hope of a better future can be given to the Greek people". The President recognised that the world economy faces major challenges, and international cooperation is the only way out to address them. In this context he called on each and every member of the G20 to implement their commitments.
Statement by President Barroso following the G20 Summit
Message to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Latvia
03/11/2011
President Barroso congratulated Mr Valdis Dombrovskis, Prime Minister of the Republic of Latvia, on his re-appointment. "Your appointment for a third term in office pays tribute to the leadership and responsibility you have undertaken in challenging times," stated President Barroso and added that by "successfully completing the economic stabilisation and recovery programme, Latvia can become a true example of economic turnaround achieved by decisive action."
Message to the President-elect of Bulgaria, Mr Plevneliev
01/11/2011
President Barroso sent his warmest congratulations to Mr Rossen Plevneliev, President-elect of Bulgaria. In his message President Barroso wrote: "You have received the confidence of the Bulgarian people at an important time for both Bulgaria and the European Union. I am confident that you will actively contribute to the European debate and preserve Bulgaria's strong defence of European Integration. I wish you every success during your Presidency and look forward to welcoming you very soon in the European Commission."
Statement on Cyprus
28/10/2011
In a statement ahead of the meeting of United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon with the leaders of the two communities in Cyprus, Christofias and Eroglu, on 30-31 October in New York, President Barroso said: "After more than three years of settlement talks time has come to close all outstanding core issues. All Cypriots and the European Union will benefit of a united Cyprus." He added that "the European Commission expects the New York meeting to produce tangible results, paving the way for the final phase of the process. I am following very closely the whole process. I would like to call on both leaders to grasp the opportunity to reach a comprehensive settlement now. The two leaders and the United Nations can continue to count on the European Commission's full support for their historic endeavour."
European Council and Euro area summit, 26 October 2011
"The package agreed tonight confirms that Europe will do what it takes to safeguard financial stability"
27/10/2011
"The package we have agreed tonight is a comprehensive package that confirms that Europe will do what it takes to safeguard financial stability," said President Barroso after the meeting of the Heads of State or Government of the euro area. In his statement he also thoroughly presented the conclusions which leaders have adopted. He stressed that at the G20 summit in Cannes next week the EU will be able to show to its partners in the G20 that Europe is able to make "an agreement to conclude measures to restore confidence in the European banking sector; ensuring the adequate firewalls; accelerating our ambitious agenda for growth; and further strengthening economic surveillance and coordination. To show are partners and our citizens that we are ready to complete our monetary union with a true economic union."
Euro Summit Statement, 26 October 2011
Statement of EU Heads of State of Government, 26 October 2011
Presentation of the outcome of the European Council at the EP
Presentation of the outcome of the European Council at the EP
27/10/2011
Referring to the summit meetings of the European Council and the euro area of 23 and 26 October 2011, President Barroso explained the bold decisions taken over the last days based on the Commission's Roadmap to Stability and Growth of 12 October. "Today we have a more ambitious platform on which to build Europe's growth" he said. He outlined the details of the agreement on Greece, the leveraging of the EFSF by four or five times, the measures to restore confidence in the banking sector as well as concrete ways to boost growth. In this context he expressed satisfaction about Italy's commitment to further structural reforms, while emphasising the need to fully implement them according to a clear timetable. He also announced a Commission package of proposals for November in order to further deepen Europe's economic governance. He was pleased with the strengthened role of the Commission in monitoring and coordinating economic and budgetary policies in Europe and ensuring coherence between the euro area and the other EU members. He informed about his intention to reinforce the role of Olli Rehn as Commissioner for the euro. President Barroso repeated his call for building a true economic union to complement a monetary union including – if needed – through Treaty change, while ensuring the unity of all Member States. With a view to next week's G20 summit in Cannes, he underlined that a Europe that is determined, responsible and united will strive to lead the global crisis response. "Europe will push for an ambitious action plan of all G20 members that can address the challenges and imbalances that are still hindering growth at the global level" and concluded by stressing that he intends to present the proposal for a financial transaction tax at the G20 summit. "I believe that the protest movements we have witnessed in recent weeks, from Madrid to Manhattan, show that this is the kind of action people expect from their leaders – to ensure that the financial sector contributes to society."
Meeting with Romanian President Traian Băsescu
25/10/2011
President Barroso today met the Romanian President, Traian Băsescu, to discuss pressing issues on the agenda ahead of tomorrow's European summits. "The economic crisis has a strong impact on people's standard of living. Just a little more than 24 hours before the European Council and the follow-up Euro area summit, let me repeat that we are working on solid and convincing solutions to deliver tomorrow a comprehensive package for stability and growth. It is time to end the uncertainty," said President Barroso, adding that "one of the key elements of the comprehensive package is growth enhancing reforms". The Presidents also discussed the accession of Romania to Schengen where President Barroso reiterated the Commission's support for the country to join the Schengen area: "We consider that Romania has met all the necessary requirements, so to have Romania in Schengen is a matter of fairness."
Message to the Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
25/10/2011
President Barroso congratulated Mr Awn Al Khasawneh, Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, on his appointment as the new Prime Minister of Jordan. He said: "The European Union views Jordan as a key partner in the region and I look forward to cooperating with you, Prime Minister, and your government with the objective to develop further our relationship in the framework of the European Neighbourhood Policy 'advanced status' partnership."
European Council and Euro area summit, 23 October 2011
"We expect final decisions to be taken in 72 hours and I am confident these decisions are going to be taken"
23/10/2011
"We want the Union to stay very strong," said President Barroso at the press conference following the European Council, while at the same time recognising that more needs to be done in terms of "coherence and integration in the governance of the euro area". The President also sent a clear message to the European Council that "the EU can and must do much more to deliver growth." He stressed that "without growth our citizens will not be confident in their future and in the future of the economies in Europe" and outlined how "we can make the crisis an opportunity for renewal." President Barroso reiterated that "decisive action this week is essential if the EU is to continue to credibly lead the global response at the G20 in Cannes."
President Barroso announced "the agreement to disburse the European contribution to the next tranche of financial assistance to Greece." He emphasised that "an ambitious reform of the EFSF is an essential element in fighting contagion." President Barroso welcomed the good progress that was made on coordinated measures to ease bank funding and to ensure banks have significantly higher levels of capital. He remains confident that final decisions on all the elements of the comprehensive response will be taken on Wednesday.
Link to the Communication - Roadmap for Stability and Growth [39 KB]
Statement by President Barroso following the European Council
Sources of growth [2 MB]
Condolences following the earthquake in Southeast Turkey
23/10/2011
President Barroso and President Van Rompuy expressed their condolences following the earthquake in Southeast Turkey. They said: "We are greatly saddened by the news of the terrible earthquake that has struck the Van province in Southeast Turkey. Our thoughts are with the injured and the families of the victims and we should like to convey our condolences to the people and authorities of Turkey."
High Level Conference on the Multiannual Financial Framework
21/10/2011
The two-day high-level conference on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020, bringing together national parliamentarians, ministers and other stakeholders with representatives of the EU institutions, concluded with a convergence of views on many key issues, while showing the need to continue a broad dialogue on the basis of the Commission's proposals. Participants stressed that such an event represented a unique opportunity to have a debate with all key players on such an important issue as future EU budgets.
In his opening speech President Barroso welcomed the many key figures from Member States, national parliaments, EU institutions and stakeholders who participate in this event - co-organised by the Commission, the Polish Council Presidency and the EP. He called on the forthcoming European Council to take decisive and immediate action on all aspects of the roadmap presented by the Commission last week, notably the leveraging of the EFSF. He then stressed that the EU cannot solve this crisis without sowing the seeds for sustainable and job-creating growth and emphasised that investments at European level can make an important contribution to that, in particular in an austerity context. He called for changing the ways of financing the EU budget, namely through new own resources like the Financial Transaction Tax. In the conclusion he made it clear that the EU budget is not money for Brussels, but for young people, researchers, and others and called on participants to make the case for Europe and not give in to populism.
Opening remarks of President Barroso of 20 October -A Partnership for Progress - A Budget for Growth
Video, President Barroso at High Level conference on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)
Conference on the EU Financial Framework 2014-2020
Reforming the budget, changing Europe
Closing remarks of Vice President Šefčovič of 21 October
Brochure "Basic Guide to the Multiannual Financial Framework" (available in all languages)
Launch of the two first satellites of the Galileo Programme
21/10/2011
Today Europe launched the first two Galileo satellites at 12h34 CET from Kourou, French Guiana, with a Soyuz launcher to reach their orbit at 23.000 kilometres. President Barroso described the launch as a major step for Europe and its citizens. President Barroso stressed that it is "of strategic importance, not only for the competitiveness of our industry and for job creation, but also to ensure Europe's independence in space technology and policy." The President also explained that "Galileo is also an investment in Europe's industrial future and competitiveness: it will benefit companies ranging from shipping, fleet management, finance, electricity and telecommunications, with an overall impact estimated at 90 billion euros over the 20 years. The Commission has proposed a budget of 7 billion euro for Galileo between 2014 and 2020.
Press release: Galileo: Europe launches its first satellites for smart navigation system
Read more: Galileo will boost economy and make life of citizens easier
Meeting with President of Uruguay, Jose Mujica Cordano
20/10/2011
President Barroso met today Uruguayan President Mujica and both agreed that Uruguay the EU attach great importance to strengthening cooperation between MERCOSUR and the EU through the Association Agreement.
Statement on the reported death of Muammar Gaddafi
20/10/2011
In a joint statement President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso and President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy said: "The reported death of Muammar Gaddafi marks the end of an era of despotism and repression from which the Libyan people have suffered for too long. Today Libya can turn a page in its history and embrace a new democratic future. We call on the National Transitional Council to pursue a broad based reconciliation process which reaches out to all Libyans and enables a democratic, peaceful and transparent transition in the country."
Connecting Europe Facility
"Connecting Europe Facility and the Project Bond Initiative are a perfect demonstration of the value added that Europe can provide."
19/10/2011
The European Commission adopted today a plan for a €50 billion boost to Europe's transport, energy and digital networks. Targeted investments in key infrastructures will help to create jobs and boost Europe's competitiveness at a time when Europe needs this most. At this opportunity President Barroso stated: "The Connecting Europe Facility and the Project Bond Initiative are a perfect demonstration of the added value that Europe can provide. These proposals will help to build the roads, railways, energy grids and pipelines, and broadband networks that are so important to our citizens and businesses. We are closing the missing links in Europe's infrastructure networks that otherwise would not be built. This investment will generate growth and jobs and at the same time make work and travel easier for millions of European citizens and businesses". 'Connecting Europe Facility' will also make Europe's economy greener by promoting cleaner transport modes, high speed broadband connections and facilitating the use of renewable energy in line with the Europe 2020 Strategy.
Communication - A growth package for integrated European infrastructures [46 KB]
Guidelines for trans-European telecommunication networks [318 KB]
Press release on Connecting Europe Facility
A pilot for Europe 2020 Project Bond Initiative
Digital Agenda: Commission proposes over €9 billion for broadband investment
Statement by President Barroso at the press conference on Connecting Europe Facility
Farewell ceremony of Jean-Claude Trichet, ECB, Frankfurt
19/10/2011
President Barroso attended the farewell ceremony of Jean-Claude Trichet, the President of the ECB, in Frankfurt, Germany. In his statement President Barroso underlined that the euro is one of the major achievements of the European project and that it defines European integration. "Many have contributed to this, but the European Central Bank has been centre-stage throughout its development. In his statement President Barroso described President Trichet as "a man of intellect, a man of vision, but also a man of action, who has played a decisive role in defending the independence of the ECB and strengthening financial stability." He welcomed President Trichet's successor Mario Draghi, adding that "both he and the ECB will retain the full confidence of the Commission." Just a few days ahead of a crucial European Council meeting, the President used the opportunity to discuss the Commission's proposal for a Roadmap to Stability and Growth with key interlocutors in the margins of the event.
Tripartite social summit
17/10/2011
After the Tripartite social summit President Barroso said: "The message that we received both from the business side and the trade union side is to do whatever is necessary to protect the financial stability of the euro zone, to restore confidence in the euro zone and in the European Union." President Barroso stressed that "we have launched a young opportunities initiative and I have asked social partners, especially the business community, to back it enthusiastically," and added that "it is important that all make a contribution."
Official visit to France
14/10/2011
President Barroso met the French Prime Minister, François Fillon, and gave a speech on economic integration at the Union for a Popular Movement's (UMP's) parliamentary sitting days in Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire. The meeting with the Prime Minister presented an opportunity to discuss preparations for the European Council on 23 October and other current issues. President Barroso then had a working meeting with the President of the French Republic, Nicolas Sarkozy, in Paris. The meeting gave President Barroso the opportunity to present the Commission’s roadmap for dealing with the economic crisis and the preparations for the European Council on 23 October.
Official visit to Bulgaria
14/10/2011
After the meeting with Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, President Barroso stressed that he hopes that agreement can be found at the European Council on the 23rd October on decisive action towards comprehensive crisis response. The President reiterated the Commission's unequivocal support for Bulgaria joining the Schengen area and encouraged the Prime Minister to continue the reform efforts in the areas of judicial reform, the fight against corruption and organised crime. He also praised the high levels of support for the European Union in Bulgaria.
Friends of Europe Roundtable
13/10/2011
The 23/10 European Council is about ensuring "the political will is there to deliver a decisive essential compromise and concrete decisions," President Barroso said today. Citing Latvia and Ireland as countries whose economies grew during austerity “the Commission does not believe that cut-backs are the solution to Europe’s challenges. But, yes, sound public finances are an essential part of sustainable growth." We must continue to invest in people and infrastructure, while the Single Market is “the goldmine Europe cannot turn its back to."
Meeting with the Danish Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt
13/10/2011
The meeting between President Barroso and Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt focused mainly on the forthcoming European Council. After the meeting President Barroso stated: "We agreed that we need to deliver a solution to break the vicious circle between doubts over the sustainability of sovereign debt, the stability of the banking system and the EU's growth prospects." He reiterated that the roadmap to stability and growth, presented yesterday, "sets out five interdependent elements which must be implemented together and as quickly as possible". The President also expressed that "Denmark with its new government will continue the longstanding tradition of a constructive and valuable Danish contribution to Europe's progress and during the Presidency and beyond Denmark will contribute to the European spirit which we need very badly in our Union."
Meeting with Irish Prime Minister Taoiseach Kenny
13/10/2011
President Barroso met Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Kenny to discuss economic issues ahead of the European Council on 23 October. After the meeting President Barroso said: "We believe that we have to be stronger in our response; I believe in a decisive, comprehensive response." President Barroso outlined that "it is of critical importance to agree on stronger community approach with European institutions working in close cooperation with the member states shaping the future of our Union."
Roadmap to stability and growth
"This roadmap charts Europe's way out of the economic crisis."
12/10/2011
European Commission President Barroso today presented a roadmap to stability and growth. In his speech to the European Parliament he underlined that "to break the vicious cycle of uncertainty over sovereign debt sustainability and over growth prospects, we need comprehensive solutions now." The President reiterated that, as he promised in his State of the Union address two weeks ago, "today we are delivering." He said: "The Commission has just adopted a roadmap to stability and growth. And we have set out concrete terms and timelines to implement it."
Link to the Communication Roadmap for Stability and Growth [39 KB]
Meeting with Mr Andris Berzins, President of Latvia
12/10/2011
President Barroso today met with Andris Berzins, President of Latvia. They discussed the economic situation in the European Union and in Latvia in particular. The Presidents also addressed the next Multiannual Financial Framework and aspects of particular interest to Latvia, notably the Commission's recently presented proposals for the future of cohesion and agricultural policy.
Presidents on the recent political developments in Slovakia
12/10/2011
Presidents Barroso and Van Rompuy made a statement on the recent political developments in Slovakia, stressing that "we remain confident that the Slovak authorities and the Parliament are fully aware of the critical importance of an enhanced and more flexible EFSF to preserve financial stability in the euro area. And that is in the interest of all euro countries, including the Slovak people. Our common currency plays a crucial role in investment decisions, in growth, in jobs. This is about the prosperity of us all." The Presidents call upon "all parties in the Slovak Parliament to rise above the positioning of short term politics, and seize the next occasion to ensure a swift adoption of the new agreement."
Meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte
11/10/2011
President Barroso today met the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, to discuss matters of the greatest importance for the euro area and for the future of the European Union. "I exchanged with the Prime Minister some of the ideas we are now developing for the governance in the euro area and also some measures to address the current situation," stated President Barroso. He explained that an important point they discussed "was the problem of governance in the euro area. We need stronger governance, we need more discipline." President Barroso underlined: "We need integration and discipline."
G20 Summit: Letter by Presidents Barroso and Van Rompuy
"We need to make this a Summit that restores confidence, supports growth and job creation, and maintains financial stability"
10/10/2011
President Barroso together with European Council President Van Rompuy sent a letter to the other members of the European Council in order to share their views on the key issues of the G20 summit in Cannes on 3-4 November 2011. In the letter they expressed their hope that these orientations will serve as a good basis for our preparatory exchange of views at the October European Council meeting. They called for a "renewed collective G20 spirit" and stressed that "the fact that France holds the G20 Presidency this year gives Europe a special responsibility. We need to make the Cannes Summit a G20 Summit that restores confidence, supports sustainable growth and job creation, and maintains financial stability".
Speech at the Jean Monnet Foundation in Lausanne, Switzerland
10/10/2011
‘It is during the most demanding times that Europe has always found the way forward towards integration’, President Barroso recalled on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Jean Monnet Foundation in Lausanne. He said that ‘according to Jean Monnet, “people only accept change when they are compelled to, and they only accept constraint during a crisis”. And what is needed right now is a stronger Europe, and leadership means we make possible what is needed.’
9th Open Days
10/10/2011
President Barroso delivered a speech on European cohesion policy at the opening of the 2011 Open Days. He appealed to European leaders to explain in their region and in their country how important this regional and cohesion policy is, underlining that the money invested through this policy "is not money for Brussels; it is money for the regions of Europe. It is money for the workers of Europe, money for the farmers, all those who want to have a future in Europe, money for the citizens of Europe, money for those who are unemployed and those who are afraid of being unemployed." He concluded by stressing that "this is the appeal I want to make to you so that we can work with our Member States and explain that there is no excess of regional policy in Europe, there is no excess of cohesion in Europe, there is no excess of Europe, on contrary what we need in Europe is more solidarity, more responsibility. We need in fact more Europe."
Live YouTube/Euronews Interview with President Barroso
"I will ask all G20 leaders to support a global financial transaction tax, part of which could go to the poorest people in the world"
06/10/2011
As part of the YouTube World View series of interviews with world leaders President Barroso participated today in a live Interview, broadcasted in 11 languages. Economic issues dominated the top questions. The most popular question was about what went wrong in Greece and how to boost the Greek economy. President Barroso answered that "One country – like one family or like one company – can not live long time above its means. And Greece was doing precisely that." He also underlined that in the future there will be more integration of national budget and economic plans and also sanctions for those who do not comply with the rules. The President once again reiterated that we need a financial transaction tax so banks make a fair contribution to the costs of crisis and indicated that revenue from the tax could be used to fund development aid. The interview was live transmitted on http://www.youtube.com/worldview, Europe by Satellite and Euronews TV
Visit of Finnish Prime Minister Mr Jyrki Katainen
06/10/2011
President Barroso and Finnish Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen discussed the pressing issues on the economic agenda, ahead of the European Council on 17-18 October. President Barroso pointed to Finland as an example of economic reform, saying "Finland has shown to all of us that it is possible to turn a crisis into an opportunity. That is exactly what we are doing now in Europe and I believe that we will succeed."
Meeting with the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel
"Europe cannot be successful without Germany, and I also believe that Germany cannot be successful without Europe"
05/10/2011
Together with the College, President Barroso received Chancellor Merkel today. At the subsequent press point President Barroso stressed that "only through European renewal, only with more Europe, with more committed European Union leadership we can build confidence in our common capacity to act," and underlined that "renewal requires leadership and determination. That is why we need to say without ambiguity 'yes' to a more united Europe, with strong Community institutions, working in close, loyal partnership with our Member States … The contribution of Germany remains decisive". He also announced that together with Chancellor Merkel he will push for a global financial transaction tax at the G20 Summit in November.
5th EU – Brazil Summit
04/10/2011
At the end of the 5th EU-Brazil Summit, where a new Joint Action Plan for the next three years was adopted, President Barroso stressed that "the EU and Brazil are natural strategic partners sharing common values and objectives"."We are both convinced that the EU and Mercosur can generate extraordinary political and economic gains for our two regions," he said and explained that the EU is already Brazil's main trading partner and the main investor in Brazil. Mercosur is the destination for more direct European investment than Russia, China and India put together.
Read the President's speech after the summit (in Portuguese)
Full speech from the EU-Brazil Business Summit (in Portuguese)
Congratulations to the Danish Prime Minister Thorning-Schmidt
03/10/2011
On behalf of the European Commission President Barroso expressed his warmest congratulations to Ms Helle Thorning-Schmidt, newly appointed Danish Prime Minister. "Your Government takes office in one of the most demanding periods of recent decades. The economic situation is of grave concern and promoting stability and a return to sustainable growth must remain top of the European Union's agenda in the coming months and years," stated President Barroso and added that "Denmark has an important contribution to bring here."
EU- Eastern Partnership Summit, Warsaw
30/09/2011
"This meeting confirmed that Eastern Partnership remains a credible framework to strengthen and deepen the relations between the EU and its Eastern partners and at the same time to help them on the path towards economic and political reforms," explained President Barroso after the EU-Eastern Partnership Summit. The President stressed that the "essence of European Union's neighbourhood policy is closely linked to the promotion of democracy, human rights, pluralism, social justice, good governance and the rule of law."
College of Europe – Start of the 2011-2012 academic year
29/09/2011
"After reconciliation, after reunification, I think that, for Europe, now is the time for renewal. Now is the time for a new federative impetus, for Europe to assert itself, based on a component that has too often been lacking recently: confidence," outlined President Barroso in his speech, while presenting the challenges Europe is facing now. "Let us not hesitate to defend the strength and unity of Europe, let us not hesitate to have confidence in ourselves," he stressed.
State of the Union Address 2011
"Make your voice heard. Submit your question until 5 October."
28/09/2011
Citizens can directly address the President as part of YouTube's World View series with world leaders. Everybody can submit questions in their own language and vote on the questions until 5 October. On 6 October at 10 a.m. CET, President Barroso will answer the top questions in a live interview, which will be broadcast on http://www.youtube.com/worldview, Europe by Satellite http://ec.europa.eu/avservices/ebs/schedule.cfm?page=3&date=10/06/2011&institution=0 and Euronews TV http://www.euronews.net/
Click here for more information: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pU05h_PorY
‘This is a financial, economic and social crisis. I believe we can say that the sovereign debt crisis today is, above all, a crisis of political confidence,’ said President Barroso in his annual State of the Union Address 2011 titled "European Renewal". President Barroso stressed that there are solutions to the crisis, which he later also presented. He outlined that "today, the Commission adopted a proposal for the Financial Transaction Tax," and added that the banking sector should also make a contribution to society. President Barroso concluded: ‘The reality today is that intergovernmental cooperation is not enough to get Europe out of this crisis, nor to provide a future for Europe.’
70th birthday of Dr. E. Stoiber, Munich
28/09/2011
President Barroso attended the birthday event of Dr. Edmund Stoiber, chairman of the Commission's High Level Group on the reduction of administrative burdens. In his speech, delivered in German, he praised Mr Stoiber's work and his European commitment.
Statement on Nuclear Safety: EU response to Fukushima accident
22/09/2011
In his speech at the high-level meeting on nuclear safety, President Barroso focused on the EU response to the accident at Fukushima, and welcomed the United Nations' initiative for a global, comprehensive reflection on nuclear safety issues. President Barroso underlined that the EU "supports tighter international rules for safe and sustainable use of nuclear energy, and we have, in our own realm, taken the lead on this."
Statement on the agreement on economic governance
"This agreement gives the EU and its Member States a powerful tool to avoid falling into the trap of unsustainable debt"
20/09/2011
A year after the Commission presented a package of six legislative proposals to strengthen the economic governance of the European Union and of the euro area in particular, an agreement has been finalised. Pending formal endorsement by the European Parliament and the Council, this will allow the package to enter into force. "This is excellent news for Europe," stressed President Barroso. He added: "This agreement gives the EU and its Member States a powerful tool – one missing until now – to avoid falling into the trap of unsustainable debt." His statement also outlined the other benefits arising from the agreement.
Statement by President Barroso following the agreement on the economic governance package
Speech at the Leaders' Dialogue on Climate Change
20/09/2011
"We do not have much time, but it is crucial that we maintain the momentum of Cancun," stated President Barroso in New York and continued: "The EU is willing to consider a second commitment period – but only as part of a broader package. A package that improves Kyoto rules; that creates new market mechanisms; and in which other major emitters also commit to doing their fair share."
66th UN General Assembly, New York, 20 – 23 September 2011
19/09/2011
President Barroso will together with European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, High-Representative/Vice-President Ashton, and Commissioners Piebalgs, Dalli, Georgieva and Hedegaard attend the 66th UN General Assembly. He will hold bilateral meetings and participate in a number of high-level events on climate change, nuclear safety, Libya and sustainable consumption. The EU's statement at the General debate will be delivered for the first time by the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy.
Read more on the 66th UN General Assembly: EU high level presence in New York
EU – South Africa Summit
"South Africa is a key partner for the European Union"
15/09/2011
"Few nations embody the great global shifts of our time better than South Africa. Nelson Mandela represents the importance of upholding universal values and the power of building bridges as a way to bring those values to life," said President Barroso at the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory. He stressed South Africa's peaceful transformation and described the good relations between EU and South Africa. The President also reassured all those who stand for freedom in Africa that "the European Union stands with you as your partner," and concluded his address with Mandela's words: "It always seems impossible until it is done."
President Barroso described the Summit as "a testimony of the excellent relations between the EU and South Africa". During this event, bilateral issues and matters of global relevance, like the next G20 Summit and the fight against climate change, were discussed. President Barroso: "We have been able to tackle issues of common interest in a spirit of friendship and mutual understanding, while continuing to deepen and broaden as well our cooperation."
EP debate on the economic crisis and the euro
"This is a fight for the economic and political future of Europe. This is a fight for European integration itself."
14/09/2011
Addressing the European Parliament, President Barroso made remarks on the current economic situation and the euro and set out the Commissions' view for the way ahead. He recalled that "solid, feasible and concrete proposals have been made" which now need to be implemented, and pointed out that the "only right way to stop the negative cycle and to strengthen the euro is to deepen integration, namely within the Euro area, based on the Community method". He stressed that a new, unifying impulse – 'un nouveau moment fédérateur' is indispensable" and confirmed that "the Commission will soon present options for the introduction of Eurobonds."
Meeting with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi
13/09/2011
President Barroso met with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in Strasbourg on 13 September. Their discussion focused on the economic situation in the euro area and in Italy in particular. The President welcomed Italy's commitment to balance its budget by 2013 and urged rapid, effective and rigorous implementation of the latest measures. Both leaders also agreed on the need to further strengthen Europe's economic governance.
Meeting with the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Angela Merkel
"To have success we need more, not less, Europe."
12/09/2011
Today, President Barroso met Chancellor Merkel to take stock of the situation in the Euro area. Both agreed about the extraordinary importance of the euro for Europe and Germany and on the fact that stability and growth in the euro area member states are an essential precondition for a stable euro. Both also affirmed that the approval procedures for the enhanced EFSF should be concluded by end of September. After the meeting, President Barroso said: "The Euro is, and remains, a real asset for both Germany and the EU as a whole, and Germans have much more to gain than to lose from their contribution to the 'Rettungsschirm'. Help can only continue to those who make all efforts to bring their house in order. Like Germany, the Commission is working for the EU to emerge from the crisis stronger, as a Stability Union and as a Growth Union. To have success we need more, not less, Europe. Deeper integration is part of the solution to prevent debt crises in the future. It will not happen overnight, but it will happen, in a steadfast, democratic process. What both the citizens and the markets want, is political determination and economic discipline. This is what the EU needs to deliver."
Statement of President Barroso after his meeting with Chancellor Merkel in Berlin
The 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the US
09/09/2011
On the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the United States President Barroso and President Van Rompuy stated:" Today, Europe honours the victims and expresses its solidarity with those who lost their loved ones in these and all other terrorist attacks", and added that "Europe stands shoulder to shoulder with our friends and allies in the global fight against terrorist networks and their economic backbone."
Official visits to Australia and New Zealand, 4-9 September
"The European Union – a committed partner for New Zealand and the Pacific."
08/09/2011
After receiving an honorary Doctorate of Law from Auckland University on Thursday, President Barroso delivered the University's annual Europa lecture on the topic of "The European Union a committed partner for New Zealand and the Pacific". The President stated his intention of ensuring the European Union steps up its bilateral relationship with New Zealand when the current Joint Declaration comes under review in 2012, and his belief that the EU and Pacific nations will enjoy increasingly deep relationships in coming years.
President Barroso also addressed and took questions from a large audience at the New Zealand - Europe Business Council in Auckland. The President congratulated New Zealanders for being "egalitarian, environmental and entrepreneurial" and expressed admiration for New Zealand's competitiveness and successful green growth. "The European Union wants to do business with you. We want to remain a top tier trading partner."
President Barroso’s keynote address to the 40th Pacific Islands Forum in Auckland included €26 million in new funding to combat climate change and promote development. “If we want to alleviate poverty and boost prosperity in the Pacific, it can only be by making your natural resources work for you, not against you.” The President urged a united EU-Pacific stance in global climate change negotiations: “We must continue to unite our forces and maintain pressure on all global partners in Durban.”
In the keynote address to the Australia National University President Barroso spoke about the shared futures of Europe and Australia in the 21st century. He noted that "Australia shows it is possible to combine economic reform with strong social protections and progress," and stressed that " the European Union welcomes the Australian Government’s efforts to tackle the carbon issue, and to develop a policy that will over time link to our own.”
In a statement following his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Gillard, President Barroso emphasised the new phase of closer cooperation between Australia and the European Union: "We share a common heritage, core interests and core values: democracy and human rights, but also openness, tolerance and global responsibility." The two leaders agreed to work towards a new, ambitious Framework Agreement that will put relations on a new footing and also signed a new agreement in the field of nuclear safety.
President Barroso met Prime Minister of Singapore, Mr Lee Hsien Long, on Sunday. They expressed their commitment their commitment to further deepen the vibrant relationship between the European Union and Singapore, notably through the conclusion of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement and a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. They also discussed the situation in the global economy and regional situation in South East Asia and the deepening of ties between ASEAN and the European Union.
President Barroso will visit Australia from 4-7 September and New Zealand from 7-9 September. In Australia, he will hold talks with Prime Minister Gillard and other political and business leaders and civil society to deepen the already flourishing bilateral relationship. In New Zealand, the President will meet Prime Minister Key and political and business leaders to discuss a reinforcement of our ties, and attend the Pacific Islands Forum to highlight the Union's role in tackling climate change in the region.
Summary of the meeting with Australian Prime Minister Guillard
Video - keynote address to the Australia National University
Speech at Auckland University, 2011 Europa Lecture, 8 September 2011
Video - Official visit to New Zealand
International Conference on Libya, Paris
"The EU will stand by them on their way to freedom and democracy"
02/09/2011
President Barroso reaffirmed the European Union's determination to support the transition and economic reconstruction in Libya. He outlined ongoing EU action in the field of humanitarian aid and pointed to further support concerning critical infrastructure. Beyond immediate needs, the President expressed the EU's readiness to contribute to capacity-building, demobilisation, national reconciliation and democratisation. He stressed two essential points: the transition should be a Libyan led process, and the UN must lead the international community in providing assistance, under Libyan guidance.
President Barroso's statement following the Conference
Responding to the Challenge of Stabilisation in post-conflict Libya
Official visits to Australia and New Zealand, 4-9 September
02/09/2011
President Barroso will visit Australia from 4-7 September and New Zealand from 7-9 September. In Australia, he will hold talks with Prime Minister Gillard and other political and business leaders and civil society to deepen the already flourishing bilateral relationship. In New Zealand, the President will meet Prime Minister Key and political and business leaders to discuss a reinforcement of our ties, and attend the Pacific Islands Forum to highlight the Union's role in tackling climate change in the region.
Statement on priorities for the autumn
"The challenges we face are great. But so is our determination to rise to them."
31/08/2011
Following an extended meeting of the Commission today, President Barroso outlined the most pressing tasks for the weeks and months ahead. He addressed the challenging economic situation and the need to rapidly finalise measures on economic governance and public finances. He also emphasised the Commission's central role in supporting the Libyan people at this momentous time.
President Barroso's video message on the priorities for the autumn
Congratulation to Mr Bhattarai, Prime Minister of Nepal
31/08/2011
President Barroso congratulated His Excellency Mr Baburam Bhattarai on his election as the new Prime Minister of Nepal. In his letter he wrote: "I trust that your appointment will contribute to a speedy conclusion of the peace process in your country, and in particular to the integration and rehabilitation of the former PLA combatants and the drafting of a democratic and inclusive constitution."
Meeting with Polish Prime Minister Tusk and President Buzek
"I urge governments and national parliaments to complete the work as swiftly as possible."
30/08/2011
The meeting between President Barroso and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk focused on economic challenges and the need of a rapid agreement between the Council and the European Parliament on the economic governance package. Afterwards leaders met President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek to discuss the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2014-2020. In the light of the Polish presidency of the Council President Barroso also participated at the unveiling of the Esplanade Solidarność plaque in front of the EP.
Message to Mr Noda, Prime Minister of Japan
30/08/2011
On behalf of the European Commission President Barroso expressed his warmest congratulations to His Excellency Mr Yoshihiko Noda, the newly appointed Prime Minister of Japan. He stated: "I wish you every success in completing the recovery and reconstruction efforts following the earthquake and tsunami which struck East Japan last March. I reaffirm my conviction that Japan will emerge even stronger than before and the European Union stands ready to assist you in these efforts."
Message to Mr Ilves, President of the Republic of Estonia
29/08/2011
On behalf of the European Commission President Barroso congratulated H.E. Mr Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President of the Republic of Estonia, on his re-election. In his message President Barroso stated: "I am in no doubt that you shall be an inspirational force for the Estonian people in their strive to build a better future and defend European values. The European Commission will continue to support fully Estonia in whatever way it can."
Joint statement on the situation in Libya
22/08/2011
In a joint statement, President Barroso and President Van Rompuy stressed that the quest for freedom by the people of Libya is coming to a historic moment. They said: "The relentless efforts of the forces of the new Libya, supported militarily by NATO and several EU Member States, and countries from the region are bringing the Gaddafi regime to its end." They also urged "Colonel Gaddafi to accept the will of the people, step down immediately, and avoid further bloodshed and sufferance."
Message of condolence following the storm which plunged the Pukkelpop festival in Hasselt into mourning
19/08/2011
On learning of the news of the storm which hit the Pukkelpop festival in Hasselt on Thursday 18 August, leading to the tragic deaths of 5 people and causing numerous injuries, President Barroso expressed his sincere condolences and deep sympathy for the families of the victims.
Statement on Franco-German proposals on euro area governance
16/08/2011
President Barroso and Commissioner Rehn issued a statement on Tuesday's proposals by President Sarkozy and Chancellor Merkel. They welcomed the step forward in our common efforts to strengthen the governance of the euro area and added that the Franco-German ideas represent "an important political contribution by the leaders of the two largest euro area economies." They stressed that "The challenges we are facing have made even clearer that a shared currency implies shared responsibility and demands closer coordination of economic policies."
The full statement by President Barroso and Commissioner Rehn
Congratulation to the PM of the Kingdom of Thailand
10/08/2011
On behalf of the European Commission President Barroso congratulated Ms Yingluck Shinawatra on her election as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand. He expressed his good wishes for the exercise of her mandate, in particular in achieving national reconciliation and stressed that the "European Commission is committed to deepening our relations across the board and to working with your Government with this objective."
Situation in the euro area sovereign bond markets
"It is essential that we move forward rapidly"
03/08/2011
"Developments in the sovereign bond markets of Italy and Spain are a cause of deep concern" but "unwarranted on the basis of economic and budgetary fundamentals" said President Barroso in a statement today. He added that "it is essential that we move forward rapidly with the implementation of all of that has been agreed by the Heads of State and Government and send an unambiguous signal of the euro area’s resolve to address the sovereign debt crisis." President Barroso announced that he will send a letter today to the Heads of State and Government urging them to ensure that necessary actions are taken without delay.
Read the statement by President Barroso
Read more on the outcome of the Euro area summit on 21 July 2011
Read the letter from President Barroso to the Heads of State or Government of the Euro area [45 KB]
Watch the press conference by Commissioner Rehn on developments in the eurozone (5 August 2011)
Speech by Commissioner Rehn "Ongoing developments in the eurozone", 5 August 2011
Follow-up letter to the Editor-in-Chief of Spiegel Online (18 August) [21 KB]
Statement on Franco-German proposals on euro area governance
Message of condolences to the King of Morocco
28/07/2011
Following an accident involving a military plane that occurred on 26 July in southern Morocco, President Barroso sent a message of condolences to His Majesty, King Mohammed VI of Morocco. The President expressed, on behalf of the Commission, his sympathy for and solidarity with the families of the victims and the Moroccan people.
Message to the Prime Minister of Norway
22/07/2011
President Barroso has sent a message to the Prime Minister of Norway, following the bomb blast in Oslo today: "It is with the utmost shock that I have observed the events unfolding in Oslo this afternoon. The bomb attack in the middle of the Government quarter has produced abhorrent images and I understand that there have been both fatal victims as well as serious injured ones. I would like to express my deepest condolences to the victims of this despicable attack and their families."
Euro area summit, 21 July 2011
"We needed a credible package: we have a credible package"
21/07/2011
"It is the first time since the beginning of the crisis that we can say that politics and the markets are coming together" said President Barroso after the meeting of the Heads of State or Government of the Euro area. He underlined that the credible package adopted today "deals with both the concerns of the markets and of citizens. It responds also to the concerns of all Member States of the Euro area. It is a package that every government has signed up to." President Barroso called on "every one to go out and defend and implement with determination this package."
"The situation requires full engagement by everyone at the summit, and I believe we will have it"
"Nobody should be under any illusion: The situation is very serious" said President Barroso in a statement in advance of the Euro area summit on the 21 July. He urged European leaders to "show the ethics of European responsibility" and stated that the minimum to be done at the summit should be to provide clarity on the following points:
Measures to ensure the sustainability of Greek public finances;
Feasibility and limits of Private Sector Involvement;
Scope for more flexible action through the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF);
Repair of the banking sector;
Measures to ensure the provision of liquidity to our banking system.
President Barroso also announced that the Commission has created a "Task Force for Greece" in order to bring growth back to the country. On financial regulation, the Commission adopted the proposal for the transposition of the Basel III agreement on bank capital requirements. "Once again, with this, Europe will be the first mover" the President added.
Read the statement of President Barroso at the press conference following the summit
Read the statement of the Heads of State or Government of the Euro area and EU institutions
Read the statement by President Barroso ahead of the summit
Increasing co‑financing rates for EU funds - boosting European economic recovery
Statement on the arrest of Goran Hadzic
20/07/2011
In a joint statement with President Van Rompuy and HRVP Ashton, President Barroso welcomed the arrest of Goran Hadzic, stressing that it was "a further important step for Serbia in realising its European perspective. The Serbian nation is now in the process of confronting the past and turning the page to a better European future." The President also reminded that full cooperation with the ICTY continues to be essential.
President Barroso visits heart of Egypt's revolution
"I come here to offer a vote of confidence in the people and the future of Egypt"
14/07/2011
During his visit to Egypt, President Barroso will hold meetings with the Head of Egypt's Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, Field Marshal Tantawi, Prime Minister Sharaf, religious leaders and civil society representatives to stress the European Union's strong support for Egypt's reforms and the region's democratic transition. At the Cairo Opera House, President Barroso set out the EU's strategic offer under the Partnership for Democracy and Shared Prosperity: "This support is based on shared accountability. A stronger commitment to the principles of the Arab Spring will mean more support from the European Union. Democracy, freedom and openness are the fundamental values that will bind Europe and Egypt together in the future" he added.
President Barroso visits heart of Egypt's revolution - watch the video
Meeting with Mahmoud Jibril, Chairman of the Libyan TNC
"We will help to build a democratic Libya, respectful of human rights, good governance and the rule of law"
13/07/2011
President Barroso met Mahmoud Jibril, the Chairman of the Transitional National Council of Libya, to discuss developments in Libya and preparations for the post-conflict phase. "We are working towards a political solution, a transition that respects the aspirations of the Libyan people and the unity and sovereignty of the country", President Barroso stressed. He underlined that the EU was ready to assist a new Libya. "Our post-conflict assistance is being set up so we can start work from day one".
Meeting with the Minister-President of Sachsen-Anhalt, Dr. Reiner Haseloff
13/07/2011
President Barroso met the Minister-President of Sachsen-Anhalt, Dr. Reiner Haseloff, who is the current president-in-office of the German Conference of Minister-Presidents. They discussed notably the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020 and agreed on the importance of an appropriate level of cohesion policy support, including for regions whose economic wealth exceeds 75% of GDP but stays below 90% of GDP (so-called transition regions). President Barroso explained some elements of the Commission's proposal, notably how the "Connecting Europe Facility" will help to improve European infrastructure in energy, transport and information and communication technologies. He also expressed his commitment to a Europe of the Regions and welcomed the high share of renewable energy in Sachsen-Anhalt and the innovative capacity of its economy.
Meeting with Horst Seehofer, Minister-President of Bavaria
12/07/2011
The Multiannual Financial Framework 2014 – 2020 was the main topic of the meeting between President Barroso and Minister-President Seehofer. President Barroso made the case for an ambitious and realistic budget with investments for Europe's growth and jobs, while taking into account budgetary constraints. Mr. Seehofer praised the proposals, including a Financial Transaction Tax, as smart and announced their thourough assessment by Germany and Bavaria. President Barroso highlighted Bavaria's competitiveness and its role as one of Europe's export engines. He counts on Bavaria and Germany "to keep up the strong support for our European project."
Diogo Vasconcelos
08/07/2011
It was with great sadness that I learned of the unexpected passing of Diogo Vasconcelos.
I should like at this time to send my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
I remember in particular his work as Director of UMIC, the Knowledge Society Agency, which pioneered e-government and administrative modernisation in Portugal, work from which the country is still today reaping the benefits. I remember as well his contribution as Vice-President of the Political Commission of the PSD, from which both the PSD and myself benefited.
Also noteworthy was the important contribution he made, discreet yet essential, to various European Commission initiatives in the fields of social innovation, the digital agenda and sustainable development. I can bear testimony to the appreciation felt by all who worked with him and who were inspired by the vision and innovative thinking that made Diogo one of the leading lights of his generation.
José Manuel Durão Barroso
Message of congratulations to Mr Andris Bērziņš
08/07/2011
President Barroso congratulated Mr Andris Bērziņš for taking office as President of the Republic of Latvia "at an important time, as Latvia approaches the completion of the economic stabilisation programme". The President underlined that Latvia is an example for other countries by taking resolute action to address economic imbalances, and has "an opportunity to enter a new era of sustainable and inclusive growth, based on European solidarity and democratic values"
Speech at Harvard Club of Belgium
07/07/2011
Addressing the Harvard Club of Belgium, President Barroso said with regard to rating agencies that 27 countries and cultures are not easy to stitch together. "But the powerful political forces that bring us to compromise and keep us together are very hard for a capital market to price. Yet they are very much real". He also criticised the Pavlovian rejection of the Commission's proposals for a financial framework 2014-2020 by some capitals, while announcing that the Commission will fight hard to keep the coherence of the proposals. According to him a financial transaction tax would be a "useful, responsible and popular tax".
Laying the ground for Europe's future prosperity
"This very first Polish Presidency of the Council appears to be a good omen for the future of Europe."
06/07/2011
A College meeting with the Polish Government was organized in Warsaw to discuss the most urgent issues at the agenda of the Polish presidency of the Council in the coming months. These include the economic situation, connecting Europe projects and the Neighbourhood policy. "I am sure that Poland is in a better position now to shape the debates to come including the debate on the future financial perspectives, but also to ask and commit with all the other Member States for a joint approach to the challenges we are facing in Europe and in the world", President Barroso said.
"Poland will need to show strong leadership to steer a course through turbulent events while maintaining its ambitious agenda"
President Barroso, discussing the incoming Polish Presidency of the Council in the European Parliament, expressed the full support of the Commission to Poland for its agenda. On the Multi-annual Financial Framework, he spoke of its added value for the EU and drew parallels with the Polish Presidency priorities. Mentioning recent news on the Danish border controls, he said that "undermining free movement is jeopardising the internal market, solidarity among Europeans and the very European project"
"Poland takes its rightful place in the driving seat of the European Union"
At the start of the Presidency, an interview of President Barroso was published, in which the President underlined that Poland has taken on the Council Presidency for the first time in its history. Poland has escaped recession and is now one of the European Union's drivers of growth. This puts it in a strong position to push forward with its ambitious agenda for a stronger, stable and open European Union. At the same time, it faces not only a challenging economic backdrop, but also the responsibility to move forward with proposals that will impact our Union for many years to come, not least on the EU's budget for 2014-2020.
On 1 July in Warsaw, President Barroso participated in the inauguration ceremonies of the first Polish Presidency of the European Council. Before that event, he met with the Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, for a working session. The President also took the opportunity of this visit to meet Polish entrepreneurs and representatives of a wide variety of sectors such as energy, e-commerce and the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Watch the video - statement on the Polish Presidency
Read the interview in Gazeta Wyborcza published on 1 July [48 KB] 
Speech by President Barroso at the European Parliament debate on the start of the Polish Presidency
Video - European Parliament debate on the start of the Polish Presidency
Read the interview in Rzeczpospolita published on 1 July [48 KB]
Conclusion of the Hungarian Presidency
05/07/2011
President Barroso praised the work of the Hungarian Presidency, noticing the progress made in several fields. On economic issues, an agreement on the economic governance package is within sight, and Member States agreed on the EU patent. On migration, FRONTEX has been strengthened, and a Common European Asylum System should be complete by 2012. President Barroso also welcomed the conclusions of negotiations with Croatia and the fact that "neighbourhood policy is more than ever at the top of the Union's agenda".
Inauguration ceremonies of the first Polish Presidency of the Council
01/07/2011
On 1 July in Warsaw, President Barroso will participate in the inauguration ceremonies of the first Polish Presidency of the European Council. Before that event, he will meet with the Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, for a working session. The President will also take the opportunity of this visit to meet Polish entrepreneurs and representatives of a wide variety of sectors such as energy, e-commerce and the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Statement following the vote in the Greek Parliament on the implementing measures for the revised economic programme
30/06/2011
In a joint statement with Council President Van Rompuy, President Barroso strongly welcomed the approval by the Greek Parliament of the implementing legislation for the country's revised economic programme. "The conditions are now in place for a decision on the disbursement of the next tranche of financial assistance for Greece and for rapid progress on a second assistance package. We reiterate Europe's unwavering support and solidarity for the Greek people" stated the President.
Statement on the vote in Greece on the revised economic programme
29/06/2011
"With today's approval by the Greek Parliament of the revised economic programme, the country has taken an important step forward along the necessary path of fiscal consolidation and growth-enhancing structural reform" President Barroso said in a joint statement with President Van Rompuy, welcoming it as "a vote of national responsibility". Greek parliamentarians must vote on 30 June on the implementing measures. A second positive vote would pave the way for the disbursement of the next tranche of financial assistance, as well as for work to proceed rapidly on a second package of financial assistance, they said.
Message of congratulations to Mrs Christine Lagarde
29/06/2011
President Barroso congratulated Christine Lagarde following her appointment to the post of Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund. The IMF ‘has made an excellent choice, one based on expertise, experience and talent’, stated the President, whilst also acknowledging the role Mrs Lagarde played in tackling European economic challenges as the Finance Minister, and expressing a wish for greater cooperation between the IMF and the Commission to help states facing difficulties with their national debt.
Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020
"Reforming the budget, changing Europe"
28/06/2011
At the European Parliament’s plenary sitting, President Barroso evoked the main lines of the Commission’s proposal for the 2014-2020 multiannual financial framework. Calling it "At once ambitious and innovative, responsible and rigorous”, the President stressed its pan-European nature and its promise for the future. A tax on financial transactions is being proposed in order to increase the EU’s own resources, for a budget to be placed at the service of growth and employment and with high added value.
All across Europe, families are prioritising where to spend their money. Some luxuries are being cut, as people invest in what really matters for the future. The European Union is doing exactly the same. The Commission’s budget proposal invests today in growth for tomorrow. Taxpayers will get more for the same amount of money they spend. It will make it a truly European budget. A budget for integration.
Boosting growth across the European Union
A large part of the budget will be aimed at getting people into work and the economy growing. A new Connecting Europe Facility will finance the missing links in energy, transport and information technology. There will be significant new money for education and vocational training, and for research and innovation to create the jobs and ideas of tomorrow. And money for less developed regions will go to jobs and growth, which will also benefit the whole of Europe.
Making Europe safer
Many of today’s challenges ignore national borders. And it is much cheaper for Europe to respond with a co-ordinated policy rather than 27 separate ones. Safe and healthy food will be at the heart of the changes to Europe’s agriculture funding. 30% of direct payments to farmers will depend on farmers making the sector environmentally friendly. A euro will protect the environment, boost energy-efficiency and the fight against climate change, strengthen cohesion and promote social targets at the same time. It can have a major leverage effect in many areas. The new budget will also strengthen the management of Europe’s external borders and put fresh money into tackling serious crime, terrorism and cybercrime.
Making Europe count in the world
The advance of technology is making the world a smaller place. Shifting alliances and emerging new powers mean that Europe must do more to make its voice count. The money invested in defending Europe’s interests will be increased. Recent events in the Southern Mediterranean have once again shown the impact on Europe of dramatic events in its neighbourhood. Incentives will be provided for those countries that deliver political and economic reforms that strengthen democracy in the region. Europe, which provides over half of development assistance worldwide, is determined to deliver on its commitment of spending 0.7% of GNI by 2015. The new budget maintains that pledge.
Getting a fairer and more transparent budget
Taxpayers need to be able to see how their money is being spent. The new budget should be simpler, more transparent and fairer. We propose that changes are made to the way the budget is financed, with new revenue streams being created to partially replace contributions based on the gross national income of each Member State. We believe that this will give families and governments a better deal.
Video message from President Barroso - Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020
Press release "Investing today for growth tomorrow"
A Budget for Europe 2020 [222 KB]
A Budget for Europe 2020 - Part II: Policy fiches [538 KB]
Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF): Questions and answers
"Money where it matters – how the EU budget delivers value to you"
Myths about the EU budget and the Multiannual Financial Framework
The Multiannual Financial Framework website
Powerpoint presentation of the MFF
Article by President Barroso in the Sunday Times, 3 July 2011 [41 KB]
Meeting with leaders of the European People's Party in national parliaments
27/06/2011
President Barroso met with the chairmen of EPP groups in national parliaments and stressed the importance of national parliaments in EU affairs, especially since the Lisbon Treaty allows them to be more involved. While fully respecting the principle of subsidiarity, President Barroso pleaded for more Europe, in particular in crisis times, and for a realistic but ambitious budget in order to achieve the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy.
European Council, 23-24 June 2011
"This was an important European Council that took crucial and substantive decisions"
24/06/2011
"On Greece, we have once again shown that we find agreement when agreement is needed" President Barroso said at the press conference following the European Council, while adding that this Council has shown that "our new way of dealing with the European economy is working". On Schengen, the Council agreed on "an EU based approach to avoid the risk of unilateral action which disrupts free movement and could also undermine the single market". On the Southern Mediterranean, President Barroso expressed his satisfaction with the European Council's support for the approach that the Commission has advocated for the region: "We all support the calls for democracy, social justice and shared prosperity." President Barroso also expressed his hope that everything will be ready for Croatia to become the 28th member of the EU by 1st July 2013. Finally, he congratulated Mr Mario Draghi on his appointment as President of the European Central Bank: "I know him well, I know his commitment to Europe, his exceptional competence in economic and monetary affairs. We wish him the best."
"There is a real will to do what is necessary to preserve the financial stability in the Euro area"
At the press conference following the first day of the European Council President Barroso outlined the main aspects of the presentation he gave to the Heads of State and Government on the overview of the economic situation in Europe. The President said that "There was a real commitment to pursue the reforms that we believe are essential for Europe's competitiveness". On the situation in Greece, he underlined that every available possibility should be used to stimulate growth and jobs: "We are ready to consider all proposals for reprogramming and restructuring funding to deliver rapid and better results on the ground". "I am extremely happy with the clear endorsement by the European Council of the intention presented by the Commission, namely where the European Council states that it welcomes and supports the preparation by the Commission together with the Member States of a comprehensive programme for technical assistance to Greece." the President concluded.
"This European Council will take important steps to ensure that the EU's economic policy-making is both more coherent and more effective."
In his statement at the Press conference in advance of the European Council President Barroso highlighted the position of the Commission on some of the most important points on the Council's substantive agenda such as migration, economic governance package and financial sector taxation. On the situation in Greece the President stated: "Greece has the potential to access a significant amount of EU money under cohesion policy. We should concentrate these funds on where it matters the most now: on improving competitiveness and employment. We should coordinate them, so that we make the most impact. We should find ways to frontload and accelerate them, so that Greece gets the benefit now."
"We have important economic issues to discuss"
In a letter to the Members of the European Council, Commission President José Manuel Barroso laid out the Commission's perspectives on the upcoming European Council agenda. He highlighted four main issues: migration, the Southern Neighbourhood, financial sector taxation and the administrative burden on SMEs.
On migration, he pledged support for the swift completion of the Common European Asylum System, adding that "the abolition of controls at internal borders goes hand in hand with common rules, solidarity and a shared responsibility for external borders".
Around the issue of the Southern Neighbourhood, President Barroso reviewed the support offered to the region and commented on upcoming plans, for example the proposal to appoint an EU special representative for the Southern Mediterranean.
The President stated that the Commission had found "a strong case for deciding on a financial sector tax in the EU as a first step." It will present a formal legislative proposal after the summer and will continue to aim for "a global agreement on a financial transaction tax."
Finally, President Barroso shared his concern that the Council appears prepared to accept lower targets in reducing red tape for SMEs than those offered by the Commission. He urged the Council to reconsider the proposals which would reduce administrative burden by more than 31%, especially considering the importance of SMEs for the European economy.
Read the letter to the Members of the European Council [289 KB]
Read the annex to the letter on Southern Mediterranean [141 KB]
Press conference in advance of the European Council
Watch the video of José Manuel Barroso at the EP Plenary session preparation of the European Council
Presentation by President Barroso to the Members of the European Council [337 KB]
Europe 2020 targets [188 KB]
Statement at the press conference following the first day of the European Council
European Council conclusions [160 KB]
Statement by President Barroso following the European Council
Statement of President Barroso on Croatia after the European Council
José Manuel Barroso at the Croatian accession meeting
Watch the video of José Manuel Barroso at the EPP Parliamentary groups
Video: José Manuel Barroso at the MEPs debate on the outcome of the European Council
Meeting with the new Prime Minister of Portugal
23/06/2011
President Barroso today received the new Prime Minister of Portugal, Pedro Passos Coelho. Ahead of the European Council, the two leaders discussed the economic situation in the eurozone. President Barroso expressed his confidence in this new government acknowledging the difficult moments that Portugal is going though. The Portuguese Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to implement the adjustment programme negotiated with the Commission, the ECB and the IMF. "The success of Portugal will be the success of Europe", the President said.
Meeting with the President of Azerbaijan
22/06/2011
President Barroso met with Mr Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan. The two leaders discussed progress in EU-Azerbaijan relations, notably the talks on an Association Agreement launched last year. On energy issues, President Barroso stressed that realizing the Southern Gas Corridor - a joint strategic goal for both the EU and Azerbaijan - was key for the security and diversification of our energy supply and demand. President Barroso also emphasized the importance of further political reforms and the full respect for rule of law in Azerbaijan.
Meeting with the Secretary General of the Arab League
22/06/2011
President Barroso received the outgoing Secretary General of the Arab League, HE Mr. Amre Moussa, for talks. The two leaders discussed the state of play in the Middle East Peace Process, the situation in Libya and the democratic transition in Egypt. President Barroso reiterated the EU's and the Commission's strong support to democratic and economic reforms in our Southern Neighbourhood, in particular through the new Partnership for Democracy and Shared Prosperity that the Commission was spearheading.
Message of congratulations to Mr Jyrki Katainen
22/06/2011
President Barroso congratulated Mr Jyrki Katainen on his appointment as Prime Minister of the Republic of Finland. "Europe is presently facing perhaps the most serious economic crisis in its history, and there is still more to do to tackle the crisis." the President wrote. He expressed his confidence that Finland will "continue to contribute actively and constructively to these efforts as well as to other important issues on the European agenda".
Statement on the confidence vote in the Parliament on the new Greek Government
22/06/2011
President Barroso welcomed the confidence vote in the Parliament on the new Greek Government and said it "removes an element of uncertainty from an already very difficult situation". He called on the Greek government to focus their efforts on building support in parliament for the approval of the ambitious series of fiscal measures and privatisations agreed with the troika. "The approval of these measures next week will not only enable a rapid disbursement of the next tranche of financial assistance for Greece; it will also mark a big step in Greece's journey back towards sustainable public finances and a return to growth" he added.
Message on the re-election of Ban Ki-moon as UN Secretary-General
22/06/2011
President Barroso and President Van Rompuy made the following statement on learning of the re-election of Ban Ki-moon as UN Secretary-General: "We warmly welcome the news of the re-election of the Secretary General of the United Nations. Under his leadership the UN has played a decisive role in tackling issues of global nature from tackling climate change to peace and security, development and eradication of poverty. We look forward to continue the good cooperation between the European Union and the United Nations in the future".
Meeting with the Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou
21/06/2011
In a statement following his meeting with George Papandreou, President Barroso recognised the Greek prime minister's "tremendous efforts made over the past year" and stressed that he knew that what the Greek people were living through was difficult. "If there were an easier route out of the crisis, we would have taken it. But there is not," he said. "Now is not the time to falter. Now is the time to redouble efforts: for the sake of the Greek people, and for all of Europe," he concluded.
Message of condolences to Dmitriy Medvedev
21/06/2011
Following the tragic plane accident that happened in Karelia, President Barroso sent a message of condolences to the President of the Russian Federation, Dmitriy Medvedev, expressing his deepest sympathy with the families of victims.
Meeting with UK Prime Minister David Cameron
20/06/2011
President Barroso met UK Prime Minister Cameron today to discuss the forthcoming European Council and the forthcoming Commission proposals for the future European budget.
Meeting with the President of Croatia
"We are in the process of opening a new chapter in Croatia's rich history"
17/06/2011
President Barroso congratulated Croatia's President Josipovic on his country's historic progress. "The Commission has proposed to close the accession negotiations. Croatia is now ready to move ahead" said President Barroso and added: "This decisive step forward is also a clear signal to the rest of South Eastern Europe: It shows that enlargement works". He stressed the importance for Croatia to keep the momentum in the period before accession and to continue the enforcement of reforms.
Statement on the recent political developments in Greece
17/06/2011
"I hope the new government can be approved rapidly, so that the process for continuation of financial assistance to Greece may continue smoothly" said President Barroso on today's political developments in Greece in response to a question during his press point with the President of Croatia. "I look to Sunday's Eurogroup to resolve remaining differences and come to a responsible agreement on financial assistance to Greece" he added.
Meetings with the Presidents of the regional associations
16/06/2011
President Barroso met the Presidents of the regional and local associations and the President of the Committee of the Regions. President Barroso assured them that the cohesion policy will continue to be a strategic area for the EU of the future. He also expressed his wish for closer cooperation with the Committee of the Regions. With regard to the outermost regions, the Commission will propose a strategy in 2012 for 2020, which respects their particular status in accordance with the Treaty.
Video - José Manuel Barroso at the Presidents of Outermost Regions
Video - José Manuel Barroso at the Presidents of Regional Associations
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Report
16/06/2011
President Barroso gave a speech at the launch of IPCC's Special Report on Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation. He stressed that "the world needs to do much better if we are to limit temperature increase to 2°C." "Renewable energy offers Europe a significant tool in doing so and is central to building a new economic model" for green growth and jobs. "Renewables are neither a luxury nor a distraction" but "a core business for the EU", he noted.
Annual meeting with the European Court of Auditors
15/06/2011
The College of Commissioners held its annual meeting with the European Court of Auditors today. It was a good occasion for both institutions to update each other on different issues of mutual interest. During the meeting, among other issues, a number of elements related to financial management in the forthcoming Commission proposals on the Multiannual Financial Framework were discussed.
Conference on commodities and raw materials
"We all have an interest in reducing the excessive tensions and imperfections which can occur in these markets."
14/06/2011
In his speech at the international conference on commodities and raw materials, President Barroso stated that an 'emerging consensus is forming on the need to give greater transparency and an appropriate level of regulation' to these markets. Bringing together both producer and consumer countries, 'without a doubt the G20 is the most appropriate forum for dealing with these issues,' he stated, calling for coordinated international action.
Meeting with Mr Michel Platini, President of UEFA
14/06/2011
President Barroso met Mr Michel Platini, President of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), and in particular broached the Commission Communication on sport that was published in January, which promises standards of good governance for sports. President Barroso also supported the principle of 'financial fair-play' proposed by UEFA, aimed at re-establishing stability and good economic sense in European football, and the importance of supporting national teams and tackling match fixing.
Message of congratulations to Mr Recep Tayyip Erdogan
14/06/2011
Following the elections in Turkey, President Barroso congratulated Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the outcome. "The results open the way to further strengthening Turkey's democratic institutions, as well as to the continued modernisation of the country, in line with European values and standards", President said in a joint message with European Council President Van Rompuy. He added that progress in these fields should also give new impetus to the accession negotiations with the European Union.
Commission proposes to close the last "Chapters" in the accession talks with Croatia
10/06/2011
"Today is a historic day for Croatia and for the European Union" stated President Barroso on the Commission proposal to close the last four chapters in the accession talks with Croatia. "At this significant moment, I would like to applaud the Croatian authorities for their hard work over the last years. Even more importantly, I would like to congratulate the people of Croatia. Joining the EU family of nations is first and foremost your success!" The President also stated that this important step should serve as "an inspiration to our other partners to reinvigorate their reform efforts and to deliver to the benefit of their people. This is also in the EU’s self-interest."
EU-Russia Summit - deepening strategic partnership
"I look forward to a constructive Summit with President Medvedev, which will bring further progress to our strategic partnership"
09/06/2011
The discussions at the 27th EU–Russia Summit will focus on global economy and global governance, EU-Russia relations and Russia's WTO accession, and the new EU-Russia Agreement currently under negotiation. President Barroso said: "I am confident that our talks will help Russia to walk the final mile towards WTO accession, which is still possible this year, and to find constructive solutions to all outstanding issues and concerns. Regarding the ongoing negotiations on a New EU-Russia Agreement, I will encourage President Medvedev to move forward on the trade and investment chapters. This will further upgrade our strategic relationship."
Read the statement following the summit
Main outcomes [17 KB]
Meeting with Tarja Halonen, President of Finland
08/06/2011
President Barroso met with Tarja Halonen, President of Finland and Co-Chair of the Global Sustainability Panel of the UN. "Global sustainability is not an isolated field of politics. It is an overarching, key objective", President Barroso said. He underlined that the EU is a committed actor of sustainability: "it is at the core of our Europe 2020 Strategy", with ambitious targets in major policy areas. He also expressed the Commission's support to the preparatory work for the Durban and Rio Conferences.
Statement on UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's readiness to serve a second term
08/06/2011
Following UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's announcement of his readiness to serve a second term, President Barroso stated: "We, in the European Union, appreciate his wisdom and his dedication to solving the important issues on our planet, from sustainability and supporting developing countries to our constant struggle for peace. I believe Ban Ki-moon has been and is a very good Secretary-General of the United Nations. We will be very pleased to see him continue in that very important position."
Country-specific Recommendations 2011
"These efforts, if made seriously and by all, will allow Europe to leave the crisis behind it and safeguard our future prosperity"
07/06/2011
With the publication of 27 country-specific recommendations on 7 June 2011, the Commission has taken another decisive step to support each Member State in delivering growth and jobs – and thus put the whole EU economy back on track. "We know that achieving the goals we have collectively set ourselves means sometimes hard choices. But these efforts, if made seriously and by all, will allow Europe to leave the crisis behind it and safeguard our future prosperity." said President Barroso.
European Parliament Question Hour
07/06/2011
The main topics of the Question Hour with President Barroso in the European Parliament were the outcome of the G8 Summit in Deauville, the support to the European Neighbourhood, migration, today's Commission recommendations to Member States to boost growth and jobs and the situation of public finances. The President also expressed his personal support for a taxation of the financial sector and announced a forthcoming proposal by the Commission in this regard.
Statement by President Barroso on the accession talks with Croatia
07/06/2011
President Barroso made the following statement after the European Commission meeting on 7 June: "I believe we are very close to concluding negotiations with Croatia. We are about to reach a decisive moment in Croatia’s long journey towards EU membership. I believe that there will be some very good news in this regard on Friday - for the people of Croatia, the European Union and all the peoples of South Eastern Europe."
Message of congratulations to the Prime Minister of FYROM
07/06/2011
Following the elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, President Barroso sent a message of congratulations to Mr Nikola Gruevski, the current Prime Minister and leader of VMRO-DPMNE. Underlining the common goal of FYROM's integration into the EU, President Barroso expressed his confidence that the new government would "make every effort to ensure progress on the important issues that remain to be addressed" on FYROM's path towards the European Union.
Laudatio for J.-C. Trichet, Charlemagne Prize 2011, Aix-la-Chapelle
"A guardian of price stability and the credibility of the euro"
02/06/2011
During the presentation of the Charlemagne prize, President Barroso paid homage to Jean-Claude Trichet, the President of the European Central Bank, as 'a guardian of price stability and the credibility of the euro'. In his laudatio, the President congratulated Mr Trichet for his experience, his independent spirit, his informed dose of pragmatism and courage, orthodoxy and openness. He also underlined the moral obligation which the Charlemagne prize represents for European leaders to preserve and reinforce European dynamism.
Meeting with the African Union Commission
"Europe and Africa are natural partners, bound together by a shared history, common values and mutual interests."
31/05/2011
"Europe and Africa are natural partners, bound together by a shared history, common values and mutual interests" said President Barroso following the plenary meeting of the African Union Commission and the EU Commission. Europe and Africa will continue "fighting poverty, achieving the Millennium Development Goals, tackling climate change and promoting peace and security and human rights" together, he added, while insisting that "there can be no economic growth without the right political foundations. Development and democracy must go hand in hand".
"The encouraging historical changes on the African continent present tremendous opportunities to enhance our relations."
The African Union Commission and the European Commission are meeting in Brussels for their 5th annual College-to-College session. They will move forward on a joint agenda of the Africa-EU Strategic Partnership and focus their discussion on two key issues: democracy and growth. President Barroso said prior to the meeting: "The encouraging historical changes on the African continent present tremendous opportunities to enhance our relations. For development to be sustainable, we need growth and democracy. "
More on the Joint Africa-EU strategy
Statement by President Barroso following the plenary meeting
Religious leaders meeting
30/05/2011
Around 20 senior representatives from the Christian, Jewish, Muslim religions as well as from the Buddhist communities met on the invitation of President Barroso, co-chaired by EP President Buzek and Council President Van Rompuy. "Our task and ambition is to promote democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, human rights and social justice not only in Europe but also in our neighbourhood. I strongly believe these challenges cannot be met without the active contribution of the religious communities. Today's discussion confirmed our common commitment to the promotion of democratic rights and liberties, including freedom of religion and of belief." said the President.
EU-Japan Summit
30/05/2011
"Today was not only the Summit of 'Kizuna', of friendship, but also the Summit of 'Shinrai', of trust" said President Barroso following the EU-Japan Summit in Brussels on Saturday. He announced the launching of the process towards "an ambitious Free Trade Agreement that tackles all the barriers between us". "This will release untapped potential in our economic relationship. It is also a sign of our commitment to open global trade" the President added.
Read President Barroso's remarks
Read the joint press statement
Message of congratulations to the President of Nigeria
30/05/2011
President Barroso conveyed a message of congratulations to Mr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the newly elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He assured him of the European Commission's full support for the political, social and economic reforms for the benefit of Nigeria's citizen. "We value Nigeria's leadership in promoting peace, stability and development in the region, and in Africa as a whole", the President added.
G8 Summit, Deauville, 26 to 27 May
"This was a successful G8 summit"
26/05/2011
In a joint statement by President Barroso and President Van Rompuy following the G8 Summit, the two Presidents expressed their satisfaction with the results from the Summit: "On Northern Africa and the Middle East, we have agreed on a global concerted response. The Deauville Partnership builds very much on the EU’s new partnership with the region, as clearly reflected in the Summit Declaration". On the economy, there has been "clear determination by all partners to address those issues in each region that could hamper the global recovery, which we all want to speed up". The first ever joint declaration on Africa, as well as the G8 agreement to enhance international standards on nuclear safety as the EU asked for, are also among the important results of the Summit.
"We must stand with those who seek freedom and democracy."
Support to the democratic transitions in the Middle East and Northern Africa, the highest possible safety standards around the world for nuclear energy, deepening of the G8's special commitment to Africa and more effective multilateralism and global policy-making, notably on world trade issues, are the four main areas in which the EU wants to achieve results, President Barroso said in his statement at the press conference before the G8 Summit. On the democratic transitions in the Middle East and North Africa, the President stated: "We must stand with those who seek freedom and democracy." and added that in the framework of the Commission's Neighbourhood Policy review, the Commission is "putting the largest amount of money on the table. I will set out to the G8 this new approach. It means more support for more reform".
"Shaping and supporting a changing world"
The G8 summit will take place from 26 to 27 May in Deauville (France). In 2011, France chairs both the G8 and the G20. The European Union, as a full member of the G8, will push for ambitious answers to common challenges.
This is the first time since the beginning of the transitions in the Arab world that the G8 leaders convene to address these developments. The Summit is expected to deliver a strong message of support to the democratic transition. "The European Union will come to Deauville to push for a new partnership of the G8 with those neighbours in the Southern Mediterranean that have chosen the path of freedom and democracy" said President Barroso. The EU has already set out its approach towards the region in its strategy on the 'Partnership for Democracy and Shared Prosperity'.
The Commission has just proposed ambitious actions to support our neighbours to the South and East even more effectively under its Neighbourhood Policy review . This includes additional aid of 1.24 billion € that would bring our total support for the regions to nearly 8 billion in the next two years. The EU thus remains by far the largest donor and investor in political and economic reforms.
The gathering will also serve as a platform to promote nuclear safety at global level following the nuclear incident in Japan. In a statement on Wednesday, President Barroso said that "the EU will seek to commit its partners to highest safety standards, ambitious stress-testing of nuclear power plants and enhanced international cooperation."
The main topics to be discussed by G8 leaders in Deauville are:
developments in the Middle East and North Africa
nuclear safety
the Internet
the world economy and trade
green growth and innovation
peace and security issues
development accountability
the G8 Partnership with Africa – leading to the first joint declaration between Africa and the G8.
Article by José Manuel Barroso in Libération, 24 May 2011 [369 KB]
The European Union at the G8 summit in Deauville
Press material on the 2011 G8 summits
The European Neighbourhood Policy review
The Partnership for Democracy and Shared Prosperity
Statement by President Barroso at the press conference in advance of the G8 Summit in Deauville
Joint statement of European Council President Van Rompuy and European Commission President Barroso
Deauville G8 Declaration [119 KB]
Statement by President Barroso on the arrest of Ratko Mladic
26/05/2011
"I strongly welcome the arrest of Ratko Mladic by Serbia's authorities. This is an important step forward for Serbia and for international justice. I congratulate President Tadic and Serbia's Government for this courageous action." said President Barroso. He also added: "During my visit to Belgrade last week, I strongly reiterated the EU's firm support to Serbia's European perspective. The arrest of Ratko Mladic is therefore a very positive development for the European Union, for Serbia's neighbours, but most of all for the rule of law in Serbia itself. The families of his countless victims deserve justice."
OECD 50th anniversary
26/05/2011
"Our future is closely linked to the future of our closest neighbours", President Barroso said in Paris, commemorating the OECD 50th anniversary. The European Neighbourhood Policy is based on economic development, social justice, and democratic reforms. "We must stand side by side with those who aspire to a greater future of political freedom and social justice", he declared, adding that "we must show our support through actions, not just words".
Meeting with the President of Paraguay
24/05/2011
Following his meeting with the President of Paraguay, Fernando Lugo, President Barroso said the EU is ready to strengthen its relations with Paraguay, in particular in the areas of education, the fight against climate change and energy. The two leaders discussed the ongoing negotiations to reach an Association agreement between the EU and Mercosur. "We have reiterated our commitment to follow the negotiations and I believe that this is going to be a global, balanced and ambitious agreement" said President Barroso.
Read the press statement following the meeting (in Spanish) [33 KB] 
Opening of the Permanent Representation of Poland to the EU
23/05/2011
At the inauguration of the new building of the Polish Permanent Representation to the EU, President Barroso met with the Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The two leaders discussed the forthcoming Polish Presidency and the EU's current agenda, notably the EU's financial perspectives. They agreed that "From 2014, the EU has to be equipped with a modern budget able to face today's challenges and to invest in the future". President Barroso added "Poland has every intention of delivering a strong and ambitious Presidency, to enact a similarly strong and ambitious European agenda".
Read the press statement following the meeting
Read the speech at the opening ceremony of the Polish Permanent Representation to the EU
Message of congratulations to the President of the Ivory Coast
21/05/2011
President Barroso sent a message of congratulations to Mr Alassane Dramane Ouattara, the President of the Republic of Ivory Coast, in which he expressed his delight at his appointment. ‘The Ivorian people have placed their confidence in you to meet the many challenges facing your country in terms of stabilisation, governance and combating poverty,’ he added, renewing the EU’s support under the framework of the Cotonou Agreement.
Visit to South Eastern Europe
"I am here to confirm our strong commitment to Kosovo's European perspective, but it is also clear that you hold the key to your own European future"
20/05/2011
"The countries of South Eastern Europe belong in the European Union"
President Barroso travels to Serbia and Kosovo on 19 and 20 May. He will hold meetings with political leaders as well as civil society representatives. The President said: "Enlargement remains a powerful tool for deepening democracy, security and prosperity in Europe. But it is for our partners themselves to determine the pace of their European future. I will encourage the leaders in Serbia and Kosovo to accelerate the reforms and tackle the challenges and conditions with renewed vigour."
"I am confident that Serbia will do its utmost on outstanding challenges"
"2011 is a year of opportunities for our enlargement policy in general - and for Serbia in particular" President Barroso said, following his meeting with Boris Tadić, President of the Republic of Serbia. "Time is running and Serbia still has to tackle important outstanding issues until the Commission publishes its opinion in October", he added. He acknowledged the efforts underway and particularly stressed the importance of the EU's political criteria and of full cooperation with the ICTY (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia).
"I am here to confirm our strong commitment to Kosovo's European perspective, but it is also clear that you hold the key to your own European future."
Following his meeting with Hashim Thaçi, Prime Minister of Kosovo, President Barroso stated that the Commission "will continue to help Kosovo on "the road to Europe". We have provided substantial financial assistance and political advice over the last decade, and we will keep supporting you." The President strongly encouraged Kosovo to accelerate its reforms to "strengthen the rule of law and public administration", as well as to build a strong economic programme delivering to its citizens.
Read the statement following the meeting with the President of the Republic of Serbia
Read the statement following the meeting with the Prime Minister of Kosovo
Message of condolences to the Taoiseach of Ireland
19/05/2011
President Barroso sent a message of condolences to Mr Enda Kenny, Taoiseach of Ireland, on the death of Dr. Garret FitzGerald, former Taoiseach of Ireland. President Barroso paid tribute to him as "a great leader of the Irish people and a committed and outstanding European". He added: "Throughout his life Dr. FitzGerald was a passionate advocate of Ireland's active membership of the European Union", reminding of his important role in European affairs.
European Business Summit
18/05/2011
"A new economic governance, coupled with structural reforms and more intensive policy coordination, will stabilise the foundations of Europe's economy and internal cohesion" said President Barroso in his address to European business leaders. He expressed the hope that the new system of governance and the country specific recommendations that the Commission will present at the beginning of next month will be adopted by the Member States. "I do not see now in today's Europe one government that is not committed to structural reform" he added.
Meeting with the Prime Minister of Hungary
18/05/2011
During his meeting with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán today, President Barroso expressed his appreciation for the hard work done by the Presidency up to now. The two leaders discussed the legislative package on economic governance and President Barroso told Prime Minister Orbán that the Commission will do its utmost to help secure an agreement on the package by June.
Meeting with the Prime Minister of Estonia
18/05/2011
President Barroso met with Mr Andrus Ansip, Prime Minister of Estonia. The President thanked him for Estonia's support for the Single Market Act and congratulated Estonia for the political agreement reached in December on Tallinn as the seat of the EU Information Technology Agency. President Barroso also assured Prime Minister Ansip of the EU's continued support for the Eastern Partnership.
A European economy fit for the future
18/05/2011
"I don't now see anyone in Europe able to oppose the need for economic reform. At different paces yes, with different rhythms, sometimes with different determination, but there is a clear wind in favour of economic reform in Europe", President Barroso said at the Brussels Economic Forum, referring to the necessary changes following the crisis Europe has faced. He also estimated that thanks to reforms, Europe is today better equipped to face challenges and to bring prosperity to all its citizens.
Visit to Antwerp - European Youth Week and Port of Antwerp
"You are Europe's best bet for a stronger future"
17/05/2011
"Europe's future and prosperity depends on you", President Barroso said in the context of the European Youth week in Antwerp. Admitting that the youth environment is more competitive and pressured than in previous generations, the President explained that young people are directly targeted by the Europe 2020 strategy, since it promotes education, employment and mobility through initiatives like Youth on the Move. The President also visited the Port of Antwerp, one of Europe's most important gateways for trade with the world.
Read the statement at the "Youth on the Move" press conference
"Youth on the Move - Make it Happen" – extracts from President Barroso's participation in the debate
Visit to the Netherlands
16/05/2011
President Barroso opened the new Europa House, the Commission's and European Parliament's new Representation in The Hague. "I hope this house becomes a place of debate – for Europe needs a critical debate", he said. President Barroso stressed the importance of openness for the European success project. "Free movement is to Europe what foundations are to buildings - remove it and the whole structure is undermined", he declared. That is why solidarity and responsibility must be and stay the key words for European actions, he added.
Meeting representatives of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
12/05/2011
President Barroso met with the President of UEAPME (European Association of Craft, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises), Mr. Loek Hermans, and Secretary General, Andrea Benassi. He emphasised the important role that small and medium-sized enterprises play for European recovery and innovation. He stated that the Commission will continue to support SMEs in the context of the Small Business Act, through administrative burden reduction and financial support beyond 2013. He also left no doubt about the need to facilitate access to finance for SMEs.
Message of sympathy to José Luis Rodriguez Zapatero
12/05/2011
It is with great sadness and emotion that President Barroso learned of the terrible earthquake that occurred in Lorca in Spain. The President sent a message of sympathy to the Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodriguez Zapatero in which he offered his heartfelt condolences to the victims' families.
Migration flows and their impact on Schengen
10/05/2011
During a debate in the EP, President Barroso stated that "it is a great progress of civilization that countries are able to put borders down and let citizens flow freely". He reminded that already last year, the Commission put forward proposals to preserve and strengthen the evaluation mechanism of Schengen as a central achievement of the EU project. He left no doubt that "solidarity and responsibility are the key words in our response. Immigration is a European challenge. Immigration requires a European response."
Message of congratulations to Mr Stephen Harper
10/05/2011
President Barroso sent a message of congratulations to Mr Stephen Harper on the latter's reappointment as Prime Minister of Canada. The President expressed his hope that the conclusion of negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will bring "further benefits to the peoples of Canada and the EU and will reflect our common engagement to promote free trade". He also looks forward to working with PM Harper in the UN, G8 and G20 contexts on the on-going global challenges.
Speech at the 4th UN Conference on Least Developed Countries
"Europe remains totally committed to helping the poorest developing countries"
09/05/2011
President Barroso said: "The world is coming together to eradicate poverty in the poorest members of the global community. The European Union will continue to show leadership in this critical endeavour. As the world's most generous donor, we provide more than half of the global aid to our partners and have tripled our assistance the Least Developed Countries to 15 billion euro a year. This tangible European solidarity is a matter of justice, but also a strategic necessity."
Europe Day on 9th May - Statement on the 61st anniversary of the Schuman Declaration
06/05/2011
President Barroso praised Robert Schuman as a visionary pragmatist who knew that Europe could only be built in different steps and through concrete achievements. He also referred to the achievements of European integration and to the current challenges and European answers to them. The President then expressed his conviction that "the European Union has maintained and increased its capacity to act despite or thanks to the various challenges it is facing, with the European Commission continuing to drive forward solutions and advances of our European Union."
Study Days of the European People's Party in Palermo
06/05/2011
President Barroso outlined the EU's willingness and action to support the democratic transition in the Southern Mediterranean and expressed his conviction that this partnership can be of mutual benefit. He then outlined the Commission's vision of a common migration and asylum po