Welcoming the Danish Prime Minister, EP President Metsola said Denmark assumes the Presidency at a critical moment, and the presidency’s slogan, ‘A strong Europe in a changing world’ captures exactly what is needed. President Metsola said Denmark is well placed to lead Europe by example and said that Parliament is ready to cooperate across all issues, while highlighting the particular importance of the upcoming EU long-term budget.

Prime Minister Frederiksen said the EU is facing the greatest international challenges the world has experienced since the 1940s, geopolitical and economic competition, and rising levels of conflict.

She said that Europe must take responsibility for its own security by investing more and strengthening its defence industry so that by 2030 the EU will be able to defend itself. To face the military threat from Russia, Europe must also continue to support Ukraine’s fight for peace and freedom. The Prime Minister stressed the EU’s support for…