Over the course of a two-day summit, EU leaders will discuss continued support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression, security and defence, the unfolding situation in the Middle East, enlargement, external relations, migration, agriculture and the European Semester. This news item shows the arrival of Roberta METSOLA, EP President at the European Council, the roundtable and extracts from her press conference.

Brussels

statement

press conference

METSOLA, Roberta (EPP, MT, EP President)

president's agenda

European Council meeting 21-22 march 2024 (T)

Roberta METSOLA, EP President at the European Council: arrival, roundtable and extracts from the press conference

External shots of the European Council (3 shots)

Arrival of Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, to the European Council

Roundtable of the European Council meeting (10 shots)

Arrival of Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, to the press conference room

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, We need to strengthen our own security. This is an issue on which citizens from all countries expect us to deliver, and it is what the Parliament is calling for. We must be ready for the next steps of cooperation between us all in this new world to take a giant leap forward towards a real security framework in line with all Member States obligations and neutrality. The same is true for enlargement. A larger union with membership based on clear objectives, criteria and merit will always serve as the best investment in peace, security, stability and prosperity on our continent. That is why it is time to open EU accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, We cannot talk about peace, security and stability without addressing the desperate situation in the Middle East. This is why the European Parliament will continue to push for an immediate cease fire, why we will keep demanding the return of the remaining hostages and why Hamas cannot continue to operate with impunity. This must be our united European message. And I called for clear conclusions today to reflect this. Into Gaza, because this is how we can save innocent lives and above all, how we can push forward the urgent discussion on a two state solution.

Cutaways of the press conference held by Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament (6 shots)