"Discourse with Margrethe Vestager: Europe's stance - no corporation, regardless of size, is exempt from legal obligations"
The European Commission, under the leadership of President Ursula von der Leyen, is focusing its second term on enhancing competitiveness as a means to secure the continent's economic future. The erosion of competitiveness, a gradual process, poses a significant threat to Europe's economic model, and addressing this issue is a matter of life and death.
The Commission recognises that significant barriers still exist in the single market, despite the existence of a real European market in several areas. To overcome these obstacles, the Commission aims to use its mobilising power to get member states to discuss and lift barriers in the single market. One of the main challenges in completing the single market is the lack of a capital markets union.
Competition policy can play a crucial role in addressing the competitiveness challenges identified in the Draghi report. The Commission's decisions, such as the Google Shopping and Apple cases, have been recognised by the court, indicating that no one is above the law in Europe. The Commission also has the power to impose tariffs if it deems Chinese competition unfair.
To foster a more competitive environment, the Commission plans to simplify regulations and reduce bureaucracy. This will help enhance the EU's competitiveness and innovation. The Commission also aims to invest in regional prosperity and the agricultural sector, support technological leadership in AI and clean technologies, and advance public and private investments in infrastructure and digitization.
Reforming public procurement to prevent wage and social dumping is another key aspect of the Commission's strategy. The Commission also believes that promoting knowledge exchange, strengthening digital key technologies, and supporting strategic initiatives in defense and energy supply are essential for a competitive Europe.
The Commission's proposal for the AI Act aims to create a climate of trust for using AI in essential areas of life. The Digital Services Act mandates procedures to prevent misuse of social media platforms that undermine democracy. The Commission is also working on simplifying reporting systems for companies.
The Commission is ready to use infringement procedures to find constructive and rapid solutions. If necessary, the Union may need to review competition rules and implement a new tool, as suggested by the Draghi report. The Commission is also prepared to invest much more in common defense capabilities.
The Commission's efforts are not limited to Europe. European funds invest in European companies in the United States, which is regrettable. The Commission aims to create a market that works for scaling up businesses. Significant progress has already been made in terms of innovation, as indicated by the many unicorns born in France.
However, the path to a more competitive Europe is not without challenges. There are evident tensions within the Union regarding China, with some member states viewing it as a predatory economy. The Trade and Technology Council, a format created to restore dialogue between the Union and the United States, is expected to survive the next U.S. elections.
The Commission's ultimate measure of success will be its ability to maintain the European social model, which offers a good education, operational infrastructure, and access to good healthcare services. To ensure these efforts are not in vain, the Union must invest in human resources and skills.
The European People's Party supports measures to encourage the private sector and reduce regulation. The Commission's aim to invest in the energy sector and electrical network for better interconnectivity is also commendable. The Union needs to invest much more in common defense capabilities to secure its future.
In conclusion, the European Commission's focus on competitiveness is a step in the right direction for a prosperous Europe. By addressing the challenges facing the single market, simplifying regulations, investing in innovation and infrastructure, and fostering a competitive business environment, the Commission aims to renew the European model to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
