Valencia ** On Tuesday, Manfred Weber, the president of the European People’s Party (EPP), confirmed his reelection for a three-year term after receiving unanimous backing at the party’s congress in Valencia, Spain. He cautioned his colleagues in light of the upcoming European elections, stating that “populists are gaining strength because too many democrats are weak.”
The Bavarian politician secured 502 votes in his favor, representing 89% of the valid votes from the delegates present at the congress. Weber was the sole candidate for the position, receiving 61 votes against and seven null votes.
During the congress, Weber also nominated Dolors Montserrat from Spain to be the party’s secretary general for the next three years, a nomination pending confirmation in a procedural vote on Wednesday. Celebrating his reelection with the classic tune “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey, Weber noted that his vote percentage matched the results from the 2022 congress held in Rotterdam, where he was first elected.
In his speech before the vote, Weber criticized social democrats for neglecting the working class, as well as greens and liberals who primarily engage with affluent neighborhoods and voters. He emphasized the significant political challenges ahead, warning of an authoritarian wave that threatens Europe.
He highlighted that the main political adversaries for his party are extremists who oppose Ukraine, the rule of law, and a united Europe. Weber called on fellow European politicians to clearly define their political aspirations and narratives in order to counter the populists’ divisive rhetoric.
“Too many politicians focus solely on what they oppose—Trump, the Green Deal, gender ideology, Europe. Instead, we must articulate what we stand for. Our generation’s key tasks include establishing a unified defense and foreign policy,” he urged.
Weber’s presidency began in 2022 during a challenging period for the EPP, which faced electoral losses in major cities and held only eight of the 27 EU heads of state positions while being in opposition in the five largest European economies: Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Now, three years later, he renews his mandate with the party experiencing historic success, holding twelve leadership positions among member states, fourteen European commissioners, and being the largest group in the European Parliament, along with control of the European Commission and Parliament.
His leadership has seen the party collaborate with ultraconservative factions, such as Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy, and vote alongside far-right groups in the European Parliament when necessary, including opposition to the nature restoration law in the previous legislature.
Von der Leyen: “Europe is Reliable and Predictable”
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, stressed the importance of Europe as a “reliable and predictable” partner amidst global trade uncertainties during her address to the EPP congress. She stated, “In times of crisis, it compensates that Europe is reliable. We have established the largest network of free trade agreements with 76 countries, and the global trade landscape is increasingly shifting towards us.”
Von der Leyen expressed concern over the disruptive impact of unpredictable U.S. tariff policies on global trade, warning about the adverse effects on vulnerable citizens and businesses of all sizes. “We must insist on policies that support open markets and fair trade partnerships,” she urged her colleagues.
She reviewed recent EU trade agreements with Mercosur, Mexico, and Switzerland, noting ongoing negotiations with countries like India, Indonesia, and the Philippines. “Everyone wants agreements with us because we are fair and play by the rules. We must remain united and calm, as that is how Europe trades,” she asserted.
Von der Leyen emphasized the need for Europe to defend its values, stating, “We do not invade our neighbors nor punish them; instead, twelve countries are eager to join the EU.” Although she discussed a new directive aimed at tightening migration policies and increasing investment in defense and security, she did not address the recent floods in Valencia that resulted in over 200 casualties.
Metsola Calls for Europe to Embrace Change
Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament, urged the necessity for proactive change within Europe. She emphasized the need for foresight and bravery to prevent crises rather than merely responding to them. Metsola remembered the victims of the October floods in Spain and expressed solidarity for the affected community.
She stated that the rebirth of Europe is achievable with determination and courage and highlighted the need for collaboration in addressing issues such as economic security and safety for children in public spaces. Metsola insisted on the importance of clear and decisive economic responses, criticizing ambiguity in tariffs.
Metsola advocated for deeper integration in defense, energy, and telecommunications, asserting that Europe must present a unified front against geopolitical tensions. “Europe will act to protect its workers and defend its interests,” she stated, calling for improved dialogue and reduced tensions.
Merz: Strengthening EU Defense Capacities
Fried
Leave a Reply