Brussels – On Thursday morning, Richard Raši, Chairman of the National Council of the Slovak Republic (Hlas-SD), held a meeting in Brussels with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament (EP). Their discussions centered on the REPowerEU initiative and the long-term EU budget, according to a report from TASR’s Brussels correspondent.
Richard Raši noted that Roberta Metsola had accepted his invitation to visit Slovakia, where she will engage with parliament members, government officials, and students to clarify various European issues.
He highlighted that their main discussions were economically focused, particularly on the EU’s multiannual financial framework, the REPowerEU initiative, and emissions allowances under ETS 2.
“These topics impact the people of Slovakia and are significant within the European Parliament – concerning emissions allowances, the ban on combustion engines, reducing CO2 emissions, and Europe’s competitiveness, along with the outlook for the multiannual financial framework and new EU funds, defining operations from 2028 to 2034,” he stated. Raši pointed out that these issues are sensitive for Slovaks, as many EU measures could impose financial challenges.
Members of the EP have urged the European Commission to revise its proposal for the future long-term budget to protect traditional policies like cohesion and agriculture. Raši mentioned that the European Parliament aims to collaborate with the Commission to avoid a complete overhaul of the budget proposal.
“Compromises will need to be reached. Currently, member states and MEPs agree that any changes to EU fund policy must align with their existing advocacy for the common agricultural policy and cohesion policy. Member states believe these policies should remain distinct, ensuring that a portion of European funds is allocated to regions and that it remains decentralized,” Raši explained.
He noted that the EP president is “very pragmatic” and seeks solutions with the European Commission to facilitate a vote on the multiannual financial framework. The worst-case scenario would be the non-adoption of the seven-year budget, which would negatively impact all member states.
Regarding energy, with the European Commission promoting the REPowerEU initiative, Raši emphasized that discussions must address energy security and the availability of energy sources. He remarked that this resonates with prime ministers, and Metsola is aware of its importance, not wanting solutions that jeopardize Slovakia’s energy security.
“This is vital for Slovakia. As a landlocked country, we have relied on the transport of energy carriers from Russia through Ukraine. Metsola supports solutions that would enable Slovakia to diversify its sources and gradually reduce reliance on energy imports from Russia without adverse effects,” stated the chairman of the National Council of the Slovak Republic. (November 6)
“Compromises will have to be found. So far, the position of the member states and MEPs is that changes in the EU fund policy cannot be against what they are currently advocating. It is the common agricultural policy and cohesion policy.” Richard Raši
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