The long discussion that lasted until about 1:15 in the night, far beyond what was expected, was not enough for the leaders of the Twenty-seven to adopt the paragraph of the conclusions dedicated to immigration.
In the afternoon session, however, Ukraine was discussed with the intervention by video link of President Zelensky. Also on the agenda is the situation in the Western Balkans and the summit with the countries of Latin America on 17-18 July.
The summit resumes today at 9.30. The topics that have yet to be addressed are China and the economic situation and economic security strategies.
On Ukraine, the paragraph in which the 27 leaders declare that "The European Union and its member states stand ready to contribute, together with partners, to future security commitments towards Ukraine, which will help Kiev to defend itself in the long term, deter acts of aggression and resist destabilization efforts." .
In this regard, the member countries "they will quickly consider the modalities of such a contribution". “These commitments will be undertaken in full compliance with the security and defense policy of certain Member States and taking into account the security and defense interests of all Member States. The European Council will continue to deal with the matter”, it continues.
The European Council then acknowledges "Ukraine's commitment and substantial efforts to satisfy the conditions required in its EU accession process" and encourages Kiev "to continue on the path of reforms". The European Union will continue to work closely with Ukraine and support its efforts to fully fulfill all conditions.
On Defense "the European Council recalls the need to strengthen the technological and industrial base of the European defense sector and to make it more innovative, competitive and resilient, especially in a new strategic context which requires defense preparation and a significant increase in strategic capability long-term goal of taking greater responsibility for its own defence”.
“In this regard – continues the text of the note – the European Council: calls for work to be carried forward on all strands of action for the joint delivery and procurement of ammunition and missiles, in particular on the law supporting the ammunition production with a view to its rapid adoption; welcomes the agreement reached on strengthening the European defense industry through theJoint Act on public procurement (EDIRP); Calls on the Commission to present a proposal for a European Defense Investment Program (EDIP) to strengthen the capacity and resilience of Europe's defense technological and industrial base, including SMEs".
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