EU leaders push for enhanced competitiveness and single market integration

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized the urgent need to boost EU competitiveness following an informal summit at Alden Biesen, Belgium. Speaking to the European Parliament, von der Leyen stated that competitiveness is fundamental to European prosperity, security, and democracy. The leaders agreed to reach concrete decisions by the March European Council, focusing on reducing strategic dependencies and internal market barriers. Key priorities include completing the Capital Markets Union to provide businesses with easier access to capital and finalizing the Energy Union to lower energy prices. Von der Leyen highlighted initiatives such as the Clean Industrial Deal and specialized action plans for the automotive, steel, and chemical industries. Antonio Costa proposed a 28th regime to allow businesses to operate under uniform rules across all 27 member states. The Commission also signaled a willingness to use enhanced cooperation if unanimous agreement cannot be reached among all members. Additionally, the EU aims to simplify regulations and expand its network of reliable trade partners while maintaining an open but realistic trade policy.