6
Feb
2024
Watch
Conclusions of the European Council meetings, in particular the special European Council meeting of 1 February 2024 (debate)
Madam President, Mr President of the European Council, Mr Vice-President of the Commission, the last European Council once again demonstrated our firmness against the threat of Putin's war, even overcoming Orbán's blackmail in our support of Ukraine. An achievement that is a new test of European unity and determination. However, that same day we saw the streets of Brussels burning with the discomfort of farmers and ranchers, who took out their tractors to protest and show their frustration, more than justified. Some of us have been listening to them for years. I myself have visited all the provinces of Spain – from Orense to Almeria, from north to south – to see on the ground the difficulties of the orchard, extensive livestock farming or olive grove. Their protests remind us of the importance of a just transition to sustainability that leaves no one behind. However, some prefer to keep looking the other way. Many in this plenary are unaware that changes, while necessary, take time. And we all want a more sustainable and ecological future. But let us not forget that ignoring the present of those who work the land can turn their discontent into a force that makes us no longer stop advancing, but even go back. And Europe cannot afford to ignore their demands.