14
Jun
2023
Watch
Make Europe the place to invest (debate)
Madam President, I'm sorry. The economic crisis caused by the pandemic, war and sanctions, inflation and America's conscious policy have led to less foreign investment in strategic sectors in Europe in recent years. No wonder, because instead of overseas paradise conditions, what do we offer? Burning energy prices, dependence on raw materials, increasing administrative burden and rules of conduct. European companies do not have time to produce or supply if they want to meet all the requirements. We're pushing for a green transition, but we're educating China, while a solar panel and electric car battery aren't much of a thing in the world without them. We are wasting valuable years until the negotiated free trade agreements are signed. This is the case with the Mercosur and Mexican agreements, which in turn would provide a major business opportunity for companies on both sides. It is particularly painful that the Commission is only verbally pro-SME. Since September, no progress has been made with the relief package for them. The principle of "think small first" or "when all new rules are introduced, an old one will be phased out" exists only on paper. Let Brussels finally give businesses access to the air, otherwise this Commission will enter the history of the Union as having destroyed Europe's competitiveness!