The upcoming special summit of the EU, set to occur in Alden Biesen, Belgium, is anticipated to be a pivotal occasion aimed at bolstering the competitiveness of the European Union. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a targeted preference for European products in strategic sectors, highlighting the need for the EU to assert its economic strength in the global market. In contrast, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has a different agenda, focusing on reducing bureaucracy, simplifying digital regulations, and initiating energy price reforms. He believes that without economic clout, the EU cannot play a significant role on the geopolitical stage, especially as elections are looming in several member states next year.