Ahead of the informal European Council meeting scheduled for February 12, a letter from a high-ranking official in Brussels stresses the importance of Europe defending its strategic interests and bolstering its production capabilities. The meeting will take place at Alden Biesen Castle, a historical site associated with the Teutonic Knights, reflecting a blend of medieval identity with modern economic discussions. The choice of venue underscores the seriousness of the discussions while invoking the legacy of the Knights, who were known for their steadfastness and commitment.

The letter implicitly acknowledges the challenges Europe faces in adapting to a new, more competitive, and uneven economic landscape, positioning this adaptation process as both urgent and challenging for the continent's leaders. As European leaders gather in this symbolic setting, the stakes have never been higher; they must confront issues of competitiveness and shared interests, recognizing that unity in this context can help mitigate the difficulties posed by global economic shifts.

This context sets the stage for influential figures like former ECB President Mario Draghi and former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta to address the leaders, sharing their insights and experiences in navigating complex economic dynamics. By doing so, they aim to inspire actionable strategies that can enhance Europe’s resilience and competitiveness on the global stage, moving past any romanticized notions of knighthood to pragmatic approaches to economic survival and success.