Ahead of today's EU summit, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed the necessity for urgent measures to bolster the EU's competitiveness. Speaking to the press as they arrived at the informal meeting venue in Belgium, both leaders expressed their concerns about Europe lagging behind in global competition, particularly against rivals like the United States and China. Merz articulated a clear urgency for action, stating that Europe must implement strategies to avoid falling further behind in this critical aspect of economic performance.

Macron echoed these sentiments, indicating a shared sense of urgency and underscoring the immediate need for collective action among EU member states. "We must act quickly to strengthen Europe's competitiveness," he asserted, highlighting that discussions during the summit should lay the groundwork for decisive steps in the coming weeks. This informal summit aims to prepare resolutions that can be formally adopted at the next scheduled EU meeting in four weeks, reinforcing the importance of this issue on the European agenda.

The focus on competitive strategies not only reflects the shifting economic landscape but also signals a potential recalibration of EU policies as they address key challenges posed by global powers. Both leaders advocate for a cohesive approach to enhance innovation and resource allocation within the EU, ensuring that Europe maintains its position in the face of significant global competition. The outcomes of this discussion may significantly influence EU policy-making in the near future as they strategize for sustainable growth and economic resilience.