On February 12, an informal meeting was held at the Alden Biesen Castle in Belgium, where European leaders convened to address strategic issues concerning the future of the European Union. The agenda focused on reorganization efforts to make the economy resilient in the face of intense global competition. Key discussions revolved around deepening the single European market, strengthening the technological and industrial base, and prioritizing European products, especially in defense, artificial intelligence, clean technologies, and space sectors.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed a plan aimed at bolstering the single market by March. This initiative includes simplifying and reducing regulations at the national level, along with introducing new regulations intended to foster startup growth. Central to these discussions is also the fight against the fragmentation of capital markets, which has become a significant concern for European economies.

The concrete steps discussed in this meeting could lead to a more integrated and competitive European market, potentially enhancing the economic resilience of the EU member states. By prioritizing European products and innovation, the EU aims to position itself better on the global stage, facing the multifaceted challenges of the 21st century.